Introducing Social Policy

Overview

The module offers a general introduction to Social Policy as an applied academic subject. Students will be encouraged to take a broad perspective on how social policies are implemented by examining political, economic and social perspectives on human needs and wants. The second half of the course introduces social security, taxes, benefits and their implications for citizenship. The course offers a useful entry point to Social Policy; piquing students’ interest in core theories and principles which they will explore in more detail in second and third year social policy modules.

Learning Objectives

• To introduce students to theories, concepts and principles underpinning social policy.
• To provide an applied understanding of the implications of tax and benefits systems for human well-being.

Skills

Development of analytical and evaluative skills; independent learning skills and academic writing skills.

Assessment

None