This programme involves studying courses to the value of 12 units over three years, plus LSE100. Please note that the format of the LSE100 course is under review. The programme introduces students to social policy and the fundamentals of economics. The degree then progresses to more advanced topics and more detailed examination of specialist areas within the respective disciplines. It culminates in the third year with a dissertation in which students use what they have learned through their first and second year courses and specialist options, to conduct independent research in a relevant area.
First year
There are two compulsory social policy courses in the first year, as well as two half-unit mathematics courses and two half unit economics courses. You will also take LSE100 in the Lent term. Please note that the format of the LSE100 course is under review.
(* denotes a half unit course)
Understanding International Social and Public Policy
Gives you a framework for understanding how and why societies have developed a variety of institutional arrangements to provide for their social welfare needs, focusing on key developments in different areas of social policy, such as social security, education, housing, health and social care.
Foundations of Social Policy Research
Examines the role research plays in social policy making and introduces the range of approaches used to understand social problems and policy responses.
Quantitative Methods (Mathematics)*
Develops the basic mathematical tools necessary for further study in economics and related disciplines.
Quantitative Methods (Statistics)*
Develops elementary statistical tools necessary for further study in management and economics.
Microeconomics I*
This course provides a foundation to help students understand key microeconomic questions using a variety of approaches including quantitative methods.
Macroeconomics I*
This course provides a foundation to help students understand key macroeconomic questions using a variety of approaches including quantitative methods.
LSE100
Beginning in the Lent term of the first year and running through the Michaelmas term of the second year, LSE100 is compulsory for all LSE undergraduate students, and introduces you to the fundamental elements of thinking like a social scientist. Please note that the LSE100 course is under review.
Second year
There are six compulsory courses in the second year. You will also continue to take LSE100 in the Michaelmas term. Please note that the format of the LSE100 course is under review.
Comparative and International Social Policy
Examines the distinct challenges of welfare provision faced by mature welfare states and the developing world.
Research Methods for Social Policy
Offers a comprehensive introduction to methods of social research in social policy.
Microeconomics II*
This intermediate-level course will help students understand key microeconomic questions and challenges and also evaluate possible solutions using a variety of approaches including quantitative methods.
Macroeconomics II*
This intermediate-level course will help students understand key macroeconomic questions and challenges and also evaluate possible solutions using a variety of approaches including quantitative methods.
Econometrics I*
Introduction to econometrics to teach students the theory and practice of empirical research in economics.
Econometrics II*
Intermediate-level course to teach students the theory of econometrics and the practice of empirical research in economics.
LSE100
Beginning in the Lent term of the first year and running through the Michaelmas term of the second year, LSE100 is compulsory for all LSE undergraduate students, and introduces you to the fundamental elements of thinking like a social scientist. Please note that the LSE100 course is under review.
Third year
In the third year you will complete a dissertation and will take Public Economics. You choose your final two courses from the options available throughout social policy and economics, or an approved option outside of these Departments.
Dissertation
Students independently research a relevant topic of their own choice and design.
Public Economics
Develops theoretical and applied public economics using intermediate economic theory.
Options to the value of two units from social policy and economics or an approved option from another Department
Where regulations permit, you may also be able to take a language, literature or linguistics option as part of your degree. Information can be found on the Language Centre webpages.
For the most up-to-date list of optional courses please visit the relevant School Calendar page.
You must note however that while care has been taken to ensure that this information is up-to-date and correct, a change of circumstances since publication may cause the School to change, suspend or withdraw a course or programme of study, or change the fees that apply to it. The School will neither be liable for information that after publication becomes inaccurate or irrelevant, nor for changing, suspending or withdrawing a course or programme of study due to exceptional circumstances or events outside of its control, which includes but is not limited to a lack of demand for a course or programme of study, industrial action, fire, flood or other environmental or physical damage to premises.
You must also note that places are limited on some courses and/or subject to specific entry requirements. The School cannot therefore guarantee you a place. Please note that changes to programmes and courses can sometimes occur after you have accepted your offer of a place. These changes are normally made in light of developments in the discipline or path-breaking research, or on the basis of student feedback. Changes can take the form of altered course content, teaching formats or assessment modes. Any such changes are intended to enhance the student learning experience. You should visit the School’s Calendar, or contact the relevant academic department, for information on the availability and/or content of courses and programmes of study. Certain substantive changes will be listed on the updated undergraduate course and programme information page.