MSc Accounting and Finance
The MSc Accounting and Finance program at Aston University provides students with a com...
BSc Politics and Social Policy with Placement Year
Birmingham
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BSc Politics and Social Policy with Placement Year at Aston University offers students a comprehensive understanding of political systems, social issues, and policy-making processes, along with valuable professional experience gained through a placement year in a relevant organization. Students explore topics such as governance, public policy analysis, social welfare, and international relations, gaining insights into the complexities of contemporary political and social challenges. The placement year provides an opportunity for students to apply their academic knowledge in a real-world setting, develop practical skills, and build professional networks, enhancing their employability and preparing them for diverse career paths in public, private, and non-profit sectors.
-
Interdisciplinary Curriculum: The program integrates insights from political science, sociology, economics, and public policy to provide students with a holistic understanding of social and political issues. Courses cover a wide range of topics, including political theory, comparative politics, social justice, and public administration, enabling students to explore diverse perspectives and develop critical analytical skills.
-
Policy Analysis Skills: Students learn how to analyze policies, evaluate their impact on society, and propose evidence-based solutions to complex social problems. Through case studies, research projects, and policy simulations, they develop the ability to assess policy effectiveness, identify stakeholder interests, and navigate political processes to advocate for change.
-
Placement Year Experience: The placement year offers students the opportunity to gain practical experience in a professional setting relevant to their academic interests. Whether working with government agencies, non-profit organizations, research institutes, or international institutions, students apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges, develop professional competencies, and explore potential career paths.
-
Research and Communication Skills: Throughout the program, students acquire research skills, including qualitative and quantitative methods, data analysis, and report writing. They learn how to conduct independent research projects, critically evaluate academic literature, and communicate their findings effectively through written reports, presentations, and policy briefs.
-
Employability and Career Development: Aston University provides comprehensive support for students' career development, including workshops, networking events, and one-to-one guidance from career advisors. The placement year enhances students' CVs, fosters professional networks, and often leads to graduate job offers, providing a valuable stepping stone to successful careers in politics, public administration, social policy, advocacy, and related fields.
Location
Birmingham
Score
IELTS: 6
Tuition Fee
£ 20100
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs at Aston University are required to have achieved a minimum overall percentage of 75% or above in their high school or equivalent qualification.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: An overall score of 6.0 or higher with no individual band below 5.5.
- TOEFL: The overall score 78 with minimum score of 11 in each component is required.
- PTE: The overall score 64 with minimum 59 is required.
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 meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
Aston University offers a range of scholarships and financial support to both domestic and international students. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, support talented students, and promote diversity and inclusion.
Vice-Chancellor's Excellence Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to high-achieving undergraduate students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance. It provides a tuition fee reduction of up to £3,000 per year for the duration of the course.
Aston Business School Scholarships: Aston Business School offers a range of scholarships for undergraduate and postgraduate students pursuing business-related programs. These scholarships are based on academic merit, leadership potential, and other criteria.
Aston Achievement Scholarship: This scholarship is available to undergraduate students who have achieved exceptional results in their A-levels or equivalent qualifications. It provides a tuition fee reduction of up to £2,000 per year for the duration of the course.
Aston Excellence Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to undergraduate students who have achieved outstanding results in their A-levels or equivalent qualifications. It offers a tuition fee reduction of up to £1,000 per year for the duration of the course.
International Ambassador Scholarship: This scholarship is specifically for international students and is awarded based on academic merit and contribution to the Aston community. It provides a tuition fee reduction of up to £3,000 for the first year of study.
The BSc Politics and Social Policy with Placement Year program at Aston University equips graduates with a versatile skill set and deep understanding of political systems and social policy, preparing them for a range of rewarding career paths in public, private, and non-profit sectors.
-
Policy Analyst: Graduates can pursue roles as policy analysts, working for government agencies, think tanks, or consultancy firms. They analyze social issues, evaluate policy effectiveness, and provide recommendations to policymakers based on research and data analysis.
-
Public Affairs Consultant: With expertise in politics and social policy, graduates can work as public affairs consultants, helping organizations navigate regulatory environments, engage with stakeholders, and shape public policy agendas.
-
Social Researcher: Careers in social research involve conducting studies on social issues, gathering and analyzing data, and producing reports that inform policy and practice. Graduates may work for research institutes, NGOs, or government agencies.
-
Public Sector Manager: Graduates can pursue managerial roles within local or national government, overseeing social welfare programs, community services, or policy implementation initiatives.
-
Non-profit and Advocacy Work: Many graduates choose to work for non-profit organizations or advocacy groups, advocating for social change, promoting human rights, or addressing specific societal issues such as poverty, healthcare access, or education reform.
-
International Organizations: Careers in international organizations like the United Nations or European Union are also viable options. Graduates can contribute to global policy initiatives, development projects, or diplomatic missions.
-
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Specialist: Companies increasingly focus on CSR and sustainability. Graduates can work in CSR departments, ensuring corporate activities align with ethical standards and contribute positively to society.
-
Journalism and Media: Some graduates pursue careers in journalism, political reporting, or media analysis, providing insights into political developments and social policy issues through various media platforms.
-
Further Education and Research: Graduates interested in academia or advanced research can pursue postgraduate studies, leading to careers as researchers, lecturers, or scholars in political science, sociology, or public policy.
