2012/13 Social Policy

You must satisfy the General Entrance Requirements for admission to a first degree course and hold a GCSE pass in English Language at grade C or above (or equivalent). The Faculty of Social Sciences will accept Essential Skills Level 2 Communication as equivalent to GCSE English Language.

The Subject Committee will consider a range of qualifications, experience and other evidence of ability to complete the course satisfactorily when considering applications for part-time study.

This course is a 'regulated and/or care position' within the meaning of the Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults (NI) Order 2003 (POCVA) and the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups (NI) Order 2007. It may involve access to children and/or vulnerable adults and is therefore subject to an AccessNI criminal history check, the fee for which is £30.00.

3 years full-time; 5 years part-time.

Attendance
Each module usually involves two hours of lectures plus a one hour seminar each week. In addition, students are required to undertake substantial directed independent learning.

Our Social Policy course will provide you with the opportunity to gain an understanding of the key social policy issues facing modern society (including health, education, poverty, social exclusion, childcare and the care for the elderly, disabled and other vulnerable groups. It considers how social policy is formed and implemented in the UK and through comparisons with other societies as well as in historical perspective. Consideration is given to the political, economic and legal aspects of social policy. Our course will provide you with a combination of theoretical knowledge and a range of skills necessary for employment in a range of public, private and third sector occupations.

Part-time students are required to complete a minimum of one module per semester but can chose to study two per semester if they prefer. The Course Director will work with you at the beginning of your studies to agree an appropriate sequence, based on how many modules you are willing to do per year.

If you reach the required standard in a relevant Diploma course in Further Education, you may apply to enter the second year of the programme. Those who have reached an approved standard in a relevant Dip HE or Foundation or Associate Bachelors degree programme may be permitted to enter the final year. We also welcome students through the APEL route and grant examptions accordingly.

Our Social Policy courses seek to equip you for a variety of careers relating to social policy broadly defined in the public, private and voluntary sectors. They also prepare you for a range of postgraduate opportunities in related fields.

• Programme Specification
• School webpage