This degree programme takes stock of the developments and relates them to social, economic and political factors. Theoretical perspectives and methodological implications are introduced. A range of contemporary social policy issues will be discussed. Policies and practices within and across societies are compared. Ethical dimensions of social policy will be pointed out and specialist research training provided. The welfare and health sectors form the primary field of employment for graduates. Other areas of the public service also attract social policy graduates. A PhD can lead to a career in teaching and research. Apart from this, a social science qualification opens up a multitude of job opportunities related to politics and the media, or for business and social enterprises. Students can exit at Postgraduate Certificate or Postgraduate Diploma level.