Social Science BA/BSc
Study of human behaviour, social structures, institutions, and inequalities, exploring how societies function and how social issues can be understood, researched, and addressed.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Are interested in society and people
Enjoy research and analysis
Want a broad degree
Like critical thinking
Are curious
Popular Career Fields
Research & Academia
Government & Public Sector
Charity & NGO Sector
Education
Your Personality Might Be:
Curious about society
Government & Public Sector
Open-minded
Research-oriented
What is it?
What is a Social Science Degree?
Social Science is an interdisciplinary degree that draws on subjects such as sociology, psychology, politics, economics, anthropology, and social policy. It explores how people behave, how societies are organised, how power operates, and how issues such as inequality, health, education, crime, and wellbeing impact everyday life.
You’ll learn to analyse social problems, interpret data, understand policy, and apply theories to real-world contexts. The degree offers broad flexibility and a strong foundation for careers in public service, community work, research, education, and the voluntary sector.
Why Study for a Social Science Degree?
If you’re curious about people, society, and global challenges, Social Science offers a flexible and meaningful route. You’ll examine issues such as poverty, mental health, identity, education, social change, and public policy, and learn how different disciplines contribute to solving them.
This degree is ideal for students who want a wide-ranging academic experience while developing analytical, people-focused, and research skills valued across many sectors.
Course Summary
Study of human behaviour, social structures, institutions, and inequalities, exploring how societies function and how social issues can be understood, researched, and addressed.
What you'll study
Most degrees include topics such as:
Key concepts from sociology, psychology, politics, and related social sciences
Social inequality, identity, culture, and community
Public policy, welfare systems, and social justice
Globalisation, social change, and contemporary social issues
Research methods, data analysis, and evidence-based investigation
Human behaviour, relationships, and social institutions
Skills You'll Gain
A Social Science degree builds strong academic and analytical including:
Research and analytical skills – enabling you to collect and interpret evidence about human behaviour and society.
Critical thinking – helping you examine complex social issues from different viewpoints.
Communication and writing skills – allowing you to explain ideas clearly in essays, reports, and presentations.
Data analysis and interpretation – supporting evidence-based decision-making and research.
Cultural and social awareness – preparing you to work effectively with diverse groups and communities.
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Graduates often work in:
Public services and local government
Community development and voluntary sector roles
Social research and policy analysis
Education, youth work, or support roles
Health and wellbeing services
Human resources, communications, or project management
International development or NGO work
Work Experiences & Placements
Depending on the programme, opportunities may include:
Community organisations and charities
Local councils or public service teams
Schools, youth work, and education support
Social research agencies
NGOs and advocacy groups
Public health or wellbeing projects
Some degrees offer optional placement years or project-based work with external partners.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent. Most universities accept a broad range of subjects. Sociology, Psychology, Politics, History, Geography, or Economics are beneficial.
Personal Statement Tips
Demonstrate curiosity about society, behaviour, and social issues.
Mention relevant volunteering, reading, or lived experiences.
Reflect on issues you care about (e.g., inequality, identity, education, wellbeing).
Highlight communication, empathy, analysis, or teamwork skills.
What to do Next
Compare BA vs BSc pathways depending on your preferred study style.
Explore modules that align with your interests (e.g., criminology, psychology, policy).
Attend open days or taster lectures.
Volunteer in community or social support roles to gain experience.
Wider Reading
Sociology: A Very Short Introduction – Steve Bruce
A clear and concise introduction to key sociological themes and ways of thinking.The Spirit Level – Wilkinson & Pickett
A landmark book showing how inequality impacts health, wellbeing, and social cohesion.Nudge – Thaler & Sunstein
An accessible look at behavioural science and how small interventions can influence decisions.Evicted – Matthew Desmond
A powerful ethnographic account of housing insecurity and poverty in modern society.