Social and Public Policy

Social and public policy is the study of how societies identify problems and try to solve them. It examines the development and effects of policy in areas such as health, education, housing, poverty, employment, welfare, and social care, asking why things are the way they are, how they got that way, and what could be done differently. It draws on sociology, economics, political science, and social research methods to produce graduates who can both analyse policy critically and engage constructively with the institutions that make and implement it.

At the University of York, this four-year programme includes a year in industry between the second and final year of study, giving you a substantial period of professional experience in a policy, public sector, or social organisation before you complete your degree. During your years of academic study, you will explore the causes of social problems and examine how different societies, including the UK and comparative international cases, have attempted to address them. You will develop skills in social research, quantitative and qualitative analysis, and the clear communication of evidence and argument that policy roles demand.

Returning from the industry year, you bring direct professional experience that enriches your final year study and makes your career prospects significantly stronger. The typical entry tariff is 136 UCAS points.

Graduates work in the civil service, local government, public health organisations, charities and voluntary sector bodies, think tanks, housing associations, and consultancies working on social issues. The combination of rigorous analysis and direct professional experience that the year in industry provides is particularly valued by these employers. Many graduates also go on to postgraduate study in social policy, public administration, social work, or related disciplines.