Certificate / Diploma / BA Hons. Social Studies

Information for Prospective Students

The part-time BA Social Studies degree was set up by the University in 1997 to meet the needs of people in the community who were interested in following courses in the general area of the social sciences. The degree is taught by people who are united in their enthusiasm for their subjects and commitment to teaching.

Who is it for?
This degree is for those who would like to engage with many major issues of concern for society, applying academic theories and concepts to the critical and analytical study of real world events, processes and institutions. It will help you to develop a range of really useful critical and analytical skills which are highly valued by employers. You will also develop research skills, interpersonal awareness, creativity, flexibility, written and verbal communication skills, and skills related to self-organisation and time-management, team-working and self-directed study.

What will I study?
You will be able to choose modules from a range of academic disciplines such as psychology, sociology and history as well as following a number of interdisciplinary modules which help you make connections between the various disciplines.

Introductory courses are intended to lay a foundation for deeper understanding of the subjects and also to help build your confidence in studying. As you progress you will find your confidence and skills growing and you will be able to study these subjects in greater depth. Two core modules at levels 5 and 6 introduce you to the development of Western thought since the Enlightenment and to the impact of globalization on the contemporary world. There are also opportunities to develop particular interests of your own through researching and writing dissertations at the 5th and 6th levels.

In the first year you will study the following modules of which no previous knowledge is assumed:

Identities
An introduction to the study of the Social Sciences at degree level through looking at the question of identities. What does it mean to be Welsh, or British, or European? How far is our identity shaped by our upbringing and our experiences in life? Is class still an important factor in our identity? What part does gender play? We will investigate these and other questions from the perspective of a number of different disciplines, including sociology, psychology, history and politics.

Learning to Learn
Designed as a foundation for studying, this module introduces you to a wide range of skills which will be of great help to you in your studies. Included among these skills is an introduction to the University Library which explains how to find books and articles both on the shelves and on-line. Reading academic books, note taking, critical thinking, how to reference and preparing bibliographies are also covered, as is essay writing. Other skills covered include an introduction to PCs, Windows, University network and e-mailing.

War Society and the Media
This module examines the nature and impact of warfare in the 20th century, focusing on Europe and the USA. Topics covered include the destructive impact of world war, the level and impact of popular involvement and a study of more localised conflicts since 1940s. In addition specific areas are identified which are closely associated with the impact of war, namely the use and effectiveness of propaganda, the psychological impact of war on combatants and the growth of state intervention in Britain.

Fundamentals of Psychology
This introductory module looks at topics which are both important in the academic discipline of psychology and of broader concern in society. They include The Developing Child, Adolescence and Adulthood, Motivation, Emotion, Psychological Disorders, Therapy, Stress and Health, and Social Psychology.

Where will I study?
Modules are taught at Bangor and by distance learning. It is also possible to follow level 4 of this degree in Harlech on a full-time basis.

When and how will I study?
Most modules are taught in the evening between 6.00 and 9.00 pm and occasional Saturdays during semesters. Attendance varies depending on the number of modules studied at any one time.

Entry Requirements
It is possible to begin the course at level 4 with no formal academic qualifications. All applicants are interviewed and we look for evidence of interest in at least one of the subjects covered in the degree. This might be through your reading, previous courses you have attended (including Access courses) or some other means. Interviews are friendly and informal.

If you have already studied at higher education level during the last 5 years you may be eligible for credit exemption.

How long will it take?
This depends on the number of modules you complete each semester. In order to complete the degree in four and a half years, you would need to attend two evenings a week and, very occasionally, a weekend. Most students who enter at level 4 take about 5 years to complete their degree.

How much will it cost?
If you enter at level 4 without any previous credits, the degree requires 360 credits. Please contact us or see our Finance & Funding pages for current fees and information about funding opportunities.

Progression Routes
Our graduates have gone on to do a range of occupations including teaching in schools and colleges, administration, journalism and working in the social services. Some have gone on to study at postgraduate level at Lifelong Learning or other departments within the University.

For further information about this Degree, or to apply, please contact us on 01248 382475. Or e-mail ll@bangor.ac.uk.

Download an application form here.