Sociology and Social Policy, BSc (Hons)

A Sociology and Social Policy degree at Swansea University provides a strong theoretical base for understanding human behavior within broader social, cultural, political, and economic contexts. Students explore themes of social justice, equality, and citizenship, while analyzing policies in areas like health, education, and poverty. The program emphasizes research skills through qualitative and quantitative methods, alongside developing communication and critical analysis abilities. Swansea's Sociology ranks in the top 15 for teaching quality and top 20 for student satisfaction (Times Good University Guide 2024 and Complete University Guide 2024), with Social Policy ranking top 5 for student satisfaction and top 15 for graduate prospects.The curriculum includes compulsory modules in the first year, such as Sociology: The Classics and Economics in Society, followed by a mix of optional topics in later years, like Poverty and Social Justice, culminating in an independent dissertation. Assessment incorporates exams, essays, group tasks, and presentations, fostering versatile skills. This degree opens doors to careers in youth work, policy development, research, and more, with 92% of graduates employed or in further study within 15 months (HESA 2023). Flexible modules allow customization for personal interests and future aspirations.

Your first year of study is made up of compulsory modules covering a range of themes. Compulsory modules are studied by all students on the programme, meaning you are automatically enrolled. Examples of compulsory modules include: • Sociology: The Classics • Economics in Society • Individuals and Society In your second and third year you will study a mixture of compulsory and optional modules, from an expansive range of subject areas. Examples of optional modules in recent years have included: • Poverty and Social Justice • Sociology of Health and Illness • Criminalisation of Sex • Capitalism and Justice: inequality, power and prosperity in contemporary economies • Social Movements, Social Policy and Social Change Your final year will include a compulsory independent dissertation project. For the full programme structure and module breakdown, please visit our webpage at: https://www.swansea.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/social-sciences/criminology-sociology-social-policy/bsc-sociology-social-policy/