Social Science BA (Hons)

This foundation programme is designed for students who don’t have the standard entry requirements. If you feel you missed out on education and want the opportunity to realise your potential, this course will give you a firm grounding in the social sciences and prepare you to progress onto one of our social science degree courses.

In total, the length of the course will be four years – the first year will be a foundation year, followed by three years studying for an undergraduate degree in the social sciences.

Your first year acts as a ‘Level 0’ foundation year, equipping you with the skills to study social sciences at undergraduate level and introducing you to key concepts and ideas in sociology, politics, crime, education and law.

You’ll need to pass the foundation year to progress onto some of our most popular three-year undergraduate degree courses, including BA Childhood Studies, BA Politics, LLB Law, BA Criminal Justice and Criminology, BA Sociology and Social Policy, BA Social Policy and Crime, BA Social Work and many others.

In a supportive and friendly environment, you’ll be able to explore society and social change while learning how to study and developing important skills to prepare for an undergraduate degree.

The BA Social Science programme is one of a number of courses the University offers for students returning to education without standard entry requirements. Alternative courses are provided by the Lifelong Learning Centre, including the part-time BA Interdisciplinary Studies with Preparation for Higher Education, which can lead to a degree in the social sciences.

Assessment

Modules will use a variety of assessment methods. As well as traditional exams and essays, there is also an assessed group presentation.

Career opportunities

If you complete this foundation programme successfully, you will be able to progress onto one of our undergraduate degree programmes in the social sciences, including law, sociology, education, politics and social work. Careers information for each of these degrees can be found on their individual course pages.

The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate.