International Relations and Social Policy, BSc (Hons), with industry placement

Course summary

Course outlineAs a student on the BSc (Hons) International Relations and Social Policy course, you’ll explore the major political and social issues faced by governments across the world. You will develop a knowledge and understanding of the international state system, the structure and purpose of international organisations, and the roles played by international institutions, other intergovernmental organisations, multinational corporations and NGOs.On the social policy strand of the course, you will investigate the economic, social and political forces which influence government decision-making and develop a detailed understanding of policy-making processes at global, national and local levels of government. You will also explore in-depth, the outcomes and consequences of various government policies on the economy and society. Studying the nature of policy delivery and management by various organisations, such as local governments, schools and businesses, will prepare you for a range of career paths. Important strengths of the programme include its focus on key contemporary issues in international relations and policy, such as global economic change and the environment as well as international comparisons of government policies. During the final year, you will explore more specialised topics through the completion of an individual research dissertation and a range of modules covering topics such as the international relations of East Asia, US foreign policy, and the international relations between post-Soviet Russia, Ukraine and Belarus.Key benefits

• As part of your degree you’ll have the option to undertake a professional placement year, gaining valuable practical experience that employers demand. Aston University’s Careers and Placements team was recognised as the ‘Best University Placement Service’ at the National Undergraduate Employability (NUE) Awards 2022.

• Employed Aston University social policy graduates earn £7,700 (31 per cent) more than the UK average, five years after graduating (Longitudinal Education Outcomes, 2021).

• Social Policy at Aston University was ranked second in the UK for ‘value added’ (Guardian, 2022).

• Social Policy at Aston University was ranked 7th in the UK for ‘graduate prospects’ (Complete University Guide, 2021).

For more information on this course and a full list of modules, visit the course page: https://www.aston.ac.uk/study/courses/international-relations-and-social-policy-bsc/september-2022