Politics and Social Policy with Year Abroad BA

At Birmingham, studying Politics and Social Policy is about far more than lectures and essays — it’s about learning by doing. From the very start of your degree, you’ll apply what you study to real-world challenges, gain practical experience in policy settings, and develop the skills employers value most. Whether you’re analysing social problems, debating political strategies, or working on collaborative projects, you’ll learn how ideas shape action — and how you can make an impact.

The university offers a range of opportunities and facilities that turn theory into practice, helping you build confidence and professional experience before you even graduate. Here’s how you’ll put your learning into action:

• Work placements and professional modules: Gain hands-on experience by completing a placement with a government agency, NGO, charity, or social policy organisation, where you’ll see how policy decisions are made and implemented.

• Global simulation experiences: Take part in the University’s Model NATO simulation events in cities like London, Washington, or Lisbon — a unique chance to step into the shoes of diplomats, negotiate international agreements, and respond to real-world political scenarios.

• Collaborative projects and case studies: Many modules include group projects where you’ll work with classmates to solve real policy problems, analyse current political issues, and present solutions — developing teamwork, communication, and analytical skills.

• Specialist research centres and institutes: Connect with cutting-edge research through the School of Social Policy’s dedicated research centres, where leading experts work on issues such as social inequality, welfare, migration, and governance.

• World-class libraries and digital resources: Access six major libraries, including the state-of-the-art Main Library and the Cadbury Research Library, as well as a wealth of digital archives and policy databases to support your coursework and independent research.

These experiences mean you’ll graduate with more than just a degree — you’ll leave with the practical skills, professional networks, and global perspective needed to thrive in careers across government, policy, advocacy, and beyond.

Graduates from this degree step into careers where they can make a real difference in society and policy. Many go on to become policy analysts, civil service officers, or work with NGOs and charities, while others take up roles in international organisations and diplomacy. Thanks to the mix of politics and social policy, you’ll graduate with the skills to analyse complex issues, influence decision-making, and drive positive change.

Here’s how Birmingham sets you up for success:

• Personalised career support through the University’s Careers Network, which offers one-to-one advice, employer events, CV workshops, and interview prep.

• A strong reputation with employers: Birmingham is the most targeted UK university by top graduate recruiters, giving you a real advantage in the job market.

• Opportunities to gain experience through professional development modules, Model NATO simulations in cities like Washington DC, London and Lisbon, and other international activities that build your practical skills.

• A degree with long-term value: as part of the prestigious Russell Group, Birmingham’s name carries real weight worldwide, opening doors across sectors.

• Impressive outcomes: graduates from this programme are highly employable, with starting salaries around £30,000 for roles in leading organisations.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’d like to continue your studies, you’ll have plenty of options. Many students move on to a Master’s degree in areas like Public Policy, International Relations, or Development Studies. If research excites you, you could pursue an MRes or PhD in Politics or Social Policy. There are also focused postgraduate diplomas and certificates in fields such as Diplomacy, Human Rights, or Public Administration — perfect if you want to build specialist expertise.