Sociology and Social Policy

The Sociology and Social Policy degree at Middlesex University offers students a comprehensive understanding of the complex social structures, institutions, and issues that shape contemporary society. This program is designed to equip students with the critical analytical skills needed to examine social phenomena, interpret social data, and contribute to solutions for social challenges. Throughout the course, students will explore a wide range of topics including inequality, social justice, public policy, community development, and the impact of globalization. The curriculum combines theoretical frameworks with practical applications, enabling learners to connect academic concepts to real-world issues and policy contexts. Emphasis is placed on developing research skills, including qualitative and quantitative methodologies, which are crucial for evaluating social trends and informing policy decisions. The program also encourages students to critically assess the effectiveness of existing policies and to envisage innovative approaches to social problems. Through lectures, seminars, case studies, and research projects, students will engage with current debates and diverse perspectives within sociology and social policy. Middlesex University's diverse and inclusive environment fosters collaborative learning, preparing students for careers in public sector agencies, non-governmental organizations, research institutions, and international organizations. The degree provides a solid foundation for further academic pursuit or professional development in areas related to social justice, community work, policy analysis, and advocacy. Graduates will emerge with the ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and apply sociological expertise to make a positive impact in society. The program is suitable for students interested in understanding social issues deeply and wanting to influence change through policy and community engagement, offering a stimulating and rewarding academic experience that prepares them for dynamic career paths.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 11200 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

What will you study?

As well as a strong grounding in sociology, students benefit from specialist training in research design, data analysis, approaches to programme design and evaluation, combined with a focus on the challenges and possibilities associated with contemporary welfare systems.

Students also have the opportunity to focus on specific areas of social policy such as migration, social change and social enterprise, youth and housing issues, public health and the criminal justice system, where ideas are tested, explored and developed through field visits, volunteering and placements.

What will you gain?

This course is designed to blend theory with practice in a manner designed to equip students with top quality analytical and practical skills. A grounding in contemporary sociology in combination with sites of social policy will enable students to make specific insights into society and develop a range of skills that will stand out in the job market.

Teaching and Learning

The course is taught through lectures, seminars and workshops, and integrates field visits, volunteering and placements, with extensive first-hand experience of working with practitioners in different settings.

The course also attracts world-class scholars and practitioners, who will engage with students on a regular basis.

Assessment

The course involves a range of assessment, reflecting different ways of learning. These include essays and reports, verbal presentations and posters, data analysis using SPSS, analysis of interviews and visual data (film and photography) using nVivo, as well as analysis of large data sets.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

We normally make offers on 260 UCAS tariff points. GCSE English and Maths with a minimum of Grade C is required. BTEC National Diploma/International Baccalaureate/Advanced Progression Diplomas are also accepted. We accept Access to HE Diploma. Applications from mature candidates without formal qualifications are welcome provided they can demonstrate appropriate levels of relevant ability and experience.

International entry requirements

We accept the equivalent of the above in a recognised overseas qualification. To find out more about the requirements from your country, see further information under . For details of other equivalent qualifications that Middlesex accepts see .

English language requirements

You must have competence in English language and we normally require Grade C GCSE or an equivalent qualification. The most common English Language requirement for international students is IELTS 6.0 (with minimum 5.5 in all four components).

Middlesex also offers an (Pre-Sessional) that ranges from 5-17 weeks depending on your level of English. Successful completion of this course would meet our English language entry requirements. For more information on applying for the pre-sessional please email english@mdx.ac.uk.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than Middlesex University.

The Sociology and Social Policy program at Middlesex University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of societal structures, social issues, and policy-making processes. The curriculum explores key concepts in sociology, including social inequality, culture, identity, and social change, while also examining the development and implementation of social policies that address contemporary challenges such as poverty, discrimination, and social justice. The program is designed to equip students with critical thinking, research skills, and practical knowledge necessary for careers in social research, policy analysis, community development, and related fields.

Students will engage in a variety of teaching and learning methods, including lectures, seminars, case studies, and research projects, enabling them to develop both theoretical insights and practical skills. The course emphasizes analytical and empirical methods, preparing graduates to interpret complex social data and contribute to policy discussions. Throughout the program, students have opportunities for placement learning, allowing them to gain real-world experience in social services, government agencies, NGOs, or research organizations.

The program’s structure includes core modules such as Sociological Perspectives, Policy Practice, and Research Methods, complemented by optional modules that allow students to tailor their studies toward specific interests like youth work, community development, or social inclusion. Assessment methods are varied and include essays, reports, presentations, and research projects, designed to develop a broad range of academic and professional skills.

Graduates of the program are well-equipped for employment in various sectors, including social services, educational institutions, government departments, and NGOs. Many students also choose to pursue postgraduate study or research in related disciplines. Middlesex University's engagement with industry professionals and emphasis on real-world applications ensure that graduates are prepared for the dynamic landscape of social policy and sociology. The university’s investment in modern facilities, dedicated academic staff, and active partnerships with external organizations provides a supportive environment for student success. Overall, the Sociology and Social Policy program aims to produce informed, reflective, and socially responsible graduates capable of contributing positively to society.