Social and Political Sciences BA (Hons)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Birkbeck University of London

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Social and Political Sciences at Birkbeck offers an exciting, interdisciplinary journey into how societies function, how politics influences change, and how individuals and communities shape the world around them. The course blends sociology, human geography, political economy, criminology, and more — perfect if you’re curious about real-world issues, passionate about understanding public policy and political action, and aiming for a career where social and political insight truly matters.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
You’ll start with core modules such as Foundations of Social and Political Science, Key Concepts: Global Foundations in Sociology, and Transformations in Modern Politics: Democracy, Conflict and Globalisation. These courses introduce you to the big ideas and frameworks that underpin the social and political sciences, helping you develop critical thinking and analytical skills essential for understanding today’s complex societies and power structures.

Year 2:
In your second year, you’ll explore more specialised topics through modules like Governing by Numbers and The Self, Society and the State, alongside a range of optional modules such as Borders, Migration and Development or The Politics of Knowledge: Sociology and the World. This is where you’ll begin to apply theory to real-world problems, deepen your understanding of political and social systems, and start identifying your own areas of interest.

Year 3:
Your final year focuses on independence and professional development. You’ll take modules such as Doing Political and Social Research and Human Rights and Politics, and you’ll complete either an independent research project or an industry placement/career development report. This capstone experience allows you to investigate a topic you’re passionate about while putting your analytical and research skills into practice.

Focus Areas

Politics and International Relations
Sociology
Human Geography
Political Economy
Criminology
Psychosocial Studies

Learning Outcomes

By the end of your degree, you’ll be able to think and work like a social and political scientist — analysing systems, critiquing theories, designing and conducting your own research, and understanding how political and social institutions shape everyday life and global challenges.

Professional Alignment

The degree is awarded by the University of London and delivered at Birkbeck. While it isn’t linked to a specific professional body, it fully meets UK higher education quality standards and is recognised internationally for academic excellence.

Reputation and Employability

Birkbeck graduates are highly regarded by employers. The university ranks among the top UK institutions for graduate earnings — with one study reporting the eighth highest median salary five years after graduation. Around 95% of Birkbeck students are in work or further study within six months of completing their degree, reflecting the strong career value and practical relevance of a Birkbeck education.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

If you’re thinking about studying the BA (Hons) Social and Political Sciences at Birkbeck, University of London, you’ll be pleased to know that the course goes well beyond classroom learning. It’s designed to give you hands-on, practical experience and the chance to develop skills that truly prepare you for the real world — all while studying in the heart of London. From day one, you’ll take part in interactive lectures and seminars, engage in independent research, and use digital tools that help you analyse social and political challenges and propose meaningful solutions. You’ll also benefit from Birkbeck’s close ties with research institutes and policy communities, connecting your studies directly to current debates and real-world practice.

Here’s how you’ll gain those experiential learning opportunities in action:

Interactive seminars and group work – Learning at Birkbeck isn’t about sitting through long lectures. You’ll take part in lively discussions, debates, and group projects that help you develop communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills while engaging deeply with the material.

Independent research project – In your final year, you’ll design and conduct your own research project on a topic that inspires you. This is your chance to apply both qualitative and quantitative methods and to produce a piece of original work that reflects your interests and growing expertise.

Virtual learning environment and digital tools – Through Birkbeck’s Moodle platform, you’ll access lecture materials, reading lists, and assessments anytime, anywhere. It’s a flexible, user-friendly system that supports your studies and helps you stay connected and organised.

Access to research institutes and policy events – You’ll be part of an intellectually vibrant community, with access to Birkbeck’s research centres such as the Centre for British Political Life, the Birkbeck Institute for Social Research, and the Institute for Crime and Justice Policy Research. These institutes regularly host guest speakers, seminars, and public events, giving you direct exposure to current policy issues and debates.

Flexible study options – One of Birkbeck’s greatest strengths is its flexibility. With both full-time and part-time options — including evening classes — you can balance your studies with internships, volunteering, or work experience across London’s policy, social, and cultural sectors.

Progression & Future Opportunities

If you join the BA (Hons) Social and Political Sciences at Birkbeck, University of London, you’ll graduate ready to take on roles such as policy analyst, NGO research officer, community organisation lead or journalist — roles that let you make an impact in public administration, international organisations or social enterprise.

Progression & Future Opportunities

At Birkbeck, you’ll have full access to the Careers and Enterprise Service, which offers free career support, exclusive job portals, micro-placements, employer networking events and one-to-one mentoring. It’s designed to help you connect your academic learning directly to your professional goals.

Graduates from Birkbeck’s programmes enjoy strong employment outcomes, with around 85% in work or further study within 15 months of graduating — a testament to the university’s strong links with employers and its focus on real-world skills.

You’ll also benefit from the School of Social Sciences’ close ties with leading research institutes such as the Centre for British Political Life and the Institute for Crime & Justice Policy Research. These connections give you opportunities to engage with live policy issues, government initiatives, activism and cutting-edge social research.

Birkbeck’s global partnerships — including its links through the Open Society University Network — support international mobility and help ensure your degree is recognised and respected around the world.

The degree’s interdisciplinary foundation in politics, sociology, international relations and human geography gives you a rich blend of analytical, research and communication skills. You’ll graduate with highly transferable strengths such as data interpretation, critical thinking and policy evaluation — assets that open doors across sectors.

Further Academic Progression

After completing your BA, you might choose to specialise further with a master’s degree in areas like Public Policy, Social Research, International Relations or Criminology. Many graduates also go on to pursue PhD study or professional qualifications in public administration, policy analysis or NGO leadership, continuing to build on the foundation you’ve established at Birkbeck.