Politics/Social & Public Policy

Politics is the study of the way power and influence are distributed within society and how this affects decision making within and among countries and states. Social and public policy focuses on finding ways to address global and societal challenges such as poverty and inequality, housing, health, technology and sustainability. The programme applies ideas from political science, sociology and economics to understand how governments shape their responses to address people’s needs, welfare and wellbeing.

Why study this course at the University of Glasgow?

You will study a wide variety of topics including courses in international relations and political theory, as well as the politics of a range of areas from the Middle East to Latin America to Europe. You will have the opportunity to take part in our growing study abroad programme. You’ll have the valuable opportunity of a work placement with a voluntary or public sector organisation.

Career Prospects?

Studying Politics will prepare you for a wide variety of careers. You will develop your research and analytical skills, writing abilities, and capacity to communicate effectively. You will be able to attend employability workshops and training days, which will provide you with skills and knowledge, essential for success in the job market. You will also be able to attend alumni careers talks. As a Social Sciences student, you may have the chance to take part in one of our many internship placements.

Popular career destinations for our graduates include the civil and foreign service, local government, the charity sector, international organisations, teaching, business, media and journalism. This degree provides many of the analytical, literary and teamwork skills that employers are looking for. Our graduates pursue careers as managers, professionals and policy analysts in the private, voluntary and public sectors including central and local government, in the UK and internationally. They work in diverse fields including housing, health, social services, advocacy, city planning, education, media and commerce.