BSc International Social and Public Policy

What makes this course stand out is how much emphasis Bristol places on learning beyond the lecture hall. From your first year, you’re encouraged to connect academic theory with real-world issues—whether that’s through placements, research projects, or international experiences. You won’t just be reading about social policy; you’ll be testing ideas, building practical skills, and applying them in contexts that matter. With Bristol’s global outlook and strong employer links, you’ll graduate confident in both your knowledge and your experience.

Here’s what that looks like in practice:

• Work Placement Unit (Year 2): Gain hands-on experience in the voluntary sector, government, or NGOs through a structured placement arranged by the School for Policy Studies.

• Study Abroad Year (Year 3): Choose to spend a year studying at one of Bristol’s partner universities worldwide, experiencing social policy in a different cultural and political setting.

• Independent Dissertation (Final Year): Undertake your own research project on a topic that inspires you—perfect for developing investigative and critical thinking skills valued by employers.

• Careers Service Opportunities: Access schemes like SME internships, City Challenges, and the Bristol PLUS Award, all designed to build your CV and connect you with employers.

• Cutting-Edge Research Environment: Learn alongside staff who are leading studies in areas like poverty, migration, and urban sustainability, with chances to engage in seminars and policy discussions.

• World-Class Facilities: Benefit from resources such as the Arts and Social Sciences Library, specialist research centres, and digital learning platforms to support every stage of your degree.

Graduates from this programme step into impactful and diverse careers where they can influence policy and social change. Typical roles include civil service policy advisor, international NGO officer, community engagement specialist, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) consultant. The programme’s strong focus on real-world challenges and international perspectives ensures that you graduate with the versatility employers value:

• University services helping you into employment
  • The Careers Service offers lifelong support in CV building, interview prep, and job applications, with access to the MyCareer portal for up to three years after graduation.
  • The Professional Liaison Network (PLN) links you to mentors and organisations across the public, private, and third sectors.
  • Schemes such as the SME Internship Scheme, City Challenges, and the Bristol PLUS Award provide recognised work experience and extracurricular achievements that strengthen your CV.

• Employment statistics & salary figures
  • Around 40% of graduate jobs are open to any discipline, reflecting the adaptability and demand for Bristol graduates.

• University–industry partnerships
  • Connections through the Professional Liaison Network and structured placement schemes give you direct access to charities, social enterprises, government bodies, and SMEs.

• Long-term accreditation value
  • The degree is internationally respected and equips you with interdisciplinary knowledge that is highly transferable across sectors.

• Graduation outcomes
  • Alumni are well prepared for careers in policymaking at local, national, and global levels, foreign affairs, international development organisations, CSR in business, and community-based initiatives.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing your BSc, you can continue your studies with postgraduate pathways such as a Master’s in Social Policy, International Development, Public Policy, or Global Governance, and even progress toward a PhD in Social Policy. Bristol’s research-led teaching and strong School for Policy Studies make it an excellent platform for academic specialisation and advanced research opportunities.