Swansea University

What you'll study

This degree brings together core sociological perspectives with detailed study of social policy and criminology. In early stages you will cover foundational topics such as classical and contemporary sociological theory, social stratification, family and youth studies, and introductions to social policy. Research methods and statistics (both quantitative and qualitative) are taught from the start to give you practical tools for analysing social problems.

As you progress, optional modules allow you to specialise in areas such as crime and deviance, policing and community safety, welfare and benefits policy, health inequalities, comparative social policy and the sociology of work. The programme typically includes a substantial independent research project or dissertation in the final year, enabling you to investigate a topic of interest under academic supervision.

Students are often offered opportunities for applied learning through placement modules, live policy projects or collaborations with local organisations. Teaching is delivered through lectures, seminars, workshops and practical research sessions, and assessment methods include essays, policy briefs, research reports and presentations.

Entry requirements

Applicants need a recognised secondary school qualification (for example A-levels, an international equivalent, or a relevant vocational qualification). Successful candidates usually demonstrate a mix of academic achievement and interest in social issues; some familiarity with essay-based subjects or social science subjects is advantageous. Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to meet the University's English language proficiency standards.

Applicants with relevant work or volunteering experience, or those returning to education, are considered; the programme accepts a range of qualifications and welcomes mature students. If you are unsure whether your qualifications meet the entry requirements, contact the university admissions team for guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates go into a wide range of roles across the public, private and third sectors. Typical career paths include social research and data analysis for think-tanks or universities, policy development and policy analysis for local or national government, community development and advocacy with charities and NGOs, and roles in the criminal justice system such as probation support, victim support or youth justice services.

The degree also provides a strong foundation for further study at postgraduate level (for example in social policy, criminology, social work or research degrees) and for professional training routes into law, policing or social work. Transferable skills in research design, critical thinking, communication and data handling are valued by employers in consultancy, human resources, public affairs and education.

Why study at Swansea University

Swansea University offers research-led teaching in the social sciences with opportunities for small-group tuition and one-to-one supervision for final-year projects. The university has established links with local and regional public services, charities and community organisations, which supports work placements and applied project experience.

The campus provides access to dedicated student support services, modern library resources and facilities for quantitative and qualitative research training. Located on the coast, Swansea combines a compact campus environment with a range of cultural and voluntary-sector organisations in the city and across Wales, giving students both academic and practical routes to engage with contemporary social policy and criminal justice issues.