
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
- Critical understanding of contemporary social and political issues.
- Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
- Enhancing communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and as a team.
- Preparation for careers in social sciences, public sector, etc.
Prerequisites
- Strong academic background in history, geography, and human behavior (essential).
- A keen interest in Sociology and English.
- Good grades in A-levels or equivalent qualifications.
- Meeting the specific entry requirements of the chosen university.
- Potential standardized test scores for international students.
- Good communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills.
- An open mind to different cultures and perspectives.
Curriculum Outline
- Introduction to Sociology
- Introduction to Psychology
- Research Methods
- Social Policy
- Criminology
- Politics
- Social Inequality
- Global Issues
- Human Rights
- Dynamics of Social Change and Policy
- Doing Mixed Methods Research
- Research Dissemination in Social Sciences
- Dissertation in Applied Social Sciences with Social Policy
Teaching Method
- Lectures.
- Seminars.
- e-Learning activities.
- Directed and private study.
- Student-led seminars.
- Practical work.
- Class discussions.
- Independent study.
Modules
- The Foundations of Social Science
- Analysing News
- Child Psychology
- Comprehending Criminology
- Exploring Human Geographies
- Reporting Institutions
- The Making of Urban Places
- Classical Sociological Theory
- Gender, Sexuality and Society
- Introducing Criminology
- The Sociology of Everyday Life
- Understanding Inequality
- Situating Crime
- Introduction to Media and Communication in Society
- Education, Power and Society: Introduction to the Sociology of Education
- British Politics
- Introduction to Global Political Economy
- Introducing Criminological Research
- Introduction to Western Political Thought
- Welfare Politics and the State
- Development, Planning and the State
- Why Geography Matters
- LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans* and Queer) Studies
- Cities, Places and People
- The Making of the Twentieth Century
- Popular Music Studies
- Lies, Damned Lies and Statistics
- Cities and Inequality
- The World's Wicked Problems
- Politics, Economy and Society in China
- Politics, Economy and Society in Japan
- Climate Action
- Living with Environmental Change
- Music Psychology
- Religion in Britain
- History of Philosophical Ideas
- Truth, Reality and Virtual Reality
- Doing Quantitative Research
- Doing Qualitative Research
- Doing Mixed Methods Research
- Research Dissemination in Social Sciences
- Dissertation in Applied Social Sciences with Sociology
Assessment Methods
- Written coursework
- Portfolios
- Exams
- Essays
- Oral presentations
- Case Studies
- Dissertation
Course Duration
This programme may vary depending on the institutions and countries, but the general standard options in the UK are:
- 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:
- Library
- Computer Labs
- Seminar Rooms
- Lecture Theaters
- Student Common Rooms
- Career Services Offices
- Research Databases
- Statistical Software Access (SPSS, R, etc.)
- Printing Facilities
- Study Spaces
- Group Study Rooms
- Quiet Study Areas
- Audiovisual Resources
- Online Learning Platforms
- Access to University Wi-Fi
- Printing and Copying Facilities
- Student Support Services
- Academic Advising
- Disability Support Services
- Counseling Services
- Career Counseling
- Guest Lecture Facilities
- Access to University Archives
- Map Rooms
- Social Science Research Centers
Career Pathways
- Social Worker
- Community Development Worker
- Social Research Analyst
- Policy Analyst
- Policy Advisor
- Programme Evaluator
- Market Research Analyst
- Human Resources Specialist
- Recruiter
- Journalist
- Public Relations Specialist
- Non-Profit Manager
- Fundraiser
- Project Manager
- Teacher (especially in social sciences)
- Youth Worker
- Counselor (with further training)
- International Development Worker
- Community Organizer
- Data Analyst
- Market Researcher
- Public Health Specialist
- Criminal Justice Professional
- Probation Officer
- Government Official
Fees and Fundings
- Tuition fees range between £15,500 to £20,050 per year and may vary depending on the institution and specific subject.
- Scholarships, grants, and financial opportunities are available.
- Government loan aid is available.
Entry Requirements
- A-level standard offer: AAA.
- A-level minimum offer: BBB.
- 5 GCSEs graded including Maths and English at Grade 4/C
- History/Geography/Psychology/Sociology (Essential)
- IELTS 6.5 overall with 6.0 in all skills.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- A strong academic record.
Field Work and Internships
- Internships in the Public Sector: Working in local government, government agencies, or non-profit organizations.
- Internships in the Private Sector: Gaining experience in areas like market research, human resources, or social media.
- Volunteering: Contributing to community projects, such as homelessness shelters, food banks, or youth centers.
- Fieldwork in Diverse Settings: Conducting research in different social contexts, such as schools, hospitals, prisons, or marginalized communities.
- Community Projects: Working with local charities, community centers, or voluntary organizations.
Certifications
Social Work & Human Services
- Social Work Registration (where applicable)
- Child Protection Certification
- Mental Health First Aid
- Crisis Intervention Certification
- Domestic Violence Intervention Certification
International Development
- Certificate in International Development Studies
- Certificate in Global Health
- Certificate in Human Rights
- Certificate in Sustainable Development
- Certificate in Disaster Relief and Management
General Skills
- Certificate in Leadership and Management
- Certificate in Teamwork and Collaboration
- Certificate in Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
- Certificate in Digital Literacy
Project Management & Evaluation
- Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification
- Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
- Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT) Certification
- Certificate in Logic Modeling
- Certificate in Monitoring and Evaluation
Communication & Professional Skills
- Certificate in Professional Communication
- Certificate in Public Speaking
- Certificate in Grant Writing
- Certificate in Fundraising
- Certificate in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution
Research & Data Analysis
- Certificate in Data Analysis
- Certificate in Research Methods
- Certificate in Qualitative Research
- Certificate in Quantitative Research
- Certificate in Statistical Analysis
- Certificate in GIS (Geographic Information Systems)
Intakes
Typically, it takes twice a year (fall and spring), but may vary like:
- Fall (September/October)
- Spring (January/February)
- 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.