Birkbeck, University of London

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND PUBLIC POLICY (BSC)

This dynamic, award-winning programme will provide you with the theoretical knowledge and practice-based skills to develop or advance a career in community work. Communities and charities are at the forefront of current policy and cutting-edge thinking around democratic and social renewal. The sector is also undergoing a transformation through its enhanced role in welfare delivery at a time of austerity and increased demand for its services.

You will learn about the latest theoretical and policy developments in the areas of community development and public policy, including the Big Society agenda. You will critically reflect on these issues and the role of community development in public policy, focusing particularly on governance, citizenship, equality and diversity, partnership working and community engagement. You will also develop practical skills in project management, leadership, policy analysis and evaluation. This course is designed for anyone working with, or who has an interest in, communities.

You will be taught by, and engage with, academic experts and practitioners from a range of community, voluntary and local government organisations and backgrounds.

This course is based at our Stratford campus, though some option modules can be taken at our campus in central London. The programme is also available for part-time evening study over four years.