Public administration and social policy : Your skills

Public administration and social policy courses teach a range of skills that are essential for a career in public service, policy or government. They provide you with the opportunity to:

• find, use and evaluate qualitative and quantitative data derived from social surveys and research publications;
• use established theories and concepts of social policy to analyse how social needs, problems and policies are constructed and understood in various contexts;
• undertake investigations into social issues, involving the use of various skills to identify a problem and collect, store, manage and manipulate data;
• construct coherent, salient and reasoned arguments;
• present clear conclusions and recommendations.

Studying public administration and social policy also allows you to develop a range of transferable skills that are sought after by employers in a variety of professions. These include:

• problem solving using a methodical and organised approach;
• research skills;
• evaluation and analytical skills;
• sensitivity to the values and interests of others;
• communication - both written and verbal;
• teamwork;
• the ability to handle numerical data;
• proficiency in the use of information technology.

Some students undertake sandwich courses that include a work placement. This experience helps to develop skills such as commercial awareness, which is becoming increasingly sought after by employers.

Consider the skills developed on your course as well as through your other activities, such as paid work, volunteering, family responsibilities, sport, membership of societies, leadership roles, etc. Think about how these can be used as evidence of your skills and personal attributes. Then you can start to market and sell who you really are, identify what you may be lacking and consider how to improve your profile. Take a look at job application advice for some useful tips.