Sociology

Sociology, a fascinating subject, provides a critical understanding of all aspects of society and social life. Studying Sociology enables students to develop an understanding of the contemporary world, human behavior and the forces shaping society. Students are allowed to examine a broad spectrum of social, political, historical, cultural and economic issues while examining topical issues such as class and society, inequality, healthcare, disability issues, globalization, crime, family life, gender and so on.

The BA Sociology programme is specifically designed to help students comprehend how societies, institutions and practices came into being, how they work and might change in the future. This highly relevant discipline is particularly concerned with social transformation and in developing an insight into the major challenges in contemporary society. Besides the core modules that provide students with the theoretical framework and practical skills, students will be able to choose from a wide range of options reflecting the considerable research expertise of our academic staff.

While given an opportunity to study, students would benefit from distinctive emphasis on Health Sociology and will be able to take modules on topics such as the sociology of gender, stratification, family and kinship, religion, science and technology, addiction, and the media.

The programme, indeed, will provide students with an insight into contemporary society, practical and transferable skills sought after by major employers and relevant to a wide range of careers in the private, public and other sectors including Business, Journalism, Marketing, Social Research, Teaching, Retailing, Human Resources, Overseas Development, Government and the Civil Service.

Sociology provides an excellent all-round education, combining subject-specific knowledge and expertise with a wide range of transferable skills sought after by employers. These include:

• Qualitative research skills including interview techniques, focus groups, sensory analysis.
• Interpretation and use of qualitative and other data.
• Research project design and the use of appropriate methodologies.
• High standards of written and oral communication including formulating an argument, presentation and interpersonal skills.
• Collation and interpretation of evidence.
• Organizational skills
• Ability to work independently and in teams

The programme is demanding and encourages learners towards developing personal skills such as initiative, open mindedness, and creativity. The aim is to ensure that students will be well equipped with a range of academic, personal and professional skills that in turn prepares them for future employment or studies or research in a wide variety of fields.

We provide a range of support sessions to help students develop skills attractive to employers. Within the School of Liberal Arts and Applied Sciences, students will be able to access a range of specific career-oriented activities. Students will be encouraged to do research and reflect on a range of work-related questions such as the nature of an organization and their role within it, employment practices including induction, health and safety procedures, self-appraisal and continuing professional development.