Sociology | BA (Hons) | University of Lincoln

Course Overview

Sociology provides a framework for the study of human behaviour, examining how societies are organised, how social identities are constructed, and the issues facing some of society's most marginalised people.

On Lincoln's BA (Hons) Sociology degree, students are encouraged to examine the fabric of different societies, the group dynamics of belonging and exclusion, and the workings of political structures. Amongst the wide range of topics covered, students will look at the changing nature and role of the family unit, how technological advances have transformed the way we interact, what subcultures can teach us about mainstream society, how 'the global' and 'the local' jointly shape everyday lives in the twenty-first century; how inequalities are experienced and differences created.

The curriculum draws on the expertise of staff from across Lincoln's School of Social and Political Sciences, whose research actively informs contemporary academic and public policy debates.

Course Overview

Sociology addresses the most pressing issues of our times. It provides a framework for the study of human behaviour, examining how societies are organised, how social identities are constructed, and the issues facing some of the world's most marginalised people.

Lincoln's BA (Hons) Sociology degree aims to prepare students with the knowledge, conceptual insights, and methodological skills so needed in our era of multiple social and political crises. You'll be encouraged to examine the fabric of different societies, the group dynamics of belonging and exclusion, and the workings of political structures. This includes - among a wide range of topics covered - studying the changing nature and role of the family unit; how technological advances have transformed the way we interact; what subcultures can teach us about mainstream society; how 'the global' and 'the local' jointly shape everyday lives in the twenty-first century; how inequalities are experienced and differences created.

The curriculum draws on the expertise of staff from across Lincoln's School of Social and Political Sciences, whose research actively informs contemporary academic and policy debates.

Why Choose Lincoln

Options to study abroad for a year at partner institutions

Undertake voluntary placements in local councils

Choose from a range of optional modules

Take part in voluntary and mentoring work

Two students chatting outside the medical school building

How You Study

The first year covers key concepts and introduces influential thinkers from the social sciences. Alongside this theoretical grounding, students can develop their understanding of the value and methodologies of academic research. Current core modules include Sociological Imagination; Social Issues and Social Justice; Applying Research; and Key Social Science Concepts.

In the second year, our refine their research skills and data analysis techniques and explore key areas of research including the sociological study of cities, or inter-generational dynamics and politics. Students can also shape their learning around their own interests by choosing from a range of optional modules.

The third year explores topics from sociological perspectives, contemporary sociological approaches, and theories. Students will work on a topic of their own choosing and pursue an independent research project, enabling them to draw on thematic and conceptual knowledge and methodological skills acquired during their studies.

Students are taught through a range of different pedagogical methods, including lectures, workshops, tutorials and seminars. The assessments vary from theoretical essays and critical paper reviews to policy briefs, portfolios and podcasts, which aim to provide our students with both theoretical and practical sociological skills.

Students will be assigned their own personal tutor to assist in their studies as they progress through their degree.

How You Study

The first year covers key concepts and central themes in the social sciences, whilst also introducing you to the work of influential sociological thinkers. Alongside this theoretical grounding, you can develop your understanding of the value and particularities of different methodologies underpinning academic research in the social sciences. Our core modules in the first year are: Sociological Imagination; Social Issues and Social Justice; Applying Research; and Key Social Science Concepts.

In the second year, you can refine your research skills and data analysis techniques further and engage with the sociological canon in more depth, explore important areas of research such as the sociological study of cities, or of inter-generational dynamics and politics. At the same time, you can shape your learning around your own interests by choosing from a range of optional modules.

Our third-year elective modules give you a wide choice of topics to explore from a variety of distinctly sociological perspectives. You can also study an area of your own choice and will receive support from a member of the academic team, as well as pursuing your own independent research project to draw on the thematic and conceptual expertise and methodological skills acquired during your studies.

You'll be taught through a range of different pedagogical methods, including lectures, workshops, tutorials and seminars. The assessments vary from theoretical essays and critical paper reviews to policy briefs, portfolios and podcasts, which aim to provide our students with both theoretical and practical sociological skills. You will also be assigned their own personal tutor to assist in your studies.

Modules

† Some courses may offer optional modules. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by staff availability.

Applying Research (Social Sciences) 2023-24SOS1004MLevel 42023-24This module aims to enable students to both recognise and also understand the different methodologies employed in social research and to apply these to their own research project and critique of methods. Overall, the aim of this module is to set out methodological skills, and involve students in their application, and to encourage critical reflection on a variety of levels.CoreKey Social Science Concepts 2023-24SOS1005MLevel 42023-24This module aims to give students the opportunity to develop a knowledge and understanding of key social science thinkers and concepts pertinent to all of the disciplines taught within the School. Throughout, students will be encouraged to think critically about the ideas presented and to examine social problems in the light of a range of academic perspectives.CoreSocial Issues and Social Justice 2023-24SOP1001MLevel 42023-24This foundation module aims to examine some key contexts and practices of social policy in the UK. It aims to provide an overview of contemporary British society and some of its pressing issues and challenges. It explores how social policy, as a broad framework of welfare, justice and rights agendas and interventions has sought to address these issues and challenges. This is set in a historical and comparative context. The module highlights the importance of understanding how social policies are framed, made and implemented and how these can be analysed within understandings of societal inequality and poverty.CoreSociological Imagination 2023-24SOS1006MLevel 42023-24This module is designed to introduce students to sociology by offering the opportunity to consider some of the key themes, theories and concepts which are important to the study of this subject. Students can explore the historical development of sociology, including the role of the early important sociologists such as Emile Durkheim, Max Weber, George Herbert Mead and C. Wrights Mills, amongst others. The different and significant sociological perspectives will also be examined and discussed alongside some of the major themes explored within sociology.Core(Re)Reading the Sociological Canon I 2024-25SOS2007MLevel 52024-25This module aims to analyse some of the seminal works which have been significant to the academic development of sociology. Students will have the opportunity to explore a variety of classical and contemporary texts, with the aim of providing them with an in-depth understanding of sociological themes and theories across time.Core(Re)reading the Sociological Canon II 2024-25SOS2008MLevel 52024-25This module aims to analyse some of the seminal works which have been significant to the academic development of sociology. This module will seek to examine a series of articles and books which are of sociological significance and have emerged from the early 20th Century into the 21st Century.CoreResearching in Social Science 2024-25SOS2012MLevel 52024-25Building on the level 1 module Applying Research, this module seeks to systematically scrutinise examples of research undertaken in the subject area of Social Policy/Sociology. The module has two main aims. First, to enable students to understand, in concrete terms, what constitutes research in Social Policy/Sociology and how the research process leads to the production of specific research outputs including dissertations, theses, published academic articles and research monographs. Second, the module aims to provide students with the opportunity to develop the knowledge base necessary for the production of research proposals and outputs.CoreUnderstanding the City 2024-25SOP2009MLevel 52024-25Over half the planets population now lives in an urban area and urbanisation across the globe looks set to continue spreading inexorably. However, cities are contradictory sites of human development patterned by opportunity, inequality, exploitation and conflict. These traits pose challenges for the meeting of human welfare needs and for our understandings of contemporary life within cities. This module aims to enable students to analyse the emergence of cities across time and space, and through analysis of the city, enable students the opportunity to develop the tools to interpret key contemporary sociological, political and policy trends.CoreWork and Society 2024-25SOS2015MLevel 52024-25This module seeks to explore the relationship between work and society, drawing on different classical and contemporary sociological theories of work. It aims to examine key areas within the sociology of work such as concepts of work, work-place inequalities, resistance and the reality and challenges of engaging in paid work in the 21st Century.CoreYouth, Culture and Resistance 2024-25SOS2001MLevel 52024-25This module seeks to prompt a sociological enquiry into youth cultures, addressing issues of identity and meaning within the behaviour, consumption and lifestyles of young people. Reflecting upon contemporary narratives of youth as dangerous or out of control, the module aims to investigate the plurality of youth cultures, and the diversity of young peoples cultural practices.CoreComparative Politics and Policy 2024-25POL2001MLevel 52024-25This module is based on the belief that comparative methodology can be a useful tool for social and political analysis. The module begins with a consideration of the development of comparative approaches, the use of a range of comparative techniques and the validity of comparison. It proceeds to an examination of some basic concepts that can help provide an understanding of the bases upon which governments are built and operate. Students then have the opportunity to apply the analytical and theoretical tools from the early parts of the module to consider a variety of features of contemporary politics and policy, particularly in the context of democratic transition in different regions of the world.OptionalConceptualising Sex Work 2024-25SOS2003MLevel 52024-25This module aims to explore the cultural, practical and theoretical developments relating to sex work, drawing upon national and international examples. Taking a comparative approach, this module seeks to understand how scholars conceptualise sex work within different competing feminist frameworks and how these ideas reflect, or are at odds with, popular public and political discourse.OptionalConflict Analysis 2024-25IST2016MLevel 52024-25OptionalCrime in Literature 2024-25CRI2003MLevel 52024-25This module aims to explore the subject of crime through a range of literature. Crime and criminals have prompted some of the most innovative literature in history and by attempting to examine a few of these students will have the opportunity to think about crime in a new way, to engage with fiction and the opportunity to understand crime and criminality from a humanistic and philosophical perspective.OptionalCriminology in the Professions 2024-25CRI2002MLevel 52024-25This is a vocationally oriented module where students have the opportunity to reflect upon the relevance of criminological knowledge and skills in a variety of employment options. The aim of the module is to set out how the methodological, academic and practical skills gained from a degree can be applied to professional development, culminating in the production of a professional development file.OptionalDebating Welfare States 2024-25SOP2012MLevel 52024-25This module aims to enable students to analyse the priorities and developments of welfare states over time, and through analysis of these developments, equip students with the tools to interpret key contemporary social, political, and economic trends.OptionalIdeas and Issues in Political Economy 2024-25IST2012MLevel 52024-25OptionalIdeology into Practice 2024-25SOP2001MLevel 52024-25This module aims to examine the impact (and sometimes the lack of impact) of ideology on practice in social policy. Whilst the focus of the module is on the experience of the United Kingdom, comparison with other states will be made where appropriate.OptionalMedical Law and Ethics 2024-25LAW2165MLevel 52024-25OptionalModel United Nations 2024-25IST2003MLevel 52024-25This module is designed to provide an introduction to the activities of the United Nations, as well as an understanding of the practices of international diplomacy and governance. The module will aim to use a discussion of contemporary international issues to explore some of the protocol and procedures of diplomacy. It will also seek to provide students with an introduction to issues of international organisation and international law and treaty-making. All of this is designed to assist students in preparing for their role as a 'diplomat' at a Model United Nations conference.OptionalNations and Nationalism 2024-25POL2069MLevel 52024-25This module explores the sources of our most basic and powerful feelings of political loyalty and attachment our ideas about who we are, why we are and who has the right to rule over us. The module introduces students to the competing approaches to understanding nations and nationalism by examining the ways in which nationalism can influence state development, economic relations and democratic practice.The module also engages students in the intersection between nations and other key categories in social science such as: political mobilisation, conflict, culture, gender, religion and globalisation.OptionalOrganised Crime in Global Perspective 2024-25CRI2013Level 52024-25The Organised Crime in Global Perspective module offers an in-depth exploration of the complex and ever-changing world of organised crime. This module challenges students to engage in critical reflection on the definitions and meanings of organised crime, both in academic and public discourse. We will also examine the transnational nature of organised crime and consider the various social and economic factors that shape organised criminality. By the end of this module, students will have gained a deep understanding of the complex issues surrounding organised crime and its impact on society, and will have developed critical thinking and analytical skills to address these issues. This module is ideal for anyone seeking to deepen their knowledge of the global phenomenon of organised crime and its implications for contemporary society.OptionalPolicing Crime and Deviance 2024-25CRI2012Level 52024-25The Policing Crime and Deviance module offers a comprehensive exploration of the diverse forms of policing and the control of criminal activities in society. This module engages students in a critical analysis of the concepts of private and state policing, which have become increasingly complex and the subject of intense debate amongst criminologists. Students will be encouraged to draw upon relevant theoretical explanations to understand the changes in the policing of crime and deviance, and to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the challenges that modern policing faces in the 21st century. By examining the role of various institutions in surveillance, control, and management of human behavior and populations, students will gain a nuanced understanding of the evolving nature of policing. This module provides a valuable opportunity for students to develop their critical thinking and analytical skills and gain a deep understanding of the complex issues surrounding policing and crime in contemporary society.OptionalPolitical Parties 2024-25POL2005MLevel 52024-25This module aims to address a variety of issues relating to political parties in the United Kingdom. The political science literature covers a wide variety of topics around parties. Amongst those which are examined in this module are the following; the historical development of parties; the role of parties in terms of mobilisation of support, electioneering and campaigning, recruitment of personnel; representation of the electorate and issue-based politics; and the partisan divide. These will be examined primarily within the context of a discussion of the three major parties within the British political system including their development, their ideological tenets and their contemporary positions. However, towards the end of the module these will be set against the position of other parties within the UK including the Scottish National Party, Plaid Cymru and the Northern Irish parties, to which will be added a comparative perspective, drawing upon the roles and experiences of parties in Western Europe.OptionalPolitics and Society in Contemporary China 2024-25POL2006MLevel 52024-25OptionalSocial Engagement 2024-25SOP2011MLevel 52024-25This module encourages students to undertake one or more external activities relevant to their programme of study, and to engage in a critical reflection of the nature of this activity and how it relates to society as a whole and to their personal development as individuals. Relevant activities may involve significant interaction with an organisation outside the University providing an appropriate experience additional to the students programme of studies, such as voluntary work or mentoring within a service-providing organisation. Please note that students will be expected to play a significant role in initiating and arranging their programme of experience and to take responsibility for the frequency and form of experience. There may be additional costs in the form of transportation and accommodation depending on where students wish to pursue experience. The experience will be required to consist of a minimum of 30 hours.OptionalSociology of Education 2024-25SOS2019MLevel 52024-25This module will introduce students to a range of key themes, theories and perspectives that critically reflect on the nature and purpose of education. The module will provide students with an overview of the history of education (formal and informal), including the development of education policies in the UK, but also extends beyond this to consider a range of international perspectives. The module will also introduce students to a range of sociological theories and perspectives that examine the nature and purpose of education in society. The module will also engage with issues of (in)equality in education and will examine concepts such as class, gender, ethnicity, sexuality, disability citizenship and intersectionality. Furthermore, the module will also explore alternative approaches to education globally, including informal education provision, digital education, the home schooling movement and more liberatory, critical and popular pedagogies.OptionalSociology of Law 2024-25SOS2013MLevel 52024-25OptionalSociology of Religion 2024-25SOS2014MLevel 52024-25OptionalStudy Abroad 2024-25CRI2009MLevel 52024-25OptionalThe Vigilant State: intelligence and national security 2024-25POL2007MLevel 52024-25This module aims to provide students with an introduction to the study of intelligence. It focuses on the basic concepts in intelligence by establishing first what is meant by intelligence, before examining the various elements of intelligence - collection, analysis, counterintelligence and associated activities such as covert political action.OptionalThinking Politics 2024-25POL2003MLevel 52024-25This modules seeks to examine the historical background to the various strands of political thought and ideas. In doing this, it aims to build upon some of the major ideas and concepts introduced at level one, by illustrating linkages between political theories and other aspects of politics. In particular, reference is made to key thinkers who have left their intellectual imprint on political ideas and beliefs.OptionalTransnational Security Studies 2024-25IST2018MLevel 52024-25This course aims to provide students with an advanced and comprehensive overview of international security in the 21st century. Specifically, it seeks to understand the issues, actors and solutions that drive security agendas in various parts of the world. Through a detailed study of key debates and key issues in the study and practice of security, the module engages with the following three questions: Security for whom and from what?; Security by whom?; Security of what and where? Emphasis will be placed on the philosophical and political connotations of certain security problems, the impact of security actors in the meaning and practice of security, and the constructed nature of our understanding of certain contemporary security challenges.OptionalUnderstanding Domestic Abuse 2024-25CRI2010MLevel 52024-25This module will critically examine the nature, extent and impact of domestic violence and abuse (DVA). Taking a criminological approach, the module will explore a wide range of academic, policy and practitioner perspectives. Students will explore the recent development of domestic violence and abuse as a criminological problem within a changing political landscape. This will include understanding a survivors journey in the context of victimology and examining the legal, criminal justice and community responses. The module will also explore the emerging literature on primary and secondary prevention perpetrator programmes.OptionalWelfare Policy and Work 2024-25SOP2010MLevel 52024-25The module is designed to examine the ways in which the state, through its social security and labour market policies, has affected the lives of those in paid work and those outside it. A particular focus of the course is on the emerging all-party consensus on welfare policy, in which mainstream politicians agree that benefits should no longer be paid to people of working age who refuse work or training, and that governments must ensure that jobs pay more than out-of-work benefits.OptionalYouth Justice 2024-25CRI2006MLevel 52024-25This module aims to provide students with an opportunity to explore the youth justice system in depth, including the theoretical and historical contexts of youth justice, contemporary policy and practice developments and the salience of political agendas in constructing responses to young peoples offending behaviour.OptionalContemporary Social Theories and Approaches 2025-26SOS3007MLevel 62025-26This module aims to further develop the students knowledge about contemporary theories and research by drawing upon cutting-edge developments within sociology. Engaging with a diverse range of theories, this module will consider those which relate to social life in a post-modern era, exploring a wide range of themes such as risk; knowledge; technology; consumption; drawing upon the work of theorists such as Beck; Foucault; Bauman; Bourdieu and Butler, amongst others.CoreIndependent Study 2025-26SOP3009MLevel 62025-26This Level 3 Module will build upon the skills and knowledge gained during Level 2s research modules. At Level 3, students will work with their supervisors to produce a research project. The Independent Study module will be guided by a clear process of refining research proposals, working with supervisors, initiation of lines of enquiry; implementation and monitoring of research activities over the academic year. Therefore, the Independent Study module will be guided by a clearly demarcated process of: research proposal; refinement; supervisor allocation; critical comment; initiation of lines of enquiry; implementation and monitoring of research activities over the academic year. Therein student progress will be reviewed in relation to research undertaken, clarity of objectives, report/dissertation plan and the work/chapters undertaken thus far. The teaching support will be ongoing over the academic year; but will be primarily geared to assisting the student on issues/problems such as research methods and ethical considerations, managing and presenting research materials and suitable theoretical approaches in their chosen research area, rather than reviewing and substantively commenting upon written chapters.CoreAnalysing the Policy Process 2025-26SOP3005MLevel 62025-26Aiming to build upon Understanding the Policy Process, this module is designed to support students not only to continue to develop their knowledge of a range of perspectives on the policy process but, in addition, to use these to analyse a case study relevant to their degree programme.OptionalBody Politics 2025-26SOS3002MLevel 62025-26This module aims to introduce students to different paradigms of the 'body' and 'embodiment'. Recent research suggests that our understandings and our relationship with our own and other bodies has been and is continuing to undergo radical changes. This module will seek to explore these ongoing developments in Western and non-Western cultures and societies.OptionalCare or control? Welfare institutions in Britain before the welfare state 2025-26SOP3035MLevel 62025-26This module focuses on welfare institutionalisation in Britain before the emergence of the welfare state. Through a series of case studies, the module explores why and how people entered welfare institutions and considers the extent to which they were caring and controlling. Students can benefit from an cross-disciplinary approach as this module addresses themes across Social Policy, Criminology, Sociology and Politics.OptionalChildren, Families and the State 2025-26SOS3004MLevel 62025-26This module aims to examine the nature of family policy as it has developed for different family forms and for different purposes, and seeks to consider why an understanding of family policy is important in the twenty-first century. This is set in historical, ideological and comparative contexts.OptionalCommunity and Conflict 1 2025-26SOP3006MLevel 62025-26OptionalCommunity and Conflict 2 2025-26SOP3007MLevel 62025-26OptionalCounselling and Guidance Skills 2025-26HEA3031MLevel 62025-26This module aims to introduce students to a range of contemporary models of counselling and guidance practice. The aim is to give students the opportunity to develop skills and attitudes that can be of value in a variety of human service settings. A key feature of the module will be to allow students the opportunity to make judgements as to the appropriateness of using such techniques in different scenarios.OptionalCounter-Terrorism Studies 2025-26POL3085MLevel 62025-26Throughout this module students will have the opportunity to explore how state agencies respond to real and perceived threats of extremism and terrorism. This module aims to provide students with the opportunity to develop an in-depth understanding of the extent to which the state and the media frame extremism and terrorism.OptionalCrimes of the Powerful 2025-26CRI3076MLevel 62025-26This module critically examines the deviant activities of the powerful and their impact on the struggle for social justice. In contrast to much of orthodox criminology, which tends to focus its attention downwards, and onto the actions of the poor, dispossessed and relatively powerless, this module shifts the gaze upwards, and onto the harmful activities of states, corporations and similarly powerful collectives. Drawing from a myriad of human rights frameworks, a critical stance is taken towards the concepts of crime, power and legitimacy to understand and explain the deviant activities of these elites, and illuminate potential avenues for prevention, protection and redress.OptionalDrugs and Society 2025-26SOL3001MLevel 62025-26OptionalEmotions in Everyday Social Life 2025-26SOS3005MLevel 62025-26This module seeks to emphasise the significance of emotions in everyday social life and to challenge some of the essentialist explanations of human emotion by exploring emotions as social constructs. In doing so, the module aims to explore the role emotions play in social action, considering, for example, how we form personal relationships, make sense of death, dying and falling in love. Furthermore, this module will also consider how emotions are gendered, racialised and explore the role they play in the workplace, and in laws and governance.OptionalFamily Law 2025-26LAW3073MLevel 62025-26This module aims to examine the law in England and Wales relating to the family and in particular the law on marriage, divorce, cohabiting couples, financial and property rights, and rights and duties relating to children. This module seeks to provide students with an interest in this area the opportunity to develop a detailed understanding of the practical law relating to the family and to examine ethical issues and the wider policy considerations that lie behind it.OptionalGender and Violence 2025-26SOS3006MLevel 62025-26This module explores the issue of gender-based violence (GBV) in contemporary society. GBV is understood as behaviour or attitudes underpinned by inequitable power relations that hurt, threaten or undermine people because of their gender or (perceived) sexuality. The module starts by addressing the definitions and conceptual boundaries utilised in understanding GBV, and key theoretical perspectives on GBV, taking an in-depth look at debates in GBV scholarship, such as issues around intersectionality, patriarchy and patriarchal bargain, e.g., whether this is a useful concept and how far it can explain (global) gendered power relations. These issues will be developed through case studies of specific forms of GBV such as domestic violence and sexual coercion and rape. These case studies will explore specific forms of GBV in the context of the broader theoretical debates, as well as the current knowledge base on incidence, prevalence and responses to GBV. The module will also explore theoretical, methodological and ethical considerations when researching GBV.OptionalGreen Criminology 2025-26CRI3079MLevel 62025-26OptionalHuman Rights (Social Sciences) 2025-26SOS3152MLevel 62025-26This module is designed to introduce students to human rights at both the conceptual and practical level. It aims to explore the theoretical arguments around the source of human rights and identifies some of the problems and possibilities which emerge from such readings.OptionalMulticulturalism and Britishness 2025-26POL3003MLevel 62025-26This module is designed to explore political challenges and debates around the presence of culturally diverse populations in the United Kingdom and aims to examine the role this presence plays in understandings of British and English identities.OptionalNew Social Movements 2025-26POL3004MLevel 62025-26OptionalPolice Studies 2025-26CRI3005MLevel 62025-26This module will instil a focused, substantial and critical understanding of the place of policing within the contemporary complex myriad of social controls, as well as the specific organisational and political challenges faced by the police in the 21st century.OptionalRace and Racism 2025-26SOS3155MLevel 62025-26This interdisciplinary module will explore the issues of race, racism, race relations and racial conflict, and resistance to racism in the contemporary UK and worldwide. Although the main focus of this module is on the UK, examples from different parts of the world and a comparative lens will enable us to examine these issues from a global perspective. Beginning with colonial discourses of the racial other and the history of colonialism, slavery and indentured labour, this module will examine various theoretical and conceptual debates on race and racism, and critically assess how changing conceptualisations of race and racism arise in specific socio-political and historical contexts. The module will also provide students with the chance to assess the continued significance of race and racism in the contemporary world. Students can benefit from an cross-disciplinary approach that addresses themes across Sociology, Criminology, Politics, International Relations, and Social Policy.OptionalSociology of Health and Illness 2025-26SOL3002MLevel 62025-26OptionalTerrorism and Extremism in the United Kingdom 2025-26CRI3009MLevel 62025-26The aims of the module are to: 1.Introduce students to the historical, contemporary and contentious debates concerning how the British state has and should respond to terrorism and extremism. 2.Encourage students to apply criminological and other relevant subject knowledge generated in different contexts to the study of terrorism and extremism in the United Kingdom. 3.Enable students to practice and demonstrate transferable skills in critical thinking, presentation, and oral and written communication.OptionalThe Politics of Masculinity 2025-26POL3001MLevel 62025-26This module is designed to explore the politics of masculinity in contemporary society. Overall, the module will aim to make the familiar strange and enable students to question their own assumptions, as well as popular and common sense notions of gender.OptionalUnderstanding the Policy Process 2025-26SOP3004MLevel 62025-26This module is designed to focus upon the processes of policy making and implementation at both practical and theoretical levels. It aims to provide students with an introduction to a variety of models of policy making and seeks to discuss the complexities of the distribution of power and decision making, primarily, but not limited to, the field of social policy.OptionalWar Crimes and Genocide 2025-26SOS3062MLevel 62025-26This module is constructed as an attempt to understand the anatomy of war crimes and genocide their origins, ideological basis, socio-political contexts, the techniques and technologies used and relevant theoretical perspectives.OptionalWorking in Education and Children's Services 2025-26HEA3037MLevel 62025-26This module considers how to engage with children and families to assess and respond to needs and how to make professional judgements in decisions to safeguard and promote childrens welfare. A further key theme is working in partnership both with children and families and other agencies, considering how, in practice this can best be promoted at different levels and stages of decision-making. Emphasis will be on current research and developments. This module will be of particular value to students as a preparation for making career choices and to enhance their employability.OptionalWorking With People in Adult Social Care Settings 2025-26HEA3036MLevel 62025-26This module aims to offer students the opportunity to explore in depth the context and issues of adult health and social care and the work roles available within it. It focuses on both national policy developments and local provision, with the emphasis on the perspectives of service users and practitioners. The module will be of particular value to students as a preparation for making career choices and to enhance their employability.Optional

Modules

Applying Research (Social Sciences) 2024-25SOS1004MLevel 42024-25This module aims to enable students to both recognise and also understand the different methodologies employed in social research and to apply these to their own research project and critique of methods. Overall, the aim of this module is to set out methodological skills, and involve students in their application, and to encourage critical reflection on a variety of levels.CoreKey Social Science Concepts 2024-25SOS1005MLevel 42024-25This module aims to give students the opportunity to develop a knowledge and understanding of key social science thinkers and concepts pertinent to all of the disciplines taught within the School. Throughout, students will be encouraged to think critically about the ideas presented and to examine social problems in the light of a range of academic perspectives.CoreSocial Issues and Social Justice 2024-25SOP1001MLevel 42024-25This foundation module aims to examine some key contexts and practices of social policy in the UK. It aims to provide an overview of contemporary British society and some of its pressing issues and challenges. It explores how social policy, as a broad framework of welfare, justice and rights agendas and interventions has sought to address these issues and challenges. This is set in a historical and comparative context. The module highlights the importance of understanding how social policies are framed, made and implemented and how these can be analysed within understandings of societal inequality and poverty.CoreSociological Imagination 2024-25SOS1006MLevel 42024-25This module is designed to introduce students to sociology by offering the opportunity to consider some of the key themes, theories and concepts which are important to the study of this subject. Students can explore the historical development of sociology, including the role of the early important sociologists such as Emile Durkheim, Max Weber, George Herbert Mead and C. Wrights Mills, amongst others. The different and significant sociological perspectives will also be examined and discussed alongside some of the major themes explored within sociology.Core(Re)Reading the Sociological Canon I 2025-26SOS2007MLevel 52025-26This module aims to analyse some of the seminal works which have been significant to the academic development of sociology. Students will have the opportunity to explore a variety of classical and contemporary texts, with the aim of providing them with an in-depth understanding of sociological themes and theories across time.Core(Re)reading the Sociological Canon II 2025-26SOS2008MLevel 52025-26This module aims to analyse some of the seminal works which have been significant to the academic development of sociology. This module will seek to examine a series of articles and books which are of sociological significance and have emerged from the early 20th Century into the 21st Century.CoreResearching in Social Science 2025-26SOS2012MLevel 52025-26Building on the level 1 module Applying Research, this module seeks to systematically scrutinise examples of research undertaken in the subject area of Social Policy/Sociology. The module has two main aims. First, to enable students to understand, in concrete terms, what constitutes research in Social Policy/Sociology and how the research process leads to the production of specific research outputs including dissertations, theses, published academic articles and research monographs. Second, the module aims to provide students with the opportunity to develop the knowledge base necessary for the production of research proposals and outputs.CoreUnderstanding the City 2025-26SOP2009MLevel 52025-26Over half the planets population now lives in an urban area and urbanisation across the globe looks set to continue spreading inexorably. However, cities are contradictory sites of human development patterned by opportunity, inequality, exploitation and conflict. These traits pose challenges for the meeting of human welfare needs and for our understandings of contemporary life within cities. This module aims to enable students to analyse the emergence of cities across time and space, and through analysis of the city, enable students the opportunity to develop the tools to interpret key contemporary sociological, political and policy trends.CoreWork and Society 2025-26SOS2015MLevel 52025-26This module seeks to explore the relationship between work and society, drawing on different classical and contemporary sociological theories of work. It aims to examine key areas within the sociology of work such as concepts of work, work-place inequalities, resistance and the reality and challenges of engaging in paid work in the 21st Century.CoreYouth, Culture and Resistance 2025-26SOS2001MLevel 52025-26This module seeks to prompt a sociological enquiry into youth cultures, addressing issues of identity and meaning within the behaviour, consumption and lifestyles of young people. Reflecting upon contemporary narratives of youth as dangerous or out of control, the module aims to investigate the plurality of youth cultures, and the diversity of young peoples cultural practices.CoreComparative Politics and Policy 2025-26POL2001MLevel 52025-26This module is based on the belief that comparative methodology can be a useful tool for social and political analysis. The module begins with a consideration of the development of comparative approaches, the use of a range of comparative techniques and the validity of comparison. It proceeds to an examination of some basic concepts that can help provide an understanding of the bases upon which governments are built and operate. Students then have the opportunity to apply the analytical and theoretical tools from the early parts of the module to consider a variety of features of contemporary politics and policy, particularly in the context of democratic transition in different regions of the world.OptionalConceptualising Sex Work 2025-26SOS2003MLevel 52025-26This module aims to explore the cultural, practical and theoretical developments relating to sex work, drawing upon national and international examples. Taking a comparative approach, this module seeks to understand how scholars conceptualise sex work within different competing feminist frameworks and how these ideas reflect, or are at odds with, popular public and political discourse.OptionalConflict Analysis 2025-26IST2016MLevel 52025-26OptionalCrime in Literature 2025-26CRI2003MLevel 52025-26This module aims to explore the subject of crime through a range of literature. Crime and criminals have prompted some of the most innovative literature in history and by attempting to examine a few of these students will have the opportunity to think about crime in a new way, to engage with fiction and the opportunity to understand crime and criminality from a humanistic and philosophical perspective.OptionalCriminology in the Professions 2025-26CRI2002MLevel 52025-26This is a vocationally oriented module where students have the opportunity to reflect upon the relevance of criminological knowledge and skills in a variety of employment options. The aim of the module is to set out how the methodological, academic and practical skills gained from a degree can be applied to professional development, culminating in the production of a professional development file.OptionalDebating Welfare States 2025-26SOP2012MLevel 52025-26This module aims to enable students to analyse the priorities and developments of welfare states over time, and through analysis of these developments, equip students with the tools to interpret key contemporary social, political, and economic trends.OptionalIdeas and Issues in Political Economy 2025-26IST2012MLevel 52025-26OptionalIdeology into Practice 2025-26SOP2001MLevel 52025-26This module aims to examine the impact (and sometimes the lack of impact) of ideology on practice in social policy. Whilst the focus of the module is on the experience of the United Kingdom, comparison with other states will be made where appropriate.OptionalMedical Law and Ethics 2025-26LAW2165MLevel 52025-26OptionalModel United Nations 2025-26IST2003MLevel 52025-26This module is designed to provide an introduction to the activities of the United Nations, as well as an understanding of the practices of international diplomacy and governance. The module will aim to use a discussion of contemporary international issues to explore some of the protocol and procedures of diplomacy. It will also seek to provide students with an introduction to issues of international organisation and international law and treaty-making. All of this is designed to assist students in preparing for their role as a 'diplomat' at a Model United Nations conference.OptionalNations and Nationalism 2025-26POL2069MLevel 52025-26This module explores the sources of our most basic and powerful feelings of political loyalty and attachment our ideas about who we are, why we are and who has the right to rule over us. The module introduces students to the competing approaches to understanding nations and nationalism by examining the ways in which nationalism can influence state development, economic relations and democratic practice.The module also engages students in the intersection between nations and other key categories in social science such as: political mobilisation, conflict, culture, gender, religion and globalisation.OptionalOrganised Crime in Global Perspective 2025-26CRI2013Level 52025-26The Organised Crime in Global Perspective module offers an in-depth exploration of the complex and ever-changing world of organised crime. This module challenges students to engage in critical reflection on the definitions and meanings of organised crime, both in academic and public discourse. We will also examine the transnational nature of organised crime and consider the various social and economic factors that shape organised criminality. By the end of this module, students will have gained a deep understanding of the complex issues surrounding organised crime and its impact on society, and will have developed critical thinking and analytical skills to address these issues. This module is ideal for anyone seeking to deepen their knowledge of the global phenomenon of organised crime and its implications for contemporary society.OptionalPolicing Crime and Deviance 2025-26CRI2012Level 52025-26The Policing Crime and Deviance module offers a comprehensive exploration of the diverse forms of policing and the control of criminal activities in society. This module engages students in a critical analysis of the concepts of private and state policing, which have become increasingly complex and the subject of intense debate amongst criminologists. Students will be encouraged to draw upon relevant theoretical explanations to understand the changes in the policing of crime and deviance, and to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the challenges that modern policing faces in the 21st century. By examining the role of various institutions in surveillance, control, and management of human behavior and populations, students will gain a nuanced understanding of the evolving nature of policing. This module provides a valuable opportunity for students to develop their critical thinking and analytical skills and gain a deep understanding of the complex issues surrounding policing and crime in contemporary society.OptionalPolitical Parties 2025-26POL2005MLevel 52025-26This module aims to address a variety of issues relating to political parties in the United Kingdom. The political science literature covers a wide variety of topics around parties. Amongst those which are examined in this module are the following; the historical development of parties; the role of parties in terms of mobilisation of support, electioneering and campaigning, recruitment of personnel; representation of the electorate and issue-based politics; and the partisan divide. These will be examined primarily within the context of a discussion of the three major parties within the British political system including their development, their ideological tenets and their contemporary positions. However, towards the end of the module these will be set against the position of other parties within the UK including the Scottish National Party, Plaid Cymru and the Northern Irish parties, to which will be added a comparative perspective, drawing upon the roles and experiences of parties in Western Europe.OptionalPolitics and Society in Contemporary China 2025-26POL2006MLevel 52025-26OptionalSocial Engagement 2025-26SOP2011MLevel 52025-26This module encourages students to undertake one or more external activities relevant to their programme of study, and to engage in a critical reflection of the nature of this activity and how it relates to society as a whole and to their personal development as individuals. Relevant activities may involve significant interaction with an organisation outside the University providing an appropriate experience additional to the students programme of studies, such as voluntary work or mentoring within a service-providing organisation. Please note that students will be expected to play a significant role in initiating and arranging their programme of experience and to take responsibility for the frequency and form of experience. There may be additional costs in the form of transportation and accommodation depending on where students wish to pursue experience. The experience will be required to consist of a minimum of 30 hours.OptionalSociology of Education 2025-26SOS2019MLevel 52025-26This module will introduce students to a range of key themes, theories and perspectives that critically reflect on the nature and purpose of education. The module will provide students with an overview of the history of education (formal and informal), including the development of education policies in the UK, but also extends beyond this to consider a range of international perspectives. The module will also introduce students to a range of sociological theories and perspectives that examine the nature and purpose of education in society. The module will also engage with issues of (in)equality in education and will examine concepts such as class, gender, ethnicity, sexuality, disability citizenship and intersectionality. Furthermore, the module will also explore alternative approaches to education globally, including informal education provision, digital education, the home schooling movement and more liberatory, critical and popular pedagogies.OptionalSociology of Law 2025-26SOS2013MLevel 52025-26OptionalSociology of Religion 2025-26SOS2014MLevel 52025-26OptionalStudy Abroad 2025-26CRI2009MLevel 52025-26OptionalThe Vigilant State: intelligence and national security 2025-26POL2007MLevel 52025-26This module aims to provide students with an introduction to the study of intelligence. It focuses on the basic concepts in intelligence by establishing first what is meant by intelligence, before examining the various elements of intelligence - collection, analysis, counterintelligence and associated activities such as covert political action.OptionalThinking Politics 2025-26POL2003MLevel 52025-26This modules seeks to examine the historical background to the various strands of political thought and ideas. In doing this, it aims to build upon some of the major ideas and concepts introduced at level one, by illustrating linkages between political theories and other aspects of politics. In particular, reference is made to key thinkers who have left their intellectual imprint on political ideas and beliefs.OptionalTransnational Security Studies 2025-26IST2018MLevel 52025-26This course aims to provide students with an advanced and comprehensive overview of international security in the 21st century. Specifically, it seeks to understand the issues, actors and solutions that drive security agendas in various parts of the world. Through a detailed study of key debates and key issues in the study and practice of security, the module engages with the following three questions: Security for whom and from what?; Security by whom?; Security of what and where? Emphasis will be placed on the philosophical and political connotations of certain security problems, the impact of security actors in the meaning and practice of security, and the constructed nature of our understanding of certain contemporary security challenges.OptionalUnderstanding Domestic Abuse 2025-26CRI2010MLevel 52025-26This module will critically examine the nature, extent and impact of domestic violence and abuse (DVA). Taking a criminological approach, the module will explore a wide range of academic, policy and practitioner perspectives. Students will explore the recent development of domestic violence and abuse as a criminological problem within a changing political landscape. This will include understanding a survivors journey in the context of victimology and examining the legal, criminal justice and community responses. The module will also explore the emerging literature on primary and secondary prevention perpetrator programmes.OptionalWelfare Policy and Work 2025-26SOP2010MLevel 52025-26The module is designed to examine the ways in which the state, through its social security and labour market policies, has affected the lives of those in paid work and those outside it. A particular focus of the course is on the emerging all-party consensus on welfare policy, in which mainstream politicians agree that benefits should no longer be paid to people of working age who refuse work or training, and that governments must ensure that jobs pay more than out-of-work benefits.OptionalYouth Justice 2025-26CRI2006MLevel 52025-26This module aims to provide students with an opportunity to explore the youth justice system in depth, including the theoretical and historical contexts of youth justice, contemporary policy and practice developments and the salience of political agendas in constructing responses to young peoples offending behaviour.OptionalContemporary Social Theories and Approaches 2026-27SOS3007MLevel 62026-27This module aims to further develop the students knowledge about contemporary theories and research by drawing upon cutting-edge developments within sociology. Engaging with a diverse range of theories, this module will consider those which relate to social life in a post-modern era, exploring a wide range of themes such as risk; knowledge; technology; consumption; drawing upon the work of theorists such as Beck; Foucault; Bauman; Bourdieu and Butler, amongst others.CoreIndependent Study 2026-27SOP3009MLevel 62026-27This Level 3 Module will build upon the skills and knowledge gained during Level 2s research modules. At Level 3, students will work with their supervisors to produce a research project. The Independent Study module will be guided by a clear process of refining research proposals, working with supervisors, initiation of lines of enquiry; implementation and monitoring of research activities over the academic year. Therefore, the Independent Study module will be guided by a clearly demarcated process of: research proposal; refinement; supervisor allocation; critical comment; initiation of lines of enquiry; implementation and monitoring of research activities over the academic year. Therein student progress will be reviewed in relation to research undertaken, clarity of objectives, report/dissertation plan and the work/chapters undertaken thus far. The teaching support will be ongoing over the academic year; but will be primarily geared to assisting the student on issues/problems such as research methods and ethical considerations, managing and presenting research materials and suitable theoretical approaches in their chosen research area, rather than reviewing and substantively commenting upon written chapters.CoreAnalysing the Policy Process 2026-27SOP3005MLevel 62026-27Aiming to build upon Understanding the Policy Process, this module is designed to support students not only to continue to develop their knowledge of a range of perspectives on the policy process but, in addition, to use these to analyse a case study relevant to their degree programme.OptionalBody Politics 2026-27SOS3002MLevel 62026-27This module aims to introduce students to different paradigms of the 'body' and 'embodiment'. Recent research suggests that our understandings and our relationship with our own and other bodies has been and is continuing to undergo radical changes. This module will seek to explore these ongoing developments in Western and non-Western cultures and societies.OptionalCare or control? Welfare institutions in Britain before the welfare state 2026-27SOP3035MLevel 62026-27This module focuses on welfare institutionalisation in Britain before the emergence of the welfare state. Through a series of case studies, the module explores why and how people entered welfare institutions and considers the extent to which they were caring and controlling. Students can benefit from an cross-disciplinary approach as this module addresses themes across Social Policy, Criminology, Sociology and Politics.OptionalChildren, Families and the State 2026-27SOS3004MLevel 62026-27This module aims to examine the nature of family policy as it has developed for different family forms and for different purposes, and seeks to consider why an understanding of family policy is important in the twenty-first century. This is set in historical, ideological and comparative contexts.OptionalCommunity and Conflict 1 2026-27SOP3006MLevel 62026-27OptionalCommunity and Conflict 2 2026-27SOP3007MLevel 62026-27OptionalCounselling and Guidance Skills 2026-27HEA3031MLevel 62026-27This module aims to introduce students to a range of contemporary models of counselling and guidance practice. The aim is to give students the opportunity to develop skills and attitudes that can be of value in a variety of human service settings. A key feature of the module will be to allow students the opportunity to make judgements as to the appropriateness of using such techniques in different scenarios.OptionalCounter-Terrorism Studies 2026-27POL3085MLevel 62026-27Throughout this module students will have the opportunity to explore how state agencies respond to real and perceived threats of extremism and terrorism. This module aims to provide students with the opportunity to develop an in-depth understanding of the extent to which the state and the media frame extremism and terrorism.OptionalCrimes of the Powerful 2026-27CRI3076MLevel 62026-27This module critically examines the deviant activities of the powerful and their impact on the struggle for social justice. In contrast to much of orthodox criminology, which tends to focus its attention downwards, and onto the actions of the poor, dispossessed and relatively powerless, this module shifts the gaze upwards, and onto the harmful activities of states, corporations and similarly powerful collectives. Drawing from a myriad of human rights frameworks, a critical stance is taken towards the concepts of crime, power and legitimacy to understand and explain the deviant activities of these elites, and illuminate potential avenues for prevention, protection and redress.OptionalDrugs and Society 2026-27SOL3001MLevel 62026-27OptionalEmotions in Everyday Social Life 2026-27SOS3005MLevel 62026-27This module seeks to emphasise the significance of emotions in everyday social life and to challenge some of the essentialist explanations of human emotion by exploring emotions as social constructs. In doing so, the module aims to explore the role emotions play in social action, considering, for example, how we form personal relationships, make sense of death, dying and falling in love. Furthermore, this module will also consider how emotions are gendered, racialised and explore the role they play in the workplace, and in laws and governance.OptionalFamily Law 2026-27LAW3073MLevel 62026-27This module aims to examine the law in England and Wales relating to the family and in particular the law on marriage, divorce, cohabiting couples, financial and property rights, and rights and duties relating to children. This module seeks to provide students with an interest in this area the opportunity to develop a detailed understanding of the practical law relating to the family and to examine ethical issues and the wider policy considerations that lie behind it.OptionalGender and Violence 2026-27SOS3006MLevel 62026-27This module explores the issue of gender-based violence (GBV) in contemporary society. GBV is understood as behaviour or attitudes underpinned by inequitable power relations that hurt, threaten or undermine people because of their gender or (perceived) sexuality. The module starts by addressing the definitions and conceptual boundaries utilised in understanding GBV, and key theoretical perspectives on GBV, taking an in-depth look at debates in GBV scholarship, such as issues around intersectionality, patriarchy and patriarchal bargain, e.g., whether this is a useful concept and how far it can explain (global) gendered power relations. These issues will be developed through case studies of specific forms of GBV such as domestic violence and sexual coercion and rape. These case studies will explore specific forms of GBV in the context of the broader theoretical debates, as well as the current knowledge base on incidence, prevalence and responses to GBV. The module will also explore theoretical, methodological and ethical considerations when researching GBV.OptionalGreen Criminology 2026-27CRI3079MLevel 62026-27OptionalHuman Rights (Social Sciences) 2026-27SOS3152MLevel 62026-27This module is designed to introduce students to human rights at both the conceptual and practical level. It aims to explore the theoretical arguments around the source of human rights and identifies some of the problems and possibilities which emerge from such readings.OptionalMulticulturalism and Britishness 2026-27POL3003MLevel 62026-27This module is designed to explore political challenges and debates around the presence of culturally diverse populations in the United Kingdom and aims to examine the role this presence plays in understandings of British and English identities.OptionalNew Social Movements 2026-27POL3004MLevel 62026-27OptionalPolice Studies 2026-27CRI3005MLevel 62026-27This module will instil a focused, substantial and critical understanding of the place of policing within the contemporary complex myriad of social controls, as well as the specific organisational and political challenges faced by the police in the 21st century.OptionalRace and Racism 2026-27SOS3155MLevel 62026-27This interdisciplinary module will explore the issues of race, racism, race relations and racial conflict, and resistance to racism in the contemporary UK and worldwide. Although the main focus of this module is on the UK, examples from different parts of the world and a comparative lens will enable us to examine these issues from a global perspective. Beginning with colonial discourses of the racial other and the history of colonialism, slavery and indentured labour, this module will examine various theoretical and conceptual debates on race and racism, and critically assess how changing conceptualisations of race and racism arise in specific socio-political and historical contexts. The module will also provide students with the chance to assess the continued significance of race and racism in the contemporary world. Students can benefit from an cross-disciplinary approach that addresses themes across Sociology, Criminology, Politics, International Relations, and Social Policy.OptionalSociology of Health and Illness 2026-27SOL3002MLevel 62026-27OptionalTerrorism and Extremism in the United Kingdom 2026-27CRI3009MLevel 62026-27The aims of the module are to: 1.Introduce students to the historical, contemporary and contentious debates concerning how the British state has and should respond to terrorism and extremism. 2.Encourage students to apply criminological and other relevant subject knowledge generated in different contexts to the study of terrorism and extremism in the United Kingdom. 3.Enable students to practice and demonstrate transferable skills in critical thinking, presentation, and oral and written communication.OptionalThe Politics of Masculinity 2026-27POL3001MLevel 62026-27This module is designed to explore the politics of masculinity in contemporary society. Overall, the module will aim to make the familiar strange and enable students to question their own assumptions, as well as popular and common sense notions of gender.OptionalUnderstanding the Policy Process 2026-27SOP3004MLevel 62026-27This module is designed to focus upon the processes of policy making and implementation at both practical and theoretical levels. It aims to provide students with an introduction to a variety of models of policy making and seeks to discuss the complexities of the distribution of power and decision making, primarily, but not limited to, the field of social policy.OptionalWar Crimes and Genocide 2026-27SOS3062MLevel 62026-27This module is constructed as an attempt to understand the anatomy of war crimes and genocide their origins, ideological basis, socio-political contexts, the techniques and technologies used and relevant theoretical perspectives.OptionalWorking in Education and Children's Services 2026-27HEA3037MLevel 62026-27This module considers how to engage with children and families to assess and respond to needs and how to make professional judgements in decisions to safeguard and promote childrens welfare. A further key theme is working in partnership both with children and families and other agencies, considering how, in practice this can best be promoted at different levels and stages of decision-making. Emphasis will be on current research and developments. This module will be of particular value to students as a preparation for making career choices and to enhance their employability.OptionalWorking With People in Adult Social Care Settings 2026-27HEA3036MLevel 62026-27This module aims to offer students the opportunity to explore in depth the context and issues of adult health and social care and the work roles available within it. It focuses on both national policy developments and local provision, with the emphasis on the perspectives of service users and practitioners. The module will be of particular value to students as a preparation for making career choices and to enhance their employability.Optional

What You Need to Know

We want you to have all the information you need to make an informed decision on where and what you want to study. In addition to the information provided on this course page, our What You Need to Know page offers explanations on key topics including programme validation/revalidation, additional costs, contact hours, and our return to face-to-face teaching.

What You Need to Know

How you are assessed

Assessments currently include coursework, practical exams, and written exams.

The aim of module assessments is to provide a measure of a student's skills, knowledge and understanding of the course under study. Sociology will be assessed using a range of methods across the three levels, and may include, for example: group-based and individual research projects, group and individual presentations, poster presentations, podcasts, reports, as well as traditional essay and report writing, and examinations.

The University of Lincoln's policy is to ensure that staff return assessments to students promptly.

How you are assessed

Assessments currently include coursework, practical exams, and written exams.

The aim of module assessments is to provide a measure of your skills, knowledge, and understanding of the course under study. It's assessed using a range of methods across the three levels and may include, for example, group-based and individual research projects, group and individual presentations, poster presentations, podcasts, reports, as well as traditional essay and report writing, and examinations.

The University of Lincoln's policy is to ensure that staff return assessments to students promptly.

Placements

You'll have the option to undertake voluntary, competitive work placements with a local council, providing the chance to gain experience of a professional policy environment. All travel, accommodation, and general living expenses associated with the placement will need to be covered by you. Placements can range from a few weeks to a full year if you choose to undertake an optional sandwich year in industry (where available). You'll be encouraged to obtain placements in industry independently. Tutors may provide support and advice if required.

Study Abroad Year

We're proud of our wide-ranging international connections and the unique opportunities those offer to our students. The University’s partner institutions in the USA, Sweden, Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands offer you the chance to study abroad during the third year of study, before returning to Lincoln for the final year. The initiative enables you to experience your subject from a different perspective and to explore different societies and cultures. Spaces are limited and are allocated competitively, subject to academic criteria. During the year abroad, you won't need to pay a tuition fee to either the University of Lincoln or host university, but you'll be responsible for travel, accommodation, and general living costs. Where applicable, you'd also need to cover visa costs.

Field Trips

The optional Social Engagement module allows you to undertake a field trip that encourages you to undertake one or more external activities relevant to the course to critically reflect on the experience, how it relates to wider institutional structures, and your personal development. This may involve undertaking voluntary work or mentoring within a service-providing organisation.

All travel, accommodation, and general living expenses associated with the experience will need to be covered by your and the experience is required to consist of a minimum of 30 hours.

Sociology at the University of Lincoln provides the best insight into the organisation of our world and why we interact in the ways we do.

Facilities

During your studies, you can also make the most of the University's Great Central Warehouse Library, which is home to more than 260,000 printed books and approximately 750,000 electronic books and journals, alongside databases and specialist collections. The Library has a range of different spaces for shared and individual learning.

What Can I Do with a Sociology Degree?

Sociology students develop a very wide range of transferable skills relevant to a range of diverse private and public employment sectors, including local and national governments, education, research, and the media. You can develop skills that are relevant to a range of employment sectors, including local and national government, education, research, and the media. Some graduates may choose to pursue careers in policy development, social work, or campaigning, while others may opt to study further at postgraduate level.

United Kingdom

A Level: BBC (112 UCAS Tariff points from a minimum of 3 A Levels or equivalent qualifications).

International Baccalaureate: 29 points overall

BTEC Extended Diploma: Distinction, Merit, Merit or equivalent.

T Level: Merit

Access to Higher Education Diploma: 45 Level 3 credits with a minimum of 112 UCAS Tariff points.

A combination of qualifications which may include A Levels, BTEC, EPQ etc.

Applicants will also need at least three GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, which must include English. Equivalent Level 2 qualifications may also be considered.

The University accepts a wide range of qualifications as the basis for entry. We will also consider applicants with extensive and relevant work experience and will give special individual consideration to those who do not meet the standard entry qualifications.

International

Non UK Qualifications:

If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages for information on equivalent qualifications.

https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/entryrequirementsandyourcountry/

EU and Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page.

https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirementsandsupport/englishlanguagerequirements/.

If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-sessional English and Academic Study Skills courses.

https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/studywithus/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirementsandsupport/pre-sessionalenglishandacademicstudyskills/

If you would like further information about entry requirements, or would like to discuss whether the qualifications you are currently studying are acceptable, please contact the Admissions team on 01522 886097, or email admissions@lincoln.ac.uk

Entry Requirements 2024-25

United Kingdom
International

United Kingdom

112 UCAS Tariff points from a minimum of 3 A Levels or equivalent qualifications.

A Level: BBC

International Baccalaureate: 29 points overall

BTEC Extended Diploma: Distinction, Merit, Merit or equivalent.

T Level: Merit

Access to Higher Education Diploma: 45 Level 3 credits with a minimum of 112 UCAS Tariff points.

Applicants will also need at least three GCSEs at grade 4 or above, which must include English. Equivalent Level 2 qualifications may also be considered.

The University accepts a wide range of qualifications as the basis for entry and do accept a combination of qualifications which may include A Levels, BTECs, EPQ etc.

We will also consider applicants with extensive and relevant work experience and will give special individual consideration to those who do not meet the standard entry qualifications.

International

Non UK Qualifications:

If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages for information on equivalent qualifications.

https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/entryrequirementsandyourcountry/

https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirementsandsupport/englishlanguagerequirements/.

If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-sessional English and Academic Study Skills courses.

https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/studywithus/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirementsandsupport/pre-sessionalenglishandacademicstudyskills/

Fees and Scholarships

Going to university is a life-changing step and it's important to understand the costs involved and the funding options available before you start. A full breakdown of the fees associated with this programme can be found on our course fees pages.

Course Fees

For eligible undergraduate students going to university for the first time, scholarships and bursaries are available to help cover costs. The University of Lincoln offers a variety of merit-based and subject-specific bursaries and scholarships. For full details and information about eligibility, visit our scholarships and bursaries pages.

Fees and Scholarships

Course Fees

Find out More at an Open Day

The best way to find out what it is really like to live and learn at Lincoln is to join us for one of our Open Days. Visiting us in person is important and will help you to get a real feel for what it might be like to study here.

Book Your Place

Three students walking together on campus in the sunshine

BA (Hons)
Sociology BA (Hons)
Sociology

Key Information

Duration

Typical Offer

Campus

UCAS Code

Duration

Typical Offer

Campus

UCAS Code

Academic Years

United Kingdom

International

United Kingdom

International