Explore social justice and welfare issues to understand the key questions and challenges society faces around rights, equality and distribution of resources.
On this course, you’ll learn about the social and political foundations of policies that affect people’s lives. You’ll study the impact social policy has on identity, political organisations, social justice and human rights.
You'll explore the origins and evolution of state-run institutions, and their relationship with the economy and third sector in the UK and beyond. This will increase your understanding of contemporary social welfare issues at local, national and international levels.
Year 1 is your introduction to becoming a social scientist. You’ll explore social change and how social issues become constructed as policy problems. You’ll also learn about the major social, political and economic factors shaping equality and welfare in modern Britain.
In Year 2, you will focus on key policy areas such as the family, poverty, social inequality, and analysis of the policy process. You’ll learn how to evaluate data and information to develop your own arguments for different audiences. You'll also choose from a range of social science optional units.
In your final year, you will do your dissertation, and study the relationship between social research, policy making and governance. You'll also choose from a range of optional units from across the social sciences. These will allow you to build upon the theoretical understanding you’ll gain during Years 1 and 2 and apply it to contemporary sociological issues.
The flexibility of this course will allow you to create a degree that’s tailored to your interests and potential future career.
You’ll learn from teaching staff with diverse backgrounds and expertise in social policy. Their passion, knowledge and research shape their teaching to give you the foundation to become a critical-minded social scientist.
We work to provide you with the skills and support to prepare you for employment and further study. These include:
Many of our social sciences graduates have progressed to work as social and policy researchers, civil servants, international consultants, journalists, and accountants.
They've gone on to work in:
Examples of where our recent Department of Social & Policy Sciences graduates have gone on to work include:
Before you apply for a course, please check the website for the most recently published course detail.
We understand that you will want to know more about the shape of the academic year. We work hard and plan for different scenarios, to be able to welcome you to the University of Bath at the start of each semester.
This course lasts 4 years. It starts in September 2025 and ends in 2029. Welcome week starts on 22 September 2025.
Occasionally we make changes to our programmes in response to, for example, feedback from students, developments in research and the field of studies, and the requirements of accrediting bodies. You will be advised of any significant changes to the advertised programme, in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.
At Bath, our courses are made up of units of study. Compulsory units cover core concepts that you'll need to understand as part of your degree programme. Some of our courses also offer the opportunity for you to study optional units. These allow you to specialise in particular areas of knowledge that interest you.
As an undergraduate, you will be expected to take 120 credits (60 ECTS credits) in each academic year. Credits are usually split evenly across your two semesters of study. 120 credits (60 ECTS credits) are the equivalent of 1,200 notional hours of study; this includes contact time with staff and your own independent learning.
All credits displayed on this page are ECTS credits.
10 credits
10 credits
10 credits
10 credits
10 credits
10 credits
20 credits
10 credits
10 credits
20 credits
60 credits
10 credits
20 credits
30 credits
Doing a professional placement allows you to use what you've learnt in a practical context and enhance your CV. You’ll find out about the organisation you join and how it works, while learning more about potential future careers. Some students have been offered graduate roles following placements.
You’ll develop skills like planning, problem-solving, decision making and project management.
Employers often value placements, so you could gain an advantage in the job market.
We have established links and partnerships with many organisations.
Previous students on similar courses have done their placements with commercial, voluntary or government organisations, or in research settings. These have included:
Placement opportunities can’t be guaranteed but you will receive tailored support from our dedicated placement team.
Read more about doing a professional placementYou’ll be taught and assessed by a variety of methods and it will vary between units. These methods are designed to promote in-depth learning and understanding of the subject.
These lists are to give you an idea of some, but not all, of the learning and assessment methods used on this course. They are not exhaustive lists and methods are subject to change.
Timetabled contact hours, which may be made up of laboratory sessions, lectures, seminars, tutorials and workshops, vary throughout your course and between courses but are typically around 10 hours a week in your first year.
Our teaching for this course is delivered through in-person learning on campus, supported by high quality online provision. The significant majority of contact hours over the duration of your course will be in person, and this will be enhanced by some online delivery which will constitute a smaller proportion of these contact hours, depending on your programme of study, year of study and chosen optional units. This may be supplemented by additional activities such as a small number of online learning sessions (not live), skills development sessions, and personal tutorials.
The amount of timetabled sessions on campus in later years may vary based on the options you choose, with a greater emphasis on independent learning. Project and dissertation units will generally have fewer scheduled sessions to allow you time for your independent work – this may also mean the number of hours of timetabled sessions each week will vary within a year.
In addition to timetabled contact hours, you are expected to undertake independent learning and assessment activities. Typically, this might be around 25 to 30 hours per week in your first year, and include individual and group projects, preparing coursework assignments, presentations, or revising for exams. After your first year, the emphasis on independent learning becomes greater, for example, you may do a final year project in the final year. You’ll be expected to work both on your own and as part of a group.
You will be assessed in a range of methods designed to develop and test your skills and knowledge.
10% to 25% of your course will be assessed through examinations.
75% to 90% will be assessed through essays, reports, and presentations.
The final degree classification is determined by your second and final year marks and each contributes 32% and 68% respectively.
You will primarily be assessed as an individual, but may also be assessed as part of a group.
We can make reasonable adjustments to assessment procedures for students with disabilities, take a look at our Disability Service’s pages for information.
As well as being recognised as a higher academic qualification, a number of our degrees are also accredited by professional bodies in the United Kingdom. An accredited degree may entitle you to work in a specific profession within the UK, and abroad (where there are reciprocating arrangements with professional bodies in other countries).
The requirements to practise a profession vary from country to country. If you wish to practise your profession outside the United Kingdom, you are advised to confirm that the UK professional qualification you seek is valid in the country in which you are intending to work.
‘I think our generation is living in a time when we’re facing big problems. We’re the ones who have to find answers to that.’
Your application, especially your personal statement, should demonstrate your enthusiasm for your chosen degree. This might include relevant reading, voluntary work or additional study, such as a relevant EPQ. When describing your experiences you should reflect on what you have learnt from them, how they have influenced your development or how they are relevant to your future studies.
We know that the context in which you are studying can have an impact on your ability to perform your best in exams and coursework, or limit which subjects or qualifications you are able to study at your school or college. We consider any application based on its merits, including your background and circumstances, including through:
AAB in three A levels.
Read more about our approach to A levels and AS levels.
We accept the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales in place of one A level (unless studied alongside A level Mathematics and Further Mathematics alone). Read more about our approach to this qualification.
BBB or ABC in three A levels.
Our contextual offers were updated in October 2024 for September 2025 entry.
We seek to foster an outstanding and inclusive community at Bath. As part of that, we make reduced contextual offers to applicants from backgrounds who have historically been less likely to join us.
Find out if you may be eligible for a contextual offer.
Contextual offers are automatic - if you receive an offer and meet our eligibility criteria, you will receive the contextual offer instead of our typical or alternative offers.
We accept the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales in place of one A level (unless studied alongside A level Mathematics and Further Mathematics alone). Read more about our approach to this qualification.
We know that you may have study beyond three A levels that will help prepare you for your degree. If you are not eligible for a contextual offer, we recognise these studies through our alternative offers.
ABB in three A levels plus one of:
The Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales is not accepted in place of an A level for these offers. If you are studying three A levels and this qualification you are eligible for an alternative offer:
ABBB in three A levels and the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales
If you receive an offer, you will receive each alternative offer you qualify for alongside the typical offer. You only need to meet one of these sets of conditions to meet your offer overall.
35 points overall and 6, 6, 5 in three Higher Level subjects.
Read more about how we consider the IB Diploma.
We consider applicants studying the IBCP on a case-by-case basis based on the individual IB certificates and vocational qualifications you study within the programme. You will need qualifications equal to at least three A levels to be considered.
Read more about how we consider IB Certificates and common vocational qualifications.
If you are studying IB subjects as part of the IB Diploma, you will usually need to complete the full diploma programme to be considered.
If you do not follow the IB Diploma programme, we can consider stand-alone IB Higher Level Certificates either on their own or combined with other qualifications. You will need qualifications equal to at least three A levels to be considered.
35 points overall and 5, 5, 5 or 6, 5, 4 in three Higher Level subjects.
Our contextual offers were updated in October 2024 for September 2025 entry.
We seek to foster an outstanding and inclusive community at Bath. As part of that, we make reduced contextual offers to applicants from backgrounds who have historically been less likely to join us.
Find out if you may be eligible for a contextual offer.
Contextual offers are automatic - if you receive an offer and meet our eligibility criteria, you will receive the contextual offer instead of our typical or alternative offers.
DDD in the BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (RQF).
We prefer the above qualifications to be in a relevant subject area and are unable to consider qualifications in Public Services, Uniformed Protective Services, Travel and Tourism and other less relevant disciplines.
Read more about our approach to Extended Diplomas.
We accept Level 3 Diplomas and Extended Certificates alongside A levels or in combination with each other. You will need qualifications equal to at least three A levels to be considered.
Read more about how we consider BTEC Diplomas and Extended Certificates.
D*DD in the Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma.
We prefer the above qualifications to be in a relevant subject area and we prefer you to have taken optional units in Sociology and Public Health.
Read more about our approach to Extended Diplomas.
We accept Level 3 Diplomas and Extended Certificates alongside A levels or in combination with each other. You will need qualifications equal to at least three A levels to be considered.
Read more about how we consider OCR Cambridge Technical Diplomas and Extended Certificates.
D overall with grade A in the core component in the Legal Services T Level.
We are able to consider the above T Level technical qualification in Legal Services and prefer applicants to be studying the Legal Services Assistant: Crime, Criminal Justice and Social Welfare specialism.
Suitable applicants progressing via this route will be invited to interview as part the admissions process.
AB in two Advanced Highers.
We make offers based on Advanced Highers. You will typically be expected to have completed five Scottish Highers and your grades in these will be considered as part of your application. We prefer applicants who have achieved at least AAABB in their Highers.
Read more about how we consider Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers
A pass in the Access to HE Diploma with at least 33 credits achieved at Distinction and 6 credits achieved at Merit above. This must include at least 9 credits achieved at Distinction in an essay-based subject.
We accept a range of other qualifications offered in UK, as well as combinations of typically studied qualifications (such as A levels and BTECs). You will need qualifications equal to at least three A levels to be considered.
Read more about how we consider UK qualifications.
You can contact us at admissions@bath.ac.uk for more advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
19 in the Apolytirion plus AB in two A levels.
We cannot accept the Apolytirion unless it is studied alongside A levels. We do not accept Pan Hellenic examinations in place of an A level.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of these qualifications alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course. Please contact us for further advice.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
AAB in three subjects.
We do not accept General Studies as one of these three subjects. We do not accept grade A- in place of grade A or grade B- in place of grade B.
CGPA of 3.3 in the science stream.
A2 in 6 subjects.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
We accept this programme for direct entry and our requirements are the same as for the Ontario Secondary School Diploma. These are listed in the 'Canada' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
5, 5, 4 in three elective subjects or 5, 4 in two elective subjects plus 5 in core English or Mathematics.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
H1, H2, H2, H2, H3, H3 in six subjects from the Irish Leaving Certificate.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
A score of 8.3 overall.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of this qualification alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course. Please contact us for further advice.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of this qualification alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course. Please contact us for further advice.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
We are reviewing our typical requirements for these qualifications for this course and will publish new information soon.
If you have any questions, please contact us at admissions@bath.ac.uk.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Level 3 Diploma achieved with Merit including two Level 3 subjects with 14 credits at Excellence (E) and one Level 3 subject with 14 credits at Merit (M).
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
77666 in five subjects.
We do not accept Life Orientation as one of these five subjects. You will also need a minimum of 3 in Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy).
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
AAB in three H2 level subjects.
3.3 overall.
We accept GCE and International A levels and the IB Diploma whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
5.5 overall with 5.8 in a state matriculation exam (excluding Bulgarian).
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Pass with A in 800 credits and B in a further 1200 credits.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of this qualification alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course. Please contact us for further advice.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
We accept the Indian 12th Standard and our entry requirements are listed under the 'India' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of this qualification alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course. Please contact us for further advice.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
80% average across 5 or 6 grade 12 subjects
The number of grade 12 subjects we require will depend on your province or territory. Subjects with a less academic focus may be excluded.
80% average in a pre-university programme
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
We accept the IB Diploma and our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section. If you are studying a mixture of IB courses and College Board qualifications please contact us for advice.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Due to the variety, structure and grading of these qualifications, applications are welcomed from students with these qualifications but we consider them on on a case-by-case basis. If you are interested in applying, please contact us on admissions@bath.ac.uk for further advice. Please provide copies of your school reports within your email for our consideration.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
An overall average of 17.5 with 18, 18, 17 in three subjects.
Your subject grades will be taken as an average of your school results and external exams where relevant.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
8.75 overall with 90, 90, 85 in three state exams.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
An average of 4 in the common core subjects and an average of 4.6 across six optional programme courses.
These requirements are for the Specialisation in General Studies programme. Please contact us if you are taking a different programme
We consider your grades in final assessment for each subject, or in examinations where you do not have a final assessment for that subject.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
18 in the Apolytirion plus AB in two A levels.
We can often consider applications from students taking the Apolytirion in public schools in Cyprus without any additional A levels. This will depend on your subject stream and the advanced level subjects you are taking. Please email admissions@bath.ac.uk to find out more about our requirements.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
An overall score of 87% in the classical, languages or scientific pathway with 9, 9, 8 in three subjects from your final report card.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
85, 85, 80 in three extended subjects.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
80% and 75% in two Higher subjects plus 5 ,5, 4 in three Standard subjects.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
8.8 overall with 9.0, 9.0, 8.5 in three subjects.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
1.6 overall.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of this qualification alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course. Please contact us for further advice.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
CGPA of 75% with 85%, 80% in two subjects from the final year, with 80% in an essay based subject.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately, we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of these qualifications alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies you may wish to consider a Foundation Year or if you are located here in the UK, explore the qualifications that may be available to you.
Please contact us for further advice on admissions@bath.ac.uk
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of this qualification alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course. Please contact us for further advice.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
5, 5, 4 in three Advanced Placement Tests.
We accept no more than one Calculus AP as one of these subjects. AP Seminar and AP Research are not accepted as one of these AP subjects.
We assess applications from students taking AP examinations on an individual basis.
When assessing your application, we will also be looking for evidence of a high academic standard across a breadth of study, for example through additional AP Tests, your wider school curriculum and SAT or ACT scores if you have taken them.
If you would like advice about your own set of qualifications, please email admissions@bath.ac.uk
If you are unable to take the Advanced Placement tests required above, we may be able to consider your application if you can demonstrate a high level of academic achievement through honours, dual enrolment or equivalent ‘advanced’ level classes on a case-by-case basis. Typically, we would be looking for one honours, dual enrolment or equivalent ‘advanced’ level class in place of each Advanced Placement test.
When assessing your application, we will also be looking for evidence of a high academic standard across a breadth of study, for example through your wider school curriculum and SAT or ACT scores if you have them.
Please send a copy of your high school transcript and details of any pending classes to admissions@bath.ac.uk if you would like to discuss your application.
3.2 GPA
We consider applications from students with Associate Degrees on a case-by-case basis and will carefully review the content of the classes you have studied. We will be looking for a high standard across a breadth of academic study.
Please email admissions@bath.ac.uk with a copy of your university and high school transcripts and details of any pending classes if you would like to discuss your application.
We accept the IB Diploma and our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section. If you are studying a mixture of IB courses and College Board qualifications please contact us for advice.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
An average of 80% across four subjects.
We do not accept Physical Education as one of these four subjects. Other subjects with a less academic focus may also be excluded. Please email admissions@bath.ac.uk if you would like to discuss your subject choices.
These requirements are for the CBSE and CISCE boards. Please contact us if you are taking this qualification with a different board.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
84% overall with 9.0 in one subject.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
14 overall with 15 in one speciality subject in the final year or 13 overall with 15, 14 in two speciality subjects in the final year
13 overall with 15 in one speciality subject in the final year or 12 overall with 15, 14 in two speciality subjects in the final year
By speciality subjects, we mean the subjects studied as 'enseignements de spécialités' as part of the General Baccalaureate. The grade we require is the grade awarded in the speciality subject from the written examinations taken in your final year.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
A weighted average mark of 10.
We may be able to consider your application if you are taking the Højere Handelseksamen (HHX), Højere Teknisk Eksamen (HTX), Højere Forberedelseseksamen (HF). Please contact us to discuss our requirements.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Fees and funding information for Social Policy BSc (Hons) with professional placement
Your tuition fees and how you pay them will depend on whether you are a Home or Overseas student.
Learn how we decide fee statusFee information is not yet available for this course. Tuition fees are liable to increase annually for all University of Bath students.
If you are studying an undergraduate course, you may be able to take out a loan for your tuition fees and living costs.
Read more about tuition fee loansYou could be considered for a bursary or scholarship to help you study at Bath. This is in addition to your student loan and you do not have to pay it back.
Read more about bursaries and scholarshipsYou can pay your tuition fees by Direct Debit, debit card, credit card or bank transfer. You may also be eligible for a student loan to help you pay your fees.
Read more about your payment optionsYou will need to budget at least £100 for the cost of photocopying, printing and binding. You will also need to budget for the cost of textbooks.
Some courses involve visits away from campus and you may be required to pay some or all of the costs of travel, accommodation and food and drink.
If you’re on a placement, you’re responsible for your own travel, accommodation and living costs. You should also consider the financial implications if you go on an unpaid or overseas placement. If you are thinking about studying or working abroad as part of your course, you may have to prove that you have a certain amount of money in your bank account to get a visa. Please read the information about [planning your finances for your placement year](If you’re on a placement, you’re responsible for your own travel, accommodation and living costs. You should also consider the financial implications if you go on an unpaid or overseas placement. If you are thinking about studying or working abroad as part of your course, you may have to prove that you have a certain amount of money in your bank account to get a visa. Please read the information about planning your finances for your placement year which includes potential sources of funding, travel insurance, and visas.
We will usually assess you based on your UCAS application. Very exceptionally we may invite you to an interview if you have circumstances we cannot assess from an application alone.
Our interview page gives more information on what you should expect from an interview.
Learn more about living and studying at Bath
Visit our undergraduate virtual experienceLearn about the range of qualitative social research methods and analytical approaches in social sciences. You will explore key principles and considerations in social research, related to qualitative work, including generalisability, comparability, research ethics, positionality, and conceptualisation. You are encouraged to think creatively, practically and critically about the design and purpose of social research.
Explore many aspects of quantitative social research methods, including:
Explore the fundamental principles of sociological analysis, and trace the emergence of sociology in the 19th century in the context of industrialisation, colonialism, nationalism and social revolution in Europe. You’ll discover how sociology has developed as a way of making sense of key defining features of capitalist modern society, including the formation of social class, new forms of social oppression (gender and race), democratisation of the state and the emergence of the public space.
Examine the factors that shape social change, the impact of social change, and how social scientists have attempted to understand social change with the creation of ‘-isations’ and ‘-isms’. Underpinned by theoretical perspectives throughout, the unit is responsive to the political, economic and social issues and agendas of the day, to ensure that you can see how current social changes are influencing, shaping and defining your life and the world in which you live.
In Year 1, you will study 10 credits of optional units in semester two. You will select one of two 10 credit criminology options, or two 5 credit international development options.
Gain introductory knowledge of the principles of policy analysis and how these are relevant to the study of social action in the contemporary world.
You’ll examine the origins of the policy sciences and how they are linked to wider debates around democracy and social justice. You’ll also study the role of different social factors in policy-making, including the state, the market and the third sector.
Develop a critical understanding of the research process and practice of qualitative data analysis. You’ll gain the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to undertake qualitative data collection and analysis, and present your research findings. You’ll learn about the typical processes involved in designing and carrying out research involving qualitative data.
Develop your knowledge, practical skills and competence in analysing quantitative data.
You'll study key topics such as:
You will study a total of 20 credits of optional units. This will consist of either all-year 10 credit options or single semester 5 credit options. Topics will cover a range of areas within criminology, sociology, social policy and international development such as:
You’ll also be able to choose from a broad range of units covering topics such as politics, education or psychology.
You can choose to go on a professional placement. This is an opportunity to enhance your CV, gain valuable new skills, or try out a career option.
Gain a critical overview of the relationship between social research, policy making and governance as well as policy analysis approaches. Develop the knowledge and skills that enable you to understand and apply these approaches to different public policy issues at different levels of analysis, such as national, international, regional (e.g. EU), sub-national and different aspects of policy (discursive, institutional, relational).
Develop and complete your own Social Policy project. You will apply knowledge and skills culminating in a coherent, long-form piece comprising a set of interrelated components. The dissertation involves all key stages of a small-scale research project. You will identify a relevant research question, survey a corresponding research field, select appropriate research design and methods, and collect and analyse materials. Dissertation work is independent, supported by an academic supervisor.
In your final year, you will study a total of 30 credits of optional units. These can either be all-year 10 credit options or single semester 5 credit options. Topics will cover a range of areas within criminology, sociology, social policy, international development such as:
You’ll also be able to choose from a broad range of units covering topics such as politics, education or psychology.
You’ll study these optional units alongside your dissertation.
Social problems, social change and the state
Analyse how social policy responds to social problems encountered by societies across the world.
You’ll practice how to succinctly report social problems to decision-making audiences.