Applied Social Sciences BA (Hons)

Applied Social Sciences BA (Hons)

Overview

The Applied Social Sciences BA (Hons) represents an interdisciplinary academic degree that navigates the complexities of human society and social interactions.

It investigates a multitude of social challenges such as poverty, inequality, crime, deviance, health, well-being and political systems. This programme offers students with a strong understanding of social theories, research methodologies and critical thinking capabilities.

And it prepares students for diverse career paths in the public, private and non-profit fields.

Whether you are passionate about social justice or merely curious about the mechanics of society, the Applied Social Sciences BA (Hons) provides an enriching educational experience that is both rewarding and intellectually stimulating.

Objectives

  1. Critical understanding of contemporary social and political issues.
  2. Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
  3. Enhancing communication and interpersonal skills.
  4. Ability to work independently and as a team.
  5. Preparation for careers in social sciences, public sector, etc.

Prerequisites

  1. Strong academic background in history, geography, and human behavior (essential).
  2. A keen interest in Sociology and English.
  3. Good grades in A-levels or equivalent qualifications.
  4. Meeting the specific entry requirements of the chosen university.
  5. Potential standardized test scores for international students.
  6. Good communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills.
  7. An open mind to different cultures and perspectives.

Curriculum Outline

  1. Introduction to Sociology
  2. Introduction to Psychology
  3. Research Methods
  4. Social Policy
  5. Criminology
  6. Politics
  7. Social Inequality
  8. Global Issues
  9. Human Rights
  10. Dynamics of Social Change and Policy
  11. Doing Mixed Methods Research
  12. Research Dissemination in Social Sciences
  13. Dissertation in Applied Social Sciences with Social Policy

Teaching Method

  1. Lectures.
  2. Seminars.
  3. e-Learning activities.
  4. Directed and private study.
  5. Student-led seminars.
  6. Practical work.
  7. Class discussions.
  8. Independent study.

Modules

  1. The Foundations of Social Science
  2. Analysing News
  3. Child Psychology
  4. Comprehending Criminology
  5. Exploring Human Geographies
  6. Reporting Institutions
  7. The Making of Urban Places
  8. Classical Sociological Theory
  9. Gender, Sexuality and Society
  10. Introducing Criminology
  11. The Sociology of Everyday Life
  12. Understanding Inequality
  13. Situating Crime
  14. Introduction to Media and Communication in Society
  15. Education, Power and Society: Introduction to the Sociology of Education
  16. British Politics
  17. Introduction to Global Political Economy
  18. Introducing Criminological Research
  19. Introduction to Western Political Thought
  20. Welfare Politics and the State
  21. Development, Planning and the State
  22. Why Geography Matters
  23. LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans* and Queer) Studies
  24. Cities, Places and People
  25. The Making of the Twentieth Century
  26. Popular Music Studies
  27. Lies, Damned Lies and Statistics
  28. Cities and Inequality
  29. The World's Wicked Problems
  30. Politics, Economy and Society in China
  31. Politics, Economy and Society in Japan
  32. Climate Action
  33. Living with Environmental Change
  34. Music Psychology
  35. Religion in Britain
  36. History of Philosophical Ideas
  37. Truth, Reality and Virtual Reality
  38. Doing Quantitative Research
  39. Doing Qualitative Research
  40. Doing Mixed Methods Research
  41. Research Dissemination in Social Sciences
  42. Dissertation in Applied Social Sciences with Sociology

Assessment Methods

  1. Written coursework
  2. Portfolios
  3. Exams
  4. Essays
  5. Oral presentations
  6. Case Studies
  7. Dissertation

Course Duration

This programme may vary depending on the institutions and countries, but the general standard options in the UK are:

  1. 03 - 04 (Full-time).

Facilities

Applied Social Sciences BA (Hons) in the UK universities typically provide excellent facilities to support student learning and practical experience. These facilities may include:

  1. Library
  2. Computer Labs
  3. Seminar Rooms
  4. Lecture Theaters
  5. Student Common Rooms
  6. Career Services Offices
  7. Research Databases
  8. Statistical Software Access (SPSS, R, etc.)
  9. Printing Facilities
  10. Study Spaces
  11. Group Study Rooms
  12. Quiet Study Areas
  13. Audiovisual Resources
  14. Online Learning Platforms
  15. Access to University Wi-Fi
  16. Printing and Copying Facilities
  17. Student Support Services
  18. Academic Advising
  19. Disability Support Services
  20. Counseling Services
  21. Career Counseling
  22. Guest Lecture Facilities
  23. Access to University Archives
  24. Map Rooms
  25. Social Science Research Centers

Career Pathways

  1. Social Worker
  2. Community Development Worker
  3. Social Research Analyst
  4. Policy Analyst
  5. Policy Advisor
  6. Programme Evaluator
  7. Market Research Analyst
  8. Human Resources Specialist
  9. Recruiter
  10. Journalist
  11. Public Relations Specialist
  12. Non-Profit Manager
  13. Fundraiser
  14. Project Manager
  15. Teacher (especially in social sciences)
  16. Youth Worker
  17. Counselor (with further training)
  18. International Development Worker
  19. Community Organizer
  20. Data Analyst
  21. Market Researcher
  22. Public Health Specialist
  23. Criminal Justice Professional
  24. Probation Officer
  25. Government Official

Fees and Fundings

  1. Tuition fees range between £15,500 to £20,050 per year and may vary depending on the institution and specific subject.
  2. Scholarships, grants, and financial opportunities are available.
  3. Government loan aid is available.

Entry Requirements

  1. A-level standard offer: AAA.
  2. A-level minimum offer: BBB.
  3. 5 GCSEs graded including Maths and English at Grade 4/C
  4. History/Geography/Psychology/Sociology (Essential)
  5. IELTS 6.5 overall with 6.0 in all skills.
  6. Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  7. A strong academic record.

Field Work and Internships

  1. Internships in the Public Sector: Working in local government, government agencies, or non-profit organizations.
  2. Internships in the Private Sector: Gaining experience in areas like market research, human resources, or social media.
  3. Volunteering: Contributing to community projects, such as homelessness shelters, food banks, or youth centers.
  4. Fieldwork in Diverse Settings: Conducting research in different social contexts, such as schools, hospitals, prisons, or marginalized communities.
  5. Community Projects: Working with local charities, community centers, or voluntary organizations.

Certifications

Social Work & Human Services

  1. Social Work Registration (where applicable)
  2. Child Protection Certification
  3. Mental Health First Aid
  4. Crisis Intervention Certification
  5. Domestic Violence Intervention Certification

International Development

  1. Certificate in International Development Studies
  2. Certificate in Global Health
  3. Certificate in Human Rights
  4. Certificate in Sustainable Development
  5. Certificate in Disaster Relief and Management

General Skills

  1. Certificate in Leadership and Management
  2. Certificate in Teamwork and Collaboration
  3. Certificate in Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
  4. Certificate in Digital Literacy

Project Management & Evaluation

  1. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification
  2. Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
  3. Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT) Certification
  4. Certificate in Logic Modeling
  5. Certificate in Monitoring and Evaluation

Communication & Professional Skills

  1. Certificate in Professional Communication
  2. Certificate in Public Speaking
  3. Certificate in Grant Writing
  4. Certificate in Fundraising
  5. Certificate in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution

Research & Data Analysis

  1. Certificate in Data Analysis
  2. Certificate in Research Methods
  3. Certificate in Qualitative Research
  4. Certificate in Quantitative Research
  5. Certificate in Statistical Analysis
  6. Certificate in GIS (Geographic Information Systems)

Intakes

Typically, it takes twice a year (fall and spring), but may vary like:

  1. Fall (September/October)
  2. Spring (January/February)
  3. Summer (May/June)

Student Testimony

"I really enjoyed the small size of the department because I’ve been able to form great friendships with my peers and good relationships with the lecturers, meaning that I didn’t just feel like a number or a statistic." Says - Georgiana Furlong, Applied Social Sciences BA, Class of 2021."

Frequently asked questions

This interdisciplinary degree explores various aspects of human society and social interactions. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, providing students with a strong understanding of social issues, research methods, and critical thinking skills.

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