University of Bristol United Kingdom

BSc International Social and Public Policy

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BSc International Social and Public Policy at the University of Bristol is designed for those seeking to understand and address complex global challenges through informed policy. You will delve into critical issues such as inequality, development, and governance, drawing on disciplines like sociology, political science, and economics. This undergraduate degree equips you with the analytical frameworks to critically assess policy interventions across diverse geographical and cultural contexts, preparing you for a career dedicated to positive social change.

This full-time, on-campus degree is studied over three years, providing a comprehensive exploration of social research methods, public policy analysis, and international political economy. You will engage with a range of optional units, allowing you to specialise in areas like health policy, development, or criminology, and undertake a significant dissertation in your final year. You will graduate with the skills to analyse policy, understand its impact, and contribute to shaping more equitable and effective public services worldwide.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BSc program in International Social and Public Policy provides a comprehensive exploration of social and public policy across different international contexts. Students will develop critical skills in policy analysis, research methods, and theoretical frameworks, engaging with global challenges and historical perspectives. The curriculum progresses from foundational concepts to advanced research, including a dissertation, covering diverse topics such as international political economy, development, health policy, and social justice.

1 Year 1 (Level 4 - Certificate of Higher Education) - Total: 120 Credit Points

Comparative and International Policy Studies Compulsory
Critical Skills for Social Scientists: (International Social and Public Policy) Compulsory
Key Concepts, Theories and Ideologies in Social Policy Compulsory
Global Challenges Compulsory
Social Policy Past and Present Compulsory
Segregation and Inequality in International Perspective Elective
Collective Action and Policy Change Elective

2 Year 2 (Level 5 - Diploma of Higher Education) - Total: 120 Credit Points

Social Research Methods Compulsory
Understanding Public Policy Compulsory
International Political Economy and Social Policy Compulsory
Social Policy and Development Elective
Health Policy in a Global Context (SPS) Elective
Work and Work Placement: International Social and Public Policy Elective
Theorising Social Welfare Elective
Corporate Power, Corporate Crime and Corporate Harms Elective
Globalisation, Crime, Harm and Justice Elective
Activist Criminology and Social Policy Elective
Colonialism, Sexual Offences and Law Elective
Youth, Sexualities and Gendered Violence Elective
Punishment in Society Elective
Education Policy in International Perspective Elective
Global Policing Elective

3 Year 3 (Level 6 - International Social and Public Policy (BSc)) - Total: 120 Credit Points

Dissertation (International Social and Public Policy) Compulsory
Cities and Public Policy Elective
Critical Studies of Harm, Violence, and Oppression Elective
Gender based Violence Elective
Climate Emergency Elective
Childhoods in a Global Context Elective
Global Illicit Drug Markets Elective
Quantitative Data Analysis for Policy Research Elective
Violence, Migration and Borders Elective
Inequalities in Health, Poverty and Development Elective
Work, Employment, and Society Elective
Social Policy in East Asia Elective
Leisure, Pleasure and Harm Elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,468.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,468.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,468.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 103,405.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,285.00 - USD 2,164.00
Food & Groceries USD 1,048.00 - USD 1,402.00
Transport USD 355.00 - USD 693.00
Utilities & Bills USD 10,471.00 - USD 13,967.00
Estimated Total USD 11,874.00 - USD 16,062.00

Living cost estimates are based on Clifton campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

95%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Biotechnology & GenomicsCommercial & Industrial ConstructionCorporate Training & DevelopmentEarly Childhood & Primary EducationHealth Technology & Digital HealthHealthcare ConsultingIT Support & Systems AdministrationMental Health & CounselingPolice & Public SafetyVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

European commission

North Bristol NHS Trust

United Nations

University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust

University of Exeter

Why Study BSc International Social and Public Policy at University of Bristol

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Bristol in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BSc International Social and Public Policy at University of Bristol

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed for degree-level courses.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you can submit scores from TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. For example, TOEFL requires an overall score of 88, while IELTS demands a minimum score of 6.5 in all sections.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Policy Analysts, Social Researchers, Public Affairs Consultants, or Project Managers.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course explores the dynamics of social and public policies and integrates disciplines such as economics and political science. Students will learn to critically assess contemporary policy issues in various cultural and geographical contexts.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BSc International Social and Public Policy program begins in September. Make sure to apply in advance to secure your spot.
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