University of Bedfordshire United Kingdom

Social Policy and Social Research BSc (Hons) with Foundation Year

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree With Integrated Foundation Year
Closing soon October 2026

Course Overview

Embark on your academic journey with the Social Policy and Social Research BSc (Hons) with Foundation Year at the University of Bedfordshire, a comprehensive undergraduate degree designed for those passionate about understanding and addressing complex societal challenges. This course delves into the critical debates shaping policy and society in the UK, from the intricacies of the policymaking process and its impact on education, health, and housing, to the profound issues of poverty and inequality. You will develop a nuanced understanding of social research methods, equipping you to analyse data and contribute meaningfully to evidence-based policy development.

Studied full-time on campus over four years, including a foundational first year, your learning experience will be highly interactive and practical. You will engage with units covering everything from modern British society and its political-economic landscape to advanced data analytics for social policy. A key feature is the opportunity for a 300-hour work-based experience in your second year, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge in a professional setting. You will graduate with a strong foundation in social research, data analysis, and policy critique, prepared for diverse career paths in public service, research, and the third sector.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BSc (Hons) program offers a comprehensive exploration of social policy and research methodologies. Across three years, students will engage with critical debates in policy and society, understand the policymaking process, and analyze contemporary issues such as poverty, inequality, and human rights. The curriculum emphasizes practical application through work-based experience and culminates in a significant research dissertation or a change maker project, equipping graduates with the skills to analyze complex societal challenges and contribute to evidence-based policy solutions.

1 Year 1

Career planning for social scientists
Critical debates in policy and society
Modern Britain
The policymaking process

2 Year 2

Poverty and inequality: identity, difference and outcomes
Work-based experience in social policy
Managing and evaluating research projects
Data and research for policymaking

3 Final Year

Governance and stakeholders
Wicked problems in the internet age
Human rights and social policy
SASS change maker project dissertation
Research dissertation

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,708.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,708.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,708.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,708.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 90,834.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 543.00 - USD 1,437.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 3,222.00
Utilities & Bills USD 4,028.00 - USD 5,034.00
Estimated Total USD 8,056.00 - USD 11,278.00

Living cost estimates are based on Luton campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

92%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationAdvertising Finance & OperationsAdvertising TechnologyBanking & Financial ServicesBrand ManagementCorporate Finance & TreasuryCreative Production & Project ManagementHealth Technology & Digital HealthHealthcare ConsultingMarketing Analytics & Data Management

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Accenture

Barts Health NHS Trust

Capgemini

Lahore College for Women University

Luton and Dunstable Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

Microsoft

Ministry of Justice UK

NHS

Why Study Social Policy and Social Research BSc (Hons) with Foundation Year at University of Bedfordshire

What makes this program stand out

October 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in October 2026

Life at University of Bedfordshire 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 Social Policy and Social Research BSc (Hons) with Foundation Year at University of Bedfordshire

Can I work while studying?

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

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English test requirements, you can take the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. For example, TOEFL requires an overall score of 72, while IELTS requires an overall score of 6.0.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue roles such as social researcher, policy analyst, community development worker, and human rights advocate.

What will I actually study in this course?

Through industry-informed teaching and real-world application, this course gives you a firm understanding of key policy areas - from health and housing to criminal justice and human rights – while developing your skills in data-analysis techniques as well as primary and secondary research. Thanks to our practical learning opportunities and collaboration with leading organisations, you graduate with the expertise and confidence needed to address social issues and drive positive change in a

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the Social Policy and Social Research BSc (Hons) with Foundation Year is October. Make sure to complete your application before this date to secure your place.
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