BA Sociology with a Year Abroad

Key details

BA SOCIOLOGY WITH A YEAR ABROAD

Start Year

2023

Attendance

Full Time

Award

Degree of Bachelor of Arts

Entry Requirements

ABB

Duration (years)

You are interested in how society works. You want to know more about how people fashion their identities, how relationship dynamics work in families, how communities change and how power operates within institutions.

You want to understand the world but also to change it for the better. You are looking for a degree that satisfies your head – your desire for a good and rewarding future career, as well as your heart – your commitment to social justice and equality.

About

On this course, you’ll develop your understanding of sociology, explore areas you’re already interested in and discover new passions.

The course links modules across the university, designed around four key pathways, emphasising specific contemporary social issues which connect to employment opportunities. You can explore:

The sociology of inequality, social justice and social change
Criminology
The sociology of children and families
Political and digital sociology

You can focus on specific modules to build your depth of expertise in a pathway; or select modules which interconnect in ways which build up a personalised pathway around your interests.

This course brings together sociology and social policy experts across many schools in both the humanities and social sciences. Our academics have a national and international reputation for research, policy and practice. They share a common vision of the sociological imagination for understanding and transforming lives.

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Important Information

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the courses listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the regular review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. Changes may for example consist of variations to the content and method of delivery of programmes, courses and other services, to discontinue programmes, courses and other services and to merge or combine programmes or courses. The University will endeavour to keep such changes to a minimum, and will inform students.

Assessment for Year 1

You’ll experience a range of assessment methods which are used to check your progress and ensure your academic development. These include coursework essays, reports, projects, presentations and examinations.

You will experience a range of assessment methods which are used to check your progress and ensure your academic development. These include coursework essays, reports, projects, presentations and examinations.

Assessment:

You’ll be assessed based on coursework and, for some modules, project and examination results. For each module, you will have the chance to undertake ‘formative’ work which will help you to develop the skills you need to approach the assignments. Your final year includes an assessment through a dissertation which allows you to carry out an in-depth exploration of a sociological issue which you find fascinating.

The balance of assessment by coursework and exam depends on the modules you choose, but on average Level 4 is 80% coursework and 20% exam, Level 5 is 80% and 20% exam and Level 6 is 80% coursework and 20% exam.

Feedback:

You will receive feedback on formative work to help you improve your work in areas such as your use of evidence and argument before your final formal or “summative” assignments. Feedback on summative work will help you to reflect on your learning so you can build your knowledge and skills as you progress through the degree. We encourage you to discuss your feedback with your tutors so you can monitor your progress and take on helpful advice.

Structure

In your first year, you’ll study five compulsory modules which will develop your understanding of sociology and create a foundation from which you can shape your sociological interests.

You’ll discover how sociology has developed. You will grapple with how concepts have been created, and the contested nature of knowledge. You’ll be introduced to the process of research and evidence.

Two of the compulsory modules will introduce you to the four pathways. At the end of the first year, you’ll choose from a range of options within these pathways, from childhood through to political ideas, the media, wellbeing, and crime, to study in the second year.

Teaching and Learning

Teaching

The academic year consists of two semesters. A typical module is taught through a combination of lectures and seminars each week. While lectures are attended by all students taking a specific module, seminars are held in smaller groups where you can interact more directly with the tutor and your peers to address and discuss different topics.

Academic advising

Throughout your studies, you’ll have an adviser who will be able to support and advise you on your studies and developing career ambitions.

Independent study

Alongside your taught sessions, you’ll be required to work independently, and with your peers in groups. Lecturers will ask you to complete preparatory reading and tasks and bring these with you to sessions. You’ll also be required to submit formative work, where lecturers will give you feedback to help you improve, and summative work, which contributes to your overall mark. Your independent study tasks are designed by the course team to help you to develop as an independent and self-regulated learner.

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Assessment for Year 2

Assessment:

Feedback:

Structure

In your second year, you’ll study compulsory modules designed to consolidate your core understanding of sociology. One of these core modules is a qualitative methods module. There is a further quantitative methods module available as a choice, so you can of course take both qualitative and quantitative modules if you wish to ensure you have a broad methodological grounding.

In addition to your compulsory modules, you will take a range of optional modules. These specialist modules are arranged and designed to enable you to create specific routes through the degree. You will be encouraged to consider how these pathways may relate to your career plans.

Teaching and Learning

Teaching

Academic advising

Throughout your studies, you’ll have an adviser who will be able to support and advise you on your studies and developing career ambitions.

Independent study

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Assessment for Year 4

Assessment:

Feedback:

Structure

In the fourth year, you’ll complete a compulsory dissertation which will enable you to explore an area of sociology which you are particularly enthusiastic about.

In addition to your dissertation, you will also take a range of modules which further advance your specialist knowledge and are designed to help you prepare for developing a constructive and stimulating career.

Teaching and Learning

Teaching

Academic advising

Throughout your studies, you’ll have an adviser who will be able to support and advise you on your studies and developing career ambitions.

Independent study

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Open Days

Assessment for Year 1

Assessment:

Feedback:

Compulsory Modules

WELLBEING AND WELFARE

Code SOL-4002A

Credits 20

This module introduces two of the pathways that begin in years 2 and 3 of your degree: the sociology of children and families; and the sociology of social change. The lectures will provide you with an overview of some of the general concepts and ideas within each of these two pathways, to help inform your decision-making for your optional modules. The first part of the module will explore the sociology of childhood and of family life, whilst the second half of the module will examine inequality and social justice issues within society.

SOCIAL PROBLEMS AND SOLUTIONS

Code SOL-4004B

Credits 20

This module introduces students to the second two pathways: criminology; and digital sociology. This will include a series of lectures introducing you to criminological theories and a series of lectures on digital and political sociology.

INTRODUCTION TO SOCIOLOGICAL THOUGHT: THE INDIVIDUAL IN SOCIETY

Code PPLX4053A

Credits 20

This module is about the role of the individual within society and the ways in which society shapes our lives. It considers a range of contemporary and classical sociological theories in making sense of social identities and formations as well as forms of interaction.

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Open Days

Important Information

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring and review of modules. Where this activity leads to significant change to a programme and modules, the University will endeavour to consult with affected students. The University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. Availability of optional modules may be restricted owing to timetabling, lack of demand, or limited places. Where this is the case, you will be asked to make alternative module choices and you will be supported during this process.

Assessment for Year 2

Assessment:

Feedback:

Compulsory Modules

STATES, INSTITUTIONS AND CITIZENS

Code PPLX5162B

Credits 20

Political systems around the world are facing profound challenges and transformations. Established democracies in Europe and North America have seen the rise of populism, as marked by election of Donald Trump in the USA, the Brexit referendum in the UK or Jair Bolsonaro in Brazil. Democracy has also been in retreat in many states which democratised or partly democratised after the cold war such as Russia and Poland. At the same time, autocratic regimes in the Middle East and North Africa have come under pressure, with movements such as the Arab Spring signalling aspirations amongst many people for a more democratic system of governance. Meanwhile, there are new threats to democracy worldwide posed by the spread of 'dark money' in election campaigns and online misinformation. This module provides you with a critical understanding of how political systems vary around the world and the pressures facing them. It begins by focusing on the drivers of democratisation. It then proceeds to consider how political institutions such as the executive, legislature and the degree of decentralisation vary - and the effects that this has. Finally, we consider new trends in citizen's voting behaviour at the ballot box and pressure groups campaigning for change. You'll gain a critical awareness of current debates in comparative politics and develop key skills including critical evaluation, analytical investigation, written presentation, and oral communication.

QUALITATIVE AND PARTICIPATORY RESEARCH METHODS

Code SOL-5009Y

Credits 20

This module aims to provide you with the opportunity to develop further research skills using a number of qualitative approaches. In particular the module will examine analytical approaches including phenomenology, grounded theory, narrative analysis, and critical discourse analysis. Participatory research methods and mobile/visual/creative methods will also be explored, as these are becoming more commonly used to explore diverse social phenomena within society. This module outlines the potential for students to review qualitative approaches in different sociological research studies, and then apply such methods in a brief project of their choice. The main aim of this module is to enable students to demonstrate how to use diverse qualitative and participatory methods in their research.

Optional A Modules

(40 credits)

EDUCATION AND GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-5009A

Credits 20

The module is about the distinctive challenges that face low and middle income countries in providing quality education for all. We also consider sources of inequalities in the education systems of the Global North, aiming for a worldwide awareness of the issues affecting equity in education.

GENDER AND GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-5020A

Credits 20

This interdisciplinary module will begin by exploring the various approaches to understanding gender and development, then introduces and explains a range of key concepts as the foundations of gender analyses. The module then applies these concepts in examining a selection of important relevant debates: gender analysis of economic growth, divisions of labour and incomes, land and property rights, environmental change, education and health policies, voice and empowerment, violence and religion.

CHILDHOOD, YOUTH AND TRANSITIONS

Code EDUB5013A

Credits 20

This module will explore key ideas, contemporary issues and notions of 'risk' within the context of childhood, youth and transitions. It will draw on psychological and sociological theories to consider the role of education within these areas. This module aims to provide you with: - Knowledge and understanding of the sociology and psychology relating to transitions within childhood and youth sectors; - A theoretical understanding of notions of 'risk' and transition; - An analytical understanding of educational and social policy, provision and practice relating to childhood and youth sectors; - A critical understanding of contemporary issues for children and young people.

LGBT AND BEYOND: SEXUAL CULTURES, QUEER IDENTITIES, AND THE POLITICS OF DESIRE

Code HUM-5007A

Credits 20

How do notions of gender and sexuality shape culture, and how are in turn our understanding and experiences of gender and sexuality shaped by cultural production? How important are other times, places and identifications – associated with class, race, ethnicity – to these understandings and experiences? And to what extent can a film, an image, a testimony, or a place capture such complexity? Addressing these questions from an interdisciplinary approach, the aim of the module is to explore the ways in which gender and sexuality are constituted through a broad array of experiences, practices, and cultural products. The module focuses on issues raised in classical and contemporary research in history, politics, media, cultural studies and visual cultures such as: representation and cultural production; subjectivity; identity; identification; bodies and embodiment; performance and performativity; among others. Overall, by exploring theory in conjunction with queer cultural production that explores questions of power, identity, and desire across different racial, national, and cultural landscapes, the module aims to problematise how gender and sexuality are not stable identities or classifications but are instead processes involving normalisations, hierarchies and relations of domination that can be challenged, troubled and/or queered.

CRIME AND SOCIETY

Code LAW-5031A

Credits 20

This module introduces students to the concept of crime, offering a critical introduction to the problem of crime and responses to it. It explores crime through a range of key topics and fundamental ideas and concepts within Criminology to provide a sound understanding of crime and criminal justice in today's society. It will consider how crime is defined, constructed and responded to, taking into account policy and practice relating to crime prevention and punishment; it gives though to victims as well as how offenders are treated; and will examine how social structures such as gender, age and ethnicity relate to crime.

LANGUAGE AND SOCIETY

Code PPLL5170A

Credits 20

Do accents define us? Do we need to change how we speak depending on who we are speaking to? Is language sexist? These are key questions to consider when think about sociolinguistics, the study of language and society. After all, Language is a powerful thing, an aspect of human behaviour that both defines and reflects the cultural norms of different societies. Our aim is to provide an introduction to sociolinguistics and throughout the module you will discover a wealth of different approaches to analysing language in relations to many different social variables, such as class, ethnicity, gender or social distance. You’ll gain a firm grounding in sociolinguistic frameworks, methods and concepts, and also learn how to communicate linguistic ideas, principles and theories by written, oral and visual means. You’ll begin with an overview of the field of sociolinguistics and key social variables. You’ll then delve deeper, uncovering core concepts such as dialectology, Code-switching, genderlects, language policy, multilingualism, and interpersonal dynamics. By looking at the different methods and types of evidence used by sociolinguists, you’ll become proficient in the different ways of working in this fascinating subject. Learning will be through a mixture of seminars and self-directed study. Seminars will include practical opportunities to practice your skills in linguistic analysis. You’ll be assessed though coursework (100%), but will present your research for your coursework during the module as part of the formative assessment. The module is open to anyone interested in learning more about sociolinguistics, and you do not need to be studying a language to take this module – just have an interest in language and how we use it. On successful completion of the module, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to take your understanding of language and society, and how we communication and interpret this communication, and apply it to many different areas of study. You’ll develop your research, writing and presentation skills. And you’ll be able to communicate your ideas more effectively, putting your thinking to the test by sharing it with others.

GENDER AND POWER

Code PPLM5002A

Credits 20

Providing a conceptual overview of feminist research approaches, this module examines contemporary gender and power relations. You will examine both the formal and informal power structures that shape the experience of gender. Bringing together the fields of media and sociology, politics and cultural studies, you will explore the relationship between feminist theory and activism.

DIGITAL MEDIA AND SOCIETY

Code PPLM5053A

Credits 20

For better or worse, digital technologies are hyped at having revolutionised society. This module will provide you with an introduction to the ways in which the internet and other digital technologies are (and are not) affecting society from theoretical and empirical perspectives, and how society shapes technology. Topics covered include: the evolution of the internet; the network society ; regulating new media; the radical internet and terrorism; social networking, blogs and interactivity; culture and identity in the digital age; and how the internet affects politics and the media.

FAMILIES AND THE LIFE COURSE

Code SOL-5002A

Credits 20

This module will explore the sociological concept of ‘family’ and how this is understood within a life course discourse. Specifically, this will examine how notions of ‘family’ have changed markedly from post war Britain. We will discuss the importance of the ‘family’ as a sociological construct and as an institution over which the Government relies greatly, but has very little direct control. We will examine how time has changed the structure of the family. We will examine the role that marriage/civil partnerships play in family life, and consider how the state understands single parent families, ‘blended families’, Lesbian and gay families, and families that foster/adopt. One of the key theses affecting all families is ‘transitions’ and this will be explored as a concept through the life course. We will also consider the role that family plays for older adults during their later years, and the impact that this has on the state’s role. We will look at gender and the family, and ethnicity and family in modern Britain. Finally, we will consider ‘intimacy’ within family life, particularly in relation to relationships, sex and notions of ‘belonging’, as well as violence and abuse.

EQUALITY AND DIVERSITY

Code SOL-5003A

Credits 20

This module gives students the opportunity to explore some of the key factors through which personal and social diversity and oppression may be experienced, including race and ethnicity, gender and disability, and other protected characteristics. We will reflect on these dimensions through the lens of our own lives and experiences and gain confidence in managing our own opinions and emotions in professional contexts. We will also explore a number of contemporary social contexts in which some of these equality and diversity issues have clashed and examine some of the political and social responses to these.

Optional B Modules

(40 credits)

POLITICS, DEVELOPMENT AND SOCIETY

Code DEV-5019B

Credits 20

This module critically analyses the role of key development actors, and the contexts that they work within. It emphasises how actual interventions play out in society - where they become concrete and have real effects. What changes because of these interventions, and what stays the same, and why? What are the actors’ intentions, who shaped them, and why are outcomes often unintended and contradictory? The module considers a range of actors from social movements to international organisations. It exposes students to the complexities of policy implementation and social change, and provides a strong grounding in understanding the politics of development policy. Although open to all students it is useful if you have taken Introduction to the Politics of Development (DEV-4009B). If you have not you may have to do some additional work in the opening weeks of the semester in order to familiarise yourselves with key concepts. Lecturers will assist you in doing so.

CHILDREN AND SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS AND DISABILITY

Code EDUB5015B

Credits 20

This module aims to provide you with an understanding to the background and legislation influencing special educational needs education. It will enable you to identify historical, social, cultural and political considerations and to understand key issues related to the education of children with special educational needs. Drawing primarily on social, psychological and educational perspectives you will develop a critical approach to analysing special educational needs policy and reflect on how contemporary issues and the current Special Educational Needs Code of Practice is being put into practice in Early Years and Primary Settings. The module is underpinned by a reflection on our attitudes towards children and challenges of inclusion. It is expected that by completing this module, you will be able to: 1. Identify, outline and critically examine key legislation, regulations and codes of practice in relation to supporting children/young people with special needs and disabilities; 2. Demonstrate a critical understanding of the strategies for intervention and the impact of the assessment process on children, their parents and their settings; 3. Demonstrate a critical understanding of current inclusive educational policies and practices within settings; 4. Identify and develop strategies that overcome barriers to learning in a range of educational contexts; 5. Reflect on your own values in relation to children and special educational needs; 6. Demonstrate individually and/or cooperatively a range of problem- solving and reasoning skills, ethics, synthesis, communication and presentation of information. It is expected that by completing this module, you will be able to: • consider the historical and cultural background to current government policy regarding Special Educational Needs; • have an understanding of the SEN Code of Practice and assessment process; • have an understanding of the range of provision and professional support available; • consider the implications of the assessment process on children, their parents and their settings.

THE STUDY OF LANGUAGE IN THE CONTEXT OF LEARNING, TEACHING AND EDUCATIONAL POLICY

Code EDUB5017B

Credits 20

The aim of this module is: To help students consider the complex relationship between language and learning, the implications this relationship has for teaching, and how education-policy has addressed some issues to do with language and 'literacy'. By the end of the course it is hoped you will better understand: a) key issues surrounding the learning and/or teaching of reading, writing, talking and listening in English; b) the importance for learning of different kinds of talk in classrooms; c) contrasting approaches to understanding and teaching 'literacy'; d) how the language of formal education can construct particular views of the child. Content: Through seminars, mini-lectures, student presentations and creative work you will meet and investigate some ideas and theories to do with language and learning in English, and some educational policy related to this. Why isn't teaching just a matter of telling, and learning just a matter of listening? How do children learn, or teach themselves, to read, write and talk? Whose English (spoken and written) counts in formal education, who says, and why? If new technologies are changing English, what are the implications for formal education? And how might your language create your identity as well as express it?

TEACHING OF ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE: ISSUES AND CHALLENGES

Code EDUB5018B

Credits 20

The spread in the teaching and learning of English as a Second Language is huge across the world and we refer to English as an ‘international language’. What exactly does this mean and what are the implications for teaching and learning this language? In this module you’ll focus on the complexity of approaches to teaching and learning English as a second language. You’ll learn about Language Awareness skills (i.e. how language works), explore some second language learning and teaching theories, and identify and critically appraise trends and issues that have resulted in specific learning, teaching and assessment practices. During the module, you’ll be encouraged to reflect and draw upon your own second language experiences and attitudes to second language learning and the challenges faced in becoming proficient. You’ll also learn some teaching techniques so that if you wish to go on to be an English as a second language teacher, you will have gained some basic practical skills. Your knowledge and understanding will develop through a mixture of lecture input, seminars, group work, pair work, microteaching and self-directed study. Through studying this module you’ll develop understanding about the principles and practice of teaching and learning English as a second language, and be able to communicate your ideas about the place of English as an ‘international language’.

CRIMINOLOGY

Code LAW-5032B

Credits 20

This module considers key theoretical perspectives in criminology, drawing upon this foundational knowledge to understand and explain different kinds of criminal behaviour, and society’s response to them. It considers how crime is defined and researched, situating the criminal law in social context. The aim of the module is to introduce students to the study of criminology, and to engage students in critical discussions of how crime is defined and by whom; why criminal behaviour is an enduring feature of contemporary liberal societies; and society's response to crime. The module aims to develop students' knowledge and understanding of: • key theoretical and empirical issues in criminology; • the value of theory in explaining patterns of crime and criminalisation. • the nexus between criminological theory and criminal justice policy in relation to specific case study examples.

MEDIA, GLOBALISATION AND CULTURE

Code PPLM5003B

Credits 20

What role do media and communication play in processes of globalisation? How is an ever more global media creating cultural change? In this module you will explore the cultural implications of global media and culture by investigating audience practices and media representations. It begins by introducing the main theoretical approaches to mediated globalisation, before examining how these work in practice. Indicative topics include the power of global branding, global celebrity culture, global publics and local audiences, transnational cultures, and representations of migration.

THE MEDIA AND IDENTITY

Code PPLM5042B

Credits 20

How do the media shape how we see ourselves? Or indeed how others see us? In a world of social media, self-branding and the increasing importance of mediated forms of identity, on this module you will explore critical ways of thinking about the relationship between culture, media and the self. Drawing on a range of theoretical approaches in the field of media and cultural studies, this module asks you to use research methods from autoethnography to content analysis to explore both their own identities and the way in which identities more broadly are formulated through contemporary media culture. Through discussing the representation of identity in media content, as well as issues of media production, regulation and consumption, you will critically reflect upon the relationship between media culture and social power and consider how social and technological changes impact on the ways in which identity is experienced in everyday life. On successful completion of this module, you should be able, at threshold level, to critically reflect upon the ways in which media texts construct social identity and should be able to discuss the relationship between media and identity with awareness for social, institutional and technological factors that shape both media production and consumption. Assessment is by group presentation and independent research project.

POWER AND SOCIETY

Code PPLX5159B

Credits 20

This module introduces students to key perspectives in 19th & 20th century social and political theory. Central to this module is an interest in the relationship between economic, social and cultural structures and individual agency and identity. Areas explored include the following: social conflict and consensus; conceptions of power and domination; Marxism and neo-Marxism; critical theory; structuralism; poststructuralism; ideology and discourse; postmodernity; the self and consumer society.

APPLIED PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCES

Code PSY-5014B

Credits 20

This module explores a range of contemporary applications of psychological science. Theoretical approaches and research will be covered alongside examples from popular media, films, current events, and case studies.

CHILD OBSERVATION USING A SOCIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS

Code SOL-5005B

Credits 20

This module will enable you to apply sociological and psychological theories around child development to a child, by organising and taking part in a series of observations of a young child in a nursery setting. This will enable you to become familiar with: the social life of a child within a nursery setting; children’s play – based learning approaches; role modelling behaviours; the role of boundaries as a driver to change behaviour; gender based issues in their natural environments. The psychological theories that students will learn about include cognitive theories, psychoanalytical theories, behavioural and social learning theories, evolutionary developmental theory etc. The Sociological theories includes theories of socialisation, sociology of childhood, dominant discourses on contemporary childhood, sociocultural systems theory etc. This module uses Observations as a key strategy to discover how young children interact and make sense of their world in their natural setting. It gives students the opportunity to critically explore some key dichotomies in the social sciences around the relationships, between biology and society, nature and nurture and the individual and society. Students are furthermore encouraged to adopt a critical stance when exploring this notion of ‘traditional development’, taking into consideration how children were subjected to standard measures of testing (Piaget’s intelligence testing, the Strange Situation), whereby their progress is continually contrasted against the yardstick of a ‘normal’ child based on ‘normal’ expectations of childhood within western societies, particularly Europe and the United States (Woodhead, 1999); the role of interventions to get them back on this path of development is also considered.

GENDER, VICTIMISATION AND OFFENDING

Code SOL-5006B

Credits 20

This module examines offending and justice for female offenders compared to male offenders. Specific topic areas will vary but are likely to cover pathways into offending, the complex relationship between offending and victimisation for women and girls, offenses committed by women and girls—ranging from status offenses (e.g. running away from home) to theft and shoplifting, against the person crimes and participation in gangs—experiences within the criminal justice system and, finally, desistance from offending. Theoretical perspectives drawn upon will include sociology, feminist criminology, and intersectionality, particularly the interplay between gender, age, class, socioeconomic status, race, and sexual orientation. Theoretical approaches and research will be covered alongside examples from popular media, film, current events, and case studies.

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Assessment for Year 4

Assessment:

Feedback:

Compulsory Modules

DISSERTATION

Code SOL-6001Y

Credits 40

The dissertation is an extended piece of writing which enables students to explore in depth a sociological issue of concern for them. There is a free choice of topic, subject to the approval of the module leader. Students may, for example, choose a topic, which has interested them throughout the course, which they now want to explore in greater depth, or they may identify a contemporary issue which they feel needs further exploration. The topic must lend itself to completion within the total word limit of 8000 words. The dissertation can be a review of the literature on a given topic, or a small empirical piece of work.

Optional A Modules

(40 credits)

WARS AND HUMANITARIAN CRISES

Code DEV-6003A

Credits 20

Since the late 1950s, far more wars have been fought within the boundaries of single states than between different countries. The occurrence of these violent intrastate conflicts poses significant challenges to the development agenda, as they have often devastating social, political and economic consequences that can lead to severe humanitarian crises. Grounded in the acknowledgment that it is extremely difficult to meet international development targets in states experiencing violent civil conflict, the aim of Wars & Humanitarian Crises is to critically assess the (contested) causes and possible solutions of protracted civil wars. Key themes in the module include competing explanations for the incidence of civil war; the humanitarian implications of civil wars; the role of the media in reporting wars and humanitarian action; terrorism as another form of political violence that is distinct from but in many cases related to violent intrastate conflicts; and strategies and challenges of peace-building.

CONSTRUCTIONS OF CHILDHOOD

Code EDUB6003A

Credits 20

The module will explore different understandings of ‘childhood’ and the implications of these. It will challenge taken-for-granted understandings, through using different lenses to look at childhood – for example, social, historical or legal/political lenses will show us different ways of thinking about ‘what is a child’, some of these contradictory. There will be lectures to attend, group activities to participate in, movies/documentaries to watch and biographies to analyse and present. By exploring the constructed nature of childhood, we hope you will develop a deeper understanding of how childhood is a diverse and multi-layered concept, and thus how working with a child/children becomes a complex activity, and how it comes to be shaped by a number of social, cultural and historical factors.

WE’RE HERE, WE’RE QUEER: GLOBAL SEXUALITIES AND CONTEMPORARY QUEER CULTURES

Code HUM-6006A

Credits 20

The transnational movement of bodies, images, and capital has transformed modern conceptualisations of gender and sexuality. Sexual practices, identities, and subcultural formations have been altered through processes of migration and globalisation, as well as by the advent of new media technologies and the wide-reaching circulation of categories such as gay, lesbian, and transgender. In this context, this module aims to situate categories of gender and sexual difference within specific cultural and political contexts, and investigate non-normative gender and sexual formations in relation to emerging discourses on race and class and to anti-colonial theories of modernity and global capitalism. At the centre of the module sit questions such as: How have queer subjects been incorporated into nationalist projects and consumer culture? How has the liberal framework of human rights reshaped the struggles of queer movements outside the West? In what ways have transnational discourses on multiculturalism reshaped notions of queer community and belonging in global cities and in postcolonial metropolitan spaces? What role have media technologies and various forms of visual culture played in the reconstitution of gender and sexual identities and of representations of queer desire, affect, and kinship? Addressing these questions from an interdisciplinary perspective, and drawing on case studies from different geographical regions and from different disciplinary fields, the overall aim of the module is to explore the varied ways local histories and geographies interact with the forces of political, economic, and cultural globalisation, focusing especially on the experiences of sexual minorities in the Global South and of queer diasporas in the Global North.

DIGITAL POLITICS

Code PPLM6078A

Credits 20

Today's political world is more than ever influenced by digital technologies, from innovative social movements to 'fake news' and digital election campaigns. We will explore how the technologies influence political processes and how political processes in turn influence technology. We will examine the impact of digital media on electoral politics, examining key election campaigns (including recent UK and US elections) and the impact of social media, big data, and targeted advertising on their results. We will investigate how social movements (from Black Lives Matter to the Alt-Right) have been transformed through their use of digital networks. We will navigate the world of online politics, with a particular focus on the new culture wars being fought out in online environments. Finally we will explore the politics of the everyday, and the political effects of the technology platforms on which we live our online lives.

BETTER WORLDS? UTOPIAS AND DYSTOPIAS

Code PPLX6066A

Credits 20

Would an ideal society have no more crime? Who would be wealthy? Would politics be outlawed? Do utopians wish to impose their views on the rest of us? This module explores questions such as these, which are central to political and social theory, through the prism of selected utopian and dystopian novels and other utopian texts ranging from Thomas More’s Utopia (1516) to the present. It focuses on themes such as property, social control, gender, work, the environment and politics. A major question which the module addresses is the political significance and effects of utopian ideas - often derided as frivolous or impractical in their own time - and the historical role of utopian ideas in political theory and social reform. This module is a 20-credit version of Better Worlds? Utopias and Dystopias.

RISK AND RESILIENCE: YOUNG PEOPLE AS VICTIMS OF EXPLOITATION, OFFENDERS AND SURVIVORS

Code SOL-6003A

Credits 20

This module explores power and crime, focusing upon exploitation and the relationships between crime and inequality in the context of adolescence and young adulthood. Three facets of exploitation—victimisation, offending, and justice—will be explored though offences involving young people such as social media, sexual exploitation, sex work, against the person crimes, knife crime and country lines. Theory will be drawn from sociology, developmental/ social psychology, and criminology and will explore concepts such as the relationship between early adverse experiences and maltreatment and later offending/victimisation, differences between criminalisation and offending, agency and victimhood, and children in care who become involved in offending. The module will include learning about programmes and interventions designed to promote resilience and create turning points. Theoretical approaches and research will be covered alongside case studies.

THE MILITARY, SECURITY AND SOCIETY

Code SOL-6005A

Credits 20

This module will explore different sociological understandings of the relationship between the military, security, and society. It will illuminate forms of ‘everyday militarism’, thus highlighting the ways that military norms, values and power are normalised and justified through seemingly civilian social phenomena and contexts. Sites that will be explored in this module include sports, commemoration, entertainment, consumerism, children and childhoods, politics, welfare, responses to social problems, and the monarchy. This module will also explore the lived experiences of militarised bodies (serving personnel, veterans, military spouses and partners, and military children) and their relationships with the military – further tracing military power. Much of the research in this module will focus on the UK but it will also draw on some international contexts for comparison. Students will be encouraged to explore these further in seminars and their assignments.

Optional B Modules

(40 credits)

MEDIA, CULTURE AND LEARNING

Code EDUB6002B

Credits 20

You will critically consider the relationship between media and education, considering what effect the media has in shaping knowledge, what role education plays in supporting media narratives, and how media and education influence cultural and social issues. You will draw upon current social and cultural issues and explore how these issues are shaped and discussed through the intersecting narratives of media and education. You will consider and reflect on current topics that may include issues around gender, sexuality, religion, youth, class, and sport.

CONTEMPORARY CONCERNS IN CRIME AND JUSTICE

Code LAW-6032B

Credits 20

This module reflects the dynamic and evolving nature of the criminological enterprise and recognises that policies and practices of criminal justice; public perceptions, characteristics, and forms of crime; and theoretical perspectives used to explain and respond to criminality are mutable rather than static elements of society. In content, the module offers an in-depth and critical exploration of a variety of different topics that exemplify some of the current issues, challenges, and problems of crime in contemporary society and areas of inquiry within criminology. Moving towards broader conceptualisations of crime and justice, and built around key enduring themes, the module draws on a range of perspectives and disciplines in its examination of emerging trends and new directions in criminological research and thinking on crime and criminal justice, as well as recent developments and policy changes in the Criminal Justice System. Completion of the Level 5 Criminology module is a prerequisite for this module.

ACTIVIST CAMPAIGNING

Code PPLM6079B

Credits 20

How do grassroots and third sector organisations campaign for social and political change? Rather than pose this as an abstract question, you will partner with existing organisations to conduct campaigns on specific issues such as climate change, tax avoidance or gender inequality. You will receive a brief from a partner organisation and be supported in planning, devising, and carrying out activities that will achieve the aims of the brief. Taught content will include strategies for both online and offline activism, analysing power relations at different scales, and ways of assessing the effectiveness of your campaigns, but the bulk of this module will be the experience of a “live” campaign. You will combine applied research skills with professional practice in the form of a “reverse internship.” As the partner organisations are embedded in the module, you will build valuable skills for employability as well as an opportunity for being supported in the exercise of engaged citizenship. You will be assessed by presentation and critical reflection. In the year 2017-2018 the partner organisation was Greenpeace, but partners may change each year.

CRITICAL VEGAN STUDIES

Code SOL-6006B

Credits 20

This module addresses the interlinked areas of Critical Animal Studies, Vegan Studies and Vegan Sociology all of which have emerged as established subdisciplinary areas in the social sciences across fields including Sociology, Human Geography, Politics, Criminology and Media Studies. Topics to be covered include: - Animal Rights and vegan philosophies - Vegetarian and vegan histories - The emergence of the animal turn in the social sciences - Ecofeminism and enmeshed oppressions - Intersectional Vegan Studies - Critical Animal and Media Studies - The Cultural Construction of Human-Animal Relations in Childhood - Education and the shaping of anthroparchal domination - Animal and vegan geographies - Consumer trends in plant based lifestyles All students with an interest in the topic are welcome on the module, regardless of their own practices.

THE 21ST CENTURY FAMILY

Code SOL-6007B

Credits 20

This module specifically examines the concept of the family within the 21st century and discusses how it has changed as a structural form. Whilst families have generally become more diverse, there are still strong ‘normative’ ideologies present within society that can create significant tensions within individuals, families and communities. We will present research which explores a number of these tensions by examining: the role of fathers in family life; lesbian and gay families; the role of fostering and adoption; an examination of trans families through the life course; the experiences of ethnic minority families, and other contemporary issues.

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Important Information

Entry Requirements

A Levels

ABB

T Levels

Obtain an overall Pass including a B in the core of the T Level and a Merit in the Occupational Specialism. Acceptable subjects are: Education and Childcare, Health

BTEC

DDM

Scottish highers

AAABB

Scottish highers advanced

BCC

Irish leaving certificate

3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3

Access course

Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3

European Baccalaureate

75%

International Baccalaureate

GCSE offer

You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE. 

Additional entry requirements

We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.

Important note

Once enrolled onto your course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include your eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.

International Requirements

We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.

INTO University of East Anglia

If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree:

International Foundation in Business, Economics, Society and Culture

International Foundation in Humanities and Law

Students for whom english is a foreign language

Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading): 

IELTS: 6.0  overall (minimum 5.5  in all components) for year 1 entry.

We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.

 If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study: 

Interviews

Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Track. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time. 

Gap year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year.  We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application. 

Intakes

This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year. 

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Course Reference Number: 6774832

BA SOCIOLOGY WITH A YEAR ABROAD