Course summary

Understand and investigate society and social structures. Using social theory and research methods, you’ll study the processes that shape people’s lives. This course will give you an in-depth understanding of the structure of society. You will investigate the roles of its dominant institutions, social structures, and cultural practices, as well as sources of inequalities and conflict. By applying social theories, you’ll learn about the foundations of modern society and how we can positively change it. This will be learnt in the context of British society and other societies around the world. In Year 1, you’ll be introduced to social theory, ideas about the state and social change, and the central traditions of social research. You’ll have the chance to take optional units in criminology and international development to broaden your learning. In Year 2, you’ll study units that deepen your understanding of contemporary social theory and techniques of data analysis. You’ll choose from a range of options in sociology, social policy, criminology and international development. In your final year, you'll do your dissertation. This will demonstrate the knowledge and skills you’ll develop. You'll also choose from a range of optional units from across the social sciences. These will allow you to build upon the theoretical understanding you’ll gain during Years 1 and 2 and apply it to contemporary sociological issues. The flexibility of this course will allow you to create a degree that’s tailored to your interests and potential future career. Informed teaching to advance your learning You’ll learn from teaching staff with expertise in different areas of sociology. Their passion, knowledge and research shape our teaching to provide you with an enhanced learning experience. Develop your professional skills We work to provide you with the skills and support to prepare you for employment and further study. These include: critical thinking and research skills sociological data analysis project management communication and presentation skills Prepare for your future career Many of our social sciences graduates have gone on to work as social and policy researchers, civil servants, international consultants, journalists, and accountants. They've gone on to work in: government departments social enterprises and charities European and international agencies and organisations Social care and family services international development public policy consultancy Find out what our graduates go on to do 2023/24 Academic Year Due to the ongoing impact of COVID-19, information about courses starting in the 23/24 academic year may be subject to change. We continue to improve your teaching and learning experience, so you gain skills and understanding which are valuable to you and sought after by employers. Before you apply for a course, please check the website for the most recently published course detail. If you apply to the University of Bath, you will be advised of any significant changes to the advertised programme, in accordance with our Terms and Conditions. We understand that you will want to know more about the shape of the academic year. We work hard and plan for different scenarios, to be able to welcome you to the University of Bath at the start of each semester. Find out about our approach for a safe campus experience for the current 2021 to 2022 academic year.