BSc Sociology with Placement Year

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs at Aston University are required to have achieved a minimum overall percentage of 75% or above in their high school or equivalent qualification.  

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: An overall score of 6.0 or higher with no individual band below 5.5.
• TOEFL: The overall score 78 with minimum score of 11 in each component is required.
• PTE: The overall score 64 with minimum 59 is required.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

Aston University offers a range of scholarships and financial support to both domestic and international students. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, support talented students, and promote diversity and inclusion. 

Vice-Chancellor's Excellence Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to high-achieving undergraduate students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance. It provides a tuition fee reduction of up to £3,000 per year for the duration of the course.

Aston Business School Scholarships: Aston Business School offers a range of scholarships for undergraduate and postgraduate students pursuing business-related programs. These scholarships are based on academic merit, leadership potential, and other criteria.

Aston Achievement Scholarship: This scholarship is available to undergraduate students who have achieved exceptional results in their A-levels or equivalent qualifications. It provides a tuition fee reduction of up to £2,000 per year for the duration of the course.

Aston Excellence Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to undergraduate students who have achieved outstanding results in their A-levels or equivalent qualifications. It offers a tuition fee reduction of up to £1,000 per year for the duration of the course.

International Ambassador Scholarship: This scholarship is specifically for international students and is awarded based on academic merit and contribution to the Aston community. It provides a tuition fee reduction of up to £3,000 for the first year of study.

Aston University offers a BSc Sociology with Placement Year program that provides students with a solid foundation in sociological theories, research methods, and practical experience. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to pursue a variety of career paths in diverse sectors.  

1. Social Researcher: Graduates with a BSc in Sociology often find rewarding careers as social researchers. They conduct studies to explore social issues, gather data through surveys, interviews, and observations, and analyze findings to provide insights into societal trends and phenomena. Aston University's emphasis on research skills and practical experience during the placement year prepares students for roles in academic institutions, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private research firms.

2. Policy Analyst: Another career path for BSc Sociology graduates is in policy analysis. These professionals assess the impact of existing policies, propose recommendations for policy changes, and develop strategies to address social problems and inequalities. With their understanding of social dynamics and research skills acquired at Aston University, graduates can contribute to shaping public policies in areas such as education, healthcare, social welfare, and criminal justice.

3. Community Development Officer: BSc Sociology graduates may pursue careers as community development officers, working to empower communities and improve quality of life. They collaborate with local residents, government agencies, and non-profit organizations to identify community needs, develop programs and initiatives, and advocate for social change. The placement year experience equips students with practical skills in community engagement, project management, and communication, making them valuable assets in community development roles.

4. Social Worker: Graduates of the BSc Sociology program may choose to pursue a career in social work, supporting individuals and families facing various challenges. Social workers provide counseling, advocacy, and practical assistance to vulnerable populations such as children in need, elderly individuals, individuals with disabilities, and those experiencing homelessness or domestic violence. Aston University's program emphasizes empathy, cultural competence, and ethical practice, essential qualities for effective social work professionals.

5. Human Resources Specialist: The analytical and interpersonal skills acquired through studying sociology make BSc Sociology graduates well-suited for roles in human resources (HR). HR specialists are responsible for recruitment, training, employee relations, and organizational development within companies and institutions. Their understanding of social dynamics, diversity, and organizational behavior, combined with practical experience gained during the placement year, prepares them for HR roles across various industries.

6. Further Education and Academia: Some graduates may choose to further their education by pursuing postgraduate studies in sociology or related fields. A BSc in Sociology from Aston University provides a solid academic foundation for individuals interested in research or teaching careers in academia. Graduates can pursue master's or doctoral degrees, specializing in areas such as social policy, criminology, gender studies, or urban sociology, and contribute to advancing knowledge in their chosen field.