BA (Hons) Sociology and Social Policy

The BA (Hons) Sociology and Social Policy program at the University of Stirling provides students with a deep understanding of the social structures, policies, and issues that shape societies. This interdisciplinary program combines insights from sociology and social policy to analyze social phenomena, inequalities, and welfare systems, preparing students for careers in various fields related to social research, policy analysis, and community development.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Sociology and Social Policy program covers a wide range of topics, including sociological theory, research methods, social policy analysis, welfare state theories, and contemporary social issues. Students explore topics such as poverty, inequality, health, education, housing, and social justice, gaining critical insights into the factors that influence social policy decisions and their impacts on individuals and communities.

Research Focus: Research is a central component of the BA (Hons) Sociology and Social Policy program at the University of Stirling. Students learn research methodologies, data analysis techniques, and critical thinking skills to conduct independent research projects on social issues and policy challenges. They have opportunities to explore topics of interest, contribute to ongoing research initiatives, and engage with real-world social problems.

Industry Engagement: The University of Stirling emphasizes industry engagement within the BA (Hons) Sociology and Social Policy program. Students benefit from guest lectures, seminars, and workshops delivered by practitioners, policymakers, and experts from government agencies, non-profit organizations, and research institutes. They also have opportunities for internships, placements, or project-based work to gain practical experience and build professional networks in relevant sectors.

Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Sociology and Social Policy program incorporates a global perspective into its curriculum. Modules cover international social issues, comparative welfare state analysis, globalization, migration, and human rights. Students examine how social policies differ across countries and cultures, explore global challenges such as poverty and climate change, and consider alternative approaches to addressing social problems.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 65% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 78, with at least 17 in Listening, 18 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, and 17 in Writing.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 60 with no individual score below 59.
• Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that entry requirements may vary across different programs and courses. Additionally, meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as the number of available places and competition for certain courses.

The University of Stirling offers a range of scholarships to support students in their academic journey. 

Undergraduate Scholarships: The university provides several scholarships specifically for undergraduate students. These scholarships are awarded based on various criteria such as academic merit, financial need, and specific subject areas. Examples of undergraduate scholarships include the Stirling Undergraduate Merit Scholarship and the Stirling Undergraduate Support Scholarship.

International Scholarships: The university provides scholarships specifically for international students, recognizing their contributions to the diverse academic community. These scholarships may cover partial or full tuition fees and are awarded based on academic merit and other eligibility criteria. Examples of international scholarships at the University of Stirling include the International Undergraduate Scholarship and the International Postgraduate Award.

Graduating with a BA (Hons) Sociology and Social Policy degree from the University of Stirling opens up diverse career opportunities in various sectors where knowledge of social structures, policies, and inequalities is valued. 

Social Researcher: Graduates can work as social researchers, conducting studies to investigate social phenomena, trends, and inequalities. They collect and analyze data, conduct interviews, and prepare reports to inform policy decisions, program evaluations, and social interventions. Social researchers may work for government agencies, research institutes, or consulting firms.

Policy Analyst: Policy analysts analyze social policies, evaluate their effectiveness, and make recommendations for improvements. They assess the impact of policies on individuals and communities, conduct cost-benefit analyses, and identify alternative policy options. Policy analysts may work for government agencies, think tanks, advocacy organizations, or non-profit organizations.

Community Development Worker: Graduates can pursue careers as community development workers, working with communities to identify needs, assets, and priorities. They facilitate community initiatives, organize events, and mobilize resources to address social issues such as poverty, housing, and health disparities. Community development workers may work for local authorities, non-profit organizations, or community-based groups.

Social Policy Advisor: Social policy advisors provide expertise on social policy issues to government agencies, NGOs, or advocacy groups. They analyze social trends, conduct research, and develop policy recommendations to address societal challenges such as unemployment, inequality, or homelessness. Social policy advisors may also engage in lobbying and advocacy efforts to influence policy decisions.

Human Services Administrator: Graduates may work as human services administrators, overseeing the delivery of social services such as welfare programs, housing assistance, or healthcare services. They manage budgets, coordinate programs, and ensure compliance with regulations and policies. Human services administrators may work for government agencies, social service organizations, or healthcare providers.

Non-Profit Manager: Non-profit managers oversee the operations of non-profit organizations that address social issues such as education, healthcare, or poverty alleviation. They develop strategic plans, manage budgets, and oversee fundraising and program implementation. Non-profit managers may work for charities, advocacy groups, or international NGOs.

Policy Advocate: Policy advocates work to influence public policy decisions on behalf of marginalized or disadvantaged groups. They conduct research, build coalitions, and engage in lobbying efforts to advocate for policy changes that address social injustices or promote human rights. Policy advocates may work for advocacy organizations, trade unions, or grassroots campaigns.