Social Sciences BSc (Hons)

Direct your own learning with a broad-based training in the social sciences that is focused on cutting-edge issues of social change and justice.

This course draws on insights from several disciplines, including sociology, social policy as well as international development and criminology. You’ll be free to explore which issues or ideas in social science you find most interesting. You’ll study these from diverse perspectives and link them with relevant research skills. You’ll be supported in tailor-making your degree according to your interests.

In your first year you’ll study social policy, sociology and gain a firm grounding in research methods and sources of data. You'll develop an understanding of how society works and the levers of social change.

In your second year you'll continue a broad-based approach or choose to specialise in specific areas, whether it’s policy, social theory, or justice and conflict.

In your final year you’ll carry out a year-long social science dissertation. You'll be able to make use of a range of methodological skills you’ll have accumulated during the course.

Study in an enriched learning environment

You’ll learn from committed academics with expertise across the social sciences. Their international collaborations and research activities inform teaching and contribute to your learning experience.

Our researchers have specialisms in:

• children and families
• health
• international development
• justice and rights
• migration
• policy design and analysis
• poverty
• violence and crime

Prepare for your future

Those who study our social sciences degrees have excellent graduate prospects with diverse options. Our graduates have worked as social and policy researchers, civil servants, international consultants, journalists, and in multiple government, charity sector and business-related roles.

Our recent graduates have gone on to work for:

• Amazon
• BBC Worldwide
• Goldman Sachs
• Guide Dogs
• Parliamentary Research Service

Learning and assessment

You’ll be taught and assessed by a variety of methods and it will vary between units. These methods are designed to promote in-depth learning and understanding of the subject.

Assessment

• Coursework
• Dissertation
• Essay
• Oral assessment
• Practical work
• Written examination
• Other