BSc Hons Politics and Sociology

This degree is all about connecting theory with real-world experience. At Surrey, you won’t just study politics and society from a textbook — you’ll learn how to research, analyse, and solve real issues the way professionals do. From hands-on training with research tools to placements with government bodies and NGOs, the course is built to help you graduate with practical skills and confidence to step into your career.

Here’s how Surrey brings learning to life:

• Professional Training Year (PTY): You have the option to take a paid placement year with organisations such as NGOs, government departments, MPs’ offices, or private companies. It’s a chance to apply what you’ve learned, build professional contacts, and explore potential career paths before you graduate.

• Research-led learning with real data: Modules like Researching the Social World and Making Public Policy: Theory and Practice teach you how to collect, analyse, and present data using real-world case studies — and you’ll also gain hands-on experience using the R software for quantitative research.

• Simulation and negotiation exercises: Classes include practical projects where you’ll step into the role of policymakers or political actors, debating, negotiating, and making decisions on complex social issues.

• Access to cutting-edge research centres: You’ll benefit from Surrey’s research hubs such as the Centre for Britain and Europe (CBE), the Centre for Research in Social Simulation (CRESS), and the Centre for Criminology, giving you exposure to groundbreaking work and even opportunities to get involved.

• State-of-the-art facilities and resources: With excellent library support, dedicated study spaces, and specialist software access, you’ll have everything you need to explore your ideas, conduct independent research, and develop your skills.

These experiences make sure you graduate not only with academic knowledge but also with the practical know-how employers are looking for — whether you choose to work in policy, research, communications, or beyond.

A degree in Politics and Sociology from Surrey opens up a world of career possibilities. With a strong mix of analytical, research, and communication skills, you’ll be ready to work in government, policy, communications, non-profits, research, or the private sector. Graduates from this course have gone on to roles such as Policy and Campaigns Officer, Communications Manager, Press Officer, and Senior Executive Officer — helping shape decisions and drive change in society.

Here’s how Surrey helps you get there:

• Expert career support: Surrey’s Careers and Employability Service is there for you from your first year and for up to three years after graduation. They offer tailored advice on CVs, job applications and interviews, and connect you directly with employers through workshops, networking events, and career fairs.

• Strong employment outcomes: 95% of Sociology graduates and 92% of Politics and International Relations graduates from Surrey are in work or further study within 15 months of finishing their degree.

• Outstanding placement opportunities: During your optional Professional Training Year, you could work with organisations like Amazon, the UK Home Office, the Department for Environment and Rural Affairs, the House of Commons, the UN Development Office, or Citizens Advice — gaining real-world experience and valuable industry contacts.

• Long-term career value: While this degree isn’t tied to a specific accreditation, the skills you gain — from policy analysis to social research and communication — are widely respected by employers across sectors. Surrey’s high student satisfaction scores and strong subject rankings give your degree extra weight on the global stage.

• Diverse graduate destinations: Alumni work in a wide range of areas, including public service, NGOs, media, communications, research, policy think tanks, and government agencies.

Further Academic Progression:
After your degree, you can take your studies even further with a Master’s in Public Policy, International Relations, Sociology, Human Rights, or Comparative Politics. If research is your passion, you could continue to a PhD, or specialise in areas like social data analysis, public affairs, or political consultancy — giving you a strong platform for leadership roles and academic careers.