BSc (Hons)

Social Policy with Sociology (Belfast Campus)

Learn more about studying Social Policy with Sociology (Belfast Campus) as an international student.

Image reflecting the subject area of Social Studies, relating to the program.
Ulster University university logo

Key facts

  • Program
    Bachelor's
  • Duration
    4 years
  • Program
    On campus
  • Pace
    Full-time
  • Annual tuition fee
    17,010GBP
  • Start date
    Sep
  • University ranking
    #609

Program overview

What Ulster University says about their program:

In an increasingly uncertain and fast-changing world, questions around human need, welfare, inequality and wealth distribution are to the fore of public discourse and affect all our lives. These debates are at the heart of social policy. In studying this degree, students will explore how concerns such as new social risks and precarity are experienced by individuals and communities and addressed by policy. These significant challenges require students to critically engage with historical perspectives and contrasting conceptual approaches. Students will also be expected to develop their understanding of the complexities of policy making and governance at regional, national and international levels.

Graduates have high employment rates, pursuing careers in the public sector, working in local or central government, helping to formulate policy, or manage key services. Some build careers in the voluntary sector and in campaigning organisations with a focus on social issues; others pursue a career in social research methods, as a research assistant or research officer, working as part of a team.

Graduates are well equipped with the skills to work in other areas such as management and research consultancy. Some proceed to further study, pursuing a PhD or one of a range of MSc degrees including Social Policy, Criminology and Health Promotion. This degree may give exemption from some aspects of study for those seeking professional qualifications in housing and health service management, and is a popular route into the fast-track social work qualification.

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Admission requirements

Undergraduate academic requirements

  • Minimum of passes in five subjects, two at A level (grades A-E) or equivalent, and three at GCSE level (grades A-C/4-9) or equivalent.
  • Relevant work experience may also be considered.

Postgraduate academic requirements

  • Hold an Honours degree (2

    2 or above) from a recognized institution.

  • Evidence of competence in written and spoken English (GCSE grades A-C or equivalent).

English proficiency

English proficiency is required; accepted tests include IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent.

English proficiency waivers

Documents required

  • Passport
  • Academic Transcripts
  • Degree certificate or diploma
  • Proof of English proficiency
  • Statement of purpose or personal statement
  • Recommendation letters
  • Finance proof
  • Translations
  • Credential evaluations
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Fees and funding

Ulster University outlines that tuition fees and living costs vary significantly based on the student's location. Students are advised to budget approximately £7,000-£9,000 for expenses during their time at Ulster University.

Fee information

  • Undergraduate tuition

    £16,320 per year

  • Postgraduate Certificate in Education tuition

    £16,320 per year

  • Master's programs tuition

    from £17,090 to £19,130 per year

  • Master's with Advanced Practice tuition

    £21,170 per year

Funding

International Undergraduate Scholarship

- Open to all new international (non-EU) entrants on the first year of a full-time undergraduate course delivered on one of our Northern Ireland campuses, commencing September 2020. - **Amount:** £2,000 scholarship applied as discount to your annual tuition fee.

International Postgraduate Scholarship

- Open to all new international (non-EU) entrants on the first year of a full-time postgraduate course delivered on one of our Northern Ireland campuses, commencing September 2020. - **Amount:** £2,000 scholarship applied as a discount to your tuition fee.

John J Sweeney Scholarship

- The John J Sweeney Scholarship is based at the world-renowned International Conflict Research Institute (INCORE) at Ulster University, and supports students enrolled to study full-time on the MSc in Peace and Conflict Studies , based on the Jordanstown campus (Belfast). - **Amount:** £20,000 that must be used towards the Scholar’s tuition fees. Any balance remaining may be used to purchase study materials/equipment, support course-related activities and/or in support of the Scholar’s living expenses and travel costs.
Illustration of education and financial elements including a graduation cap, trophy, diploma, books, a piggy bank, stacks of cash notes, and coins, representing fees and funding.

What is the cost of living near Ulster University?

Category Cost  (in British Pound Sterling)
Rent, 1-bed apartment in city centre£810
Rent, 1-bed apartment outside centre£651
Utilities (electricity, heating, water, refuse)£81
Internet (60 Mbps unlimited)£34
Mobile phone plan (data + calls)£13Range: £9 to £30· UK average
Monthly public transport pass£64
Monthly grocery basket£149
Coffee shop drink£3
Cinema or cultural event ticket£10
Gym membership£37

Indicative monthly costs per person.

Data sourced from livingcost.org (Crowdsourced) and numbeo.com (Crowdsourced).

Visa requirements for Ulster University

Navigating the visa process is a crucial step in your study abroad journey. Make sure to seek guidance and support to ensure you meet all necessary requirements for your time at Ulster University.