A degree in social policy gives you the knowledge and understanding to influence major decisions that affect the community around you

Job options

Jobs directly related to your degree include:

• Charity officer
• Civil Service administrator
• Government social research officer
• Health service manager
• Housing manager/officer
• Local government officer
• Policy officer
• Politician's assistant
• Social researcher

Jobs where your degree would be useful include:

• Chaplain
• Data analyst
• Data scientist
• Detective
• Education administrator
• Human resources officer
• International aid/development worker
• Paralegal
• Police officer
• Public affairs consultant
• Youth worker

Work experience

Some government departments offer sandwich course placements, internships, vacation visits and work experience. These can be a useful way to gain relevant skills and try out working within the Civil Service. Some degree courses offer an optional work placement year to further develop your skills.

Look for opportunities linked to your field of interest. If you would like to work in health service management, for example, approach local NHS authorities and trusts for work experience.

Typical employers

Many social policy graduates find employment in management positions. Within public sector organisations this can include NHS authorities and trusts, the criminal justice system (including the police), local or central government and the Civil Service. In the private sector you could find work within areas such as HR, marketing, retail and banking.

Opportunities also occur in social work and other personal social services work, social and political research organisations and further and higher education institutions.

Skills for your CV

Social policy courses teach a range of skills that are essential for a career in public service, policy or government. You'll be able to research, interpret and evaluate data from social surveys and research publications, and make connections between social policy and the real world.

You also develop other skills that can be used in many careers. These include:

• problem solving using a methodical and organised approach
• analytical skills
• sensitivity to the values and interests of others
• communication, both written and verbal
• teamwork
• the ability to handle numerical data
• proficiency in the use of information technology.