Course summary

Have you ever wanted to know the full story behind the important issues in our society? Are you interested in understanding more about gender inequalities in our societies and women’s experiences of everyday sexism? What can sociology teach us about disasters and when things go wrong with technology? How can we think sociologically about the future? How important is what we consume to our sense of identity and social relationships? How have the financial crisis and austerity measures impacted on people’s daily lives? Here at Lancaster you can engage with these questions and have chance to ask your own by studying on our BA Sociology course. We help you to make the familiar strange, to ask critical questions, to understand a wide range of classic and contemporary sociological writing, and to develop skills that allow you to carry out independent research. Since being established in 1969, Lancaster Sociology has developed an excellent reputation and ranks well globally. Both our staff and students contribute to important public discussions through lectures, blogs, media appearances and social media. Our Department offers a range of opportunities to foster your personal and professional development. You can participate in activities such as field trips, placements, studying abroad, film screenings, public events, seminars, and major international conferences. All this makes for a vibrant and supportive atmosphere. The structure of our degree and department allows you to study sociology alongside complementary topics, such as media and cultural studies and social problems and policy. Whether you have diverse interests or aren't quite sure what you want to major in, we are here to help you make the most of your time at Lancaster. To prepare students for their work placement year, our Careers and Placements Team will provide advice and guidance on: the skills required to create effective CVs, cover letters and applications; tips and techniques on how to make an impact at interviews and assessment centres; how to create a relevant digital profile; and how to research employers and career sectors of interest. In addition, there is great emphasis placed upon developing self-awareness and on how to present yourself in a professional manner to employers. This optional provision will be delivered via a blend of traditional and digital methods including face-to-face workshops, online webinars, e-courses and 1:1 appointments. The University will use all reasonable effort to support you to find a suitable placement for your studies. While a placement role may not be available in a field or organisation that is directly related to your academic studies or career aspirations, all placement roles offer valuable experience of working at a graduate level and gaining a range of professional skills. If you are unsuccessful in securing a suitable placement for your third year, you will be able to transfer to the equivalent non-placement degree scheme and continue with your studies at Lancaster, finishing your degree after your third year.