BASS Sociology and Philosophy / Course details

The BA in Sociology and Philosophy is one of the pathways within the BA Social Sciences degree.

It is ideal if you want to keep your options open or study specific topics such as race, class, crime or religion from different perspectives.

This flexible degree lets you study at least three subjects in the first year, and then throughout the second and third year you deepen your understanding of the subjects that you feel passionate about.

The six subject areas are:

• Criminology  - The study of the causes and consequences of crime.
• Philosophy  - The study of the nature of knowledge, truth and values. It also encourages greater consideration of our reasoning, judgement and ethics.
• Politics  - The study of human organisation, government and power. It examines and evaluates political systems and institutions.
• Quantitative Methods  - The study of data and analysis to understand the social world.
• Social Anthropology  - The study of societies and cultures across the globe in comparative perspective.
• Sociology  - The study of society and examines such issues as social inequalities and forms of everyday life.

You are not tied to the course code you apply to through UCAS, and have the option to change after Year 1.

Professional experience opportunity

You have the option of boosting your employability through a paid professional placement year.

You can apply in Year 1 or 2, extending your course to four years. You will complete your placement in your third year, before returning to University to finish your final year.

The degree title will include 'with Professional Experience', giving you the added advantage of relevant work experience when entering the competitive graduate jobs market.

Paid placement opportunities

You can apply for a paid Q-Step internship between Years 2 and 3. This is an excellent opportunity to gain work experience and make future contacts. Recent placements include the Home Office, Ministry of Justice, and the College of Policing.

Course units feature formal lectures supported by smaller tutorials or seminars, in which you will be able to explore the contents of lectures and recommended reading in greater depth.

Tutorials and seminars are key to improving your written and oral communication skills through group discussions, essay-writing, and presentations.

Students are assigned an Academic Advisor who can advise you on selecting course units and career opportunities.

The range of methods is designed to promote in-depth learning and understanding, including:

• essays, coursework and other mid-term evaluations;
• dissertations;
• presentations and group projects; and
• exams.