International Social and Public Policy
Clifton Campus, United Kingdom
BSc International Social and Public Policy
University of Bristol
Social Policy
Program Overview: BSc International Social and Public Policy
The BSc International Social and Public Policy at the University of Bristol is a multidisciplinary degree that integrates the analysis of government policy with an understanding of broader global political, economic, and social change. Drawing on disciplines including economics, political science, sociology, behavioural science, and philosophy, the program asks you to compare key ideas and theoretical frameworks across different societies and cultural contexts.
At its core, this degree seeks to explore, analyse, and critically assess contemporary social and public policy issues in and across societies around the world. You will gain major insights into the role of public policy, policy actors, and institutions, as well as an understanding of the development and implementation of policy measures designed to influence the social circumstances of individuals and groups.
The program is housed within the School for Policy Studies, which provides a supportive environment for students to flourish as independent, active learners. You will be taught by research-active lecturers who are passionate about their subjects and who bring the latest findings directly into the classroom, ensuring a vibrant and intellectually stimulating learning experience.
Key Program Highlights
- Multidisciplinary approach drawing on economics, political science, sociology, behavioural science, and philosophy
- International and comparative focus on policy issues across different global contexts and societies
- Optional work placement unit available in the second year for real-world professional experience
- Option to extend to a four-year degree with a year studying at a partner university abroad
Curriculum and Modules
The BSc International Social and Public Policy curriculum is structured to build your knowledge progressively over three years. The first year introduces foundational concepts and theories, the second year explores policy-making and implementation in global contexts, and the final year allows you to undertake independent research through a dissertation on a topic of your choice.
Introduction to International Social and Public Policy
20 creditsThis foundational module introduces key concepts, theories, and frameworks in social and public policy, providing you with the analytical tools needed for the rest of the program.
Comparative and International Social Policy
20 creditsExamines how social policies differ across countries and regions, exploring welfare state models, social protection systems, and the impact of globalisation on policy outcomes.
Policy-Making and Implementation
20 creditsExplores the processes through which public policies are formulated, adopted, and implemented at global, national, and local levels, addressing key public concerns and real-world issues.
International Political Economy
20 creditsAnalyses the intersection of international politics and economics, examining how global economic structures and institutions shape social and public policy across different societies.
Research Methods for Social Policy
20 creditsProvides training in qualitative and quantitative research methods used in social policy analysis, preparing you for independent research and your final-year dissertation.
Dissertation in International Social and Public Policy
40 creditsThe final-year dissertation offers an opportunity to choose a topic for in-depth investigation and independent work, demonstrating your ability to conduct original research in social and public policy.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
The University of Bristol welcomes applications from students of all backgrounds and accepts a wide variety of qualifications. No specific A-level subjects are required for this program, though strong performance in humanities or social science subjects is advantageous. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on how your qualifications align with the entry requirements.
Academic Requirements
- A-Level Standard OfferAAB
- A-Level Contextual OfferBBB
- International BaccalaureateContact Uni4Edu for current IB requirements
- Specific Subjects RequiredNo specific subjects required
- BTEC Extended DiplomaDDD in any Applied General BTEC National Level 3 Extended Diploma
English Language Requirements
- IELTS6.5 overall with 6.5 in all skills
- GCSE English LanguageGrade C or 4
- Alternative QualificationsOther accepted qualifications outlined in Profile Level C; contact Uni4Edu for details
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Bristol offers generous scholarship opportunities for international students through its flagship Think Big Scholarship Programme. These competitive awards are designed to help talented overseas students fund their studies. Contact Uni4Edu for personalised guidance on scholarship eligibility and application support.
Think Big Undergraduate Scholarship
GBP 6,500 per year (up to 4 years)Available to international students with overseas fee status who demonstrate academic excellence. This scholarship is applied towards tuition fees and is renewable for the duration of your program.
Think Big Undergraduate Scholarship (Enhanced)
GBP 13,000 per year (up to 4 years)A higher-value award for outstanding international students in the School for Policy Studies. This competitive scholarship recognises exceptional academic achievement and personal accomplishments.
School for Policy Studies International Scholarship
GBP 13,000 per yearA subject-specific scholarship available for international students studying eligible undergraduate programmes in the School for Policy Studies. Contact Uni4Edu for eligibility details and application guidance.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the BSc International Social and Public Policy are well-prepared for careers in government, international organisations, NGOs, and the private sector. The multidisciplinary nature of the degree equips you with transferable analytical, research, and communication skills valued across many industries. The University of Bristol's dedicated careers service provides bespoke advice and support to help you achieve your professional goals.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employer Sectors
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Bristol is a member of the prestigious Russell Group and consistently ranks among the top universities in the UK and worldwide. Its strong research reputation and teaching excellence are reflected across multiple international league tables, making a Bristol degree highly regarded by employers globally.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Social Policy and Administration | QS World Rankings by Subject | Top 100 |
| Social Sciences | THE World University Rankings | Top 100 |
| Politics and International Studies | QS World Rankings by Subject | Top 100 |
| Sociology | QS World Rankings by Subject | Top 150 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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