MSc Enterprise and Innovation
MSc Enterprise and Innovation: The MSc Enterprise and Innovation program at Keele Unive...
BA (Hons) Geography and Sociology (International or Placement Year)
Keele University campus
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Geography and Sociology program at Keele University offers students an enriching interdisciplinary experience that explores the intersections between human societies and geographical landscapes. This program combines the study of geographical processes with sociological perspectives, providing students with a holistic understanding of contemporary social issues within their spatial contexts. Through a blend of theoretical study, practical fieldwork, and international experiences during the optional international or placement year, students develop critical thinking skills and research capabilities essential for addressing complex societal challenges. By examining topics such as urbanization, globalization, environmental justice, and social inequalities, students gain insights into the dynamic relationships between society and space, preparing them for careers in social research, community development, policy analysis, urban planning, and more.
1. Interdisciplinary Curriculum: The BA (Hons) Geography and Sociology program features an interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates key concepts and methodologies from both geography and sociology. Students study topics such as social theory, urban geography, globalization, social inequalities, and environmental sustainability. This interdisciplinary approach allows students to explore the complex interplay between human behavior, societal structures, and geographical environments.
2. International or Placement Year Experience: One of the program's highlights is the option to undertake an international year abroad or a placement year with industry partners. This experience provides students with the opportunity to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings, gain international perspectives, and enhance their cultural awareness. The international or placement year enriches students' personal and professional development, preparing them for global careers and increasing their employability.
3. Fieldwork and Research Opportunities: The program emphasizes practical learning through fieldwork and research opportunities. Students engage in field trips, site visits, and research projects, enabling them to apply theoretical concepts to real-world contexts. Fieldwork experiences enhance students' observational skills, data collection techniques, and critical analysis abilities.
4. Sociological Research Skills: Students develop strong sociological research skills, learning qualitative and quantitative research methods, data analysis techniques, and ethical considerations in social research. They conduct independent research projects on topics related to social justice, community development, or urban studies, preparing them for careers in social research institutes, government agencies, or non-profit organizations.
5. Professional Skills and Employability: Keele University prioritizes the development of professional skills and employability among students. The BA (Hons) Geography and Sociology program equips graduates with transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, project management, and problem-solving. These skills are highly valued in various sectors, including social research, community development, public policy, education, and urban planning.
6. Preparation for Diverse Career Pathways: Graduates of the program are prepared for diverse career pathways that require expertise in both geography and sociology. They can pursue careers in social research institutes, government agencies, community development organizations, urban planning firms, environmental advocacy groups, or further studies in sociology, geography, or related fields. The interdisciplinary nature of the program enhances graduates' adaptability and versatility in the job market, allowing them to contribute meaningfully to addressing societal challenges and promoting social change.
Location
Keele University campus
Score
IELTS: 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 16800
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education or equivalent with a minimum overall average of 60% or above.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall score of 6.5, with no sub-score below 6.0.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 87, with a minimum score of 21 in each section.
- PTE Academic: Overall score of 64, with no sub-score below 58.
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.
Keele University offers a range of scholarships and financial support options to attract and assist international students in pursuing their studies. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and provide financial assistance to deserving students.
International Excellence Scholarship: The International Excellence Scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international undergraduate students. The scholarship provides a tuition fee discount of up to £2,500 per year for the duration of the undergraduate program. Eligibility is based on academic merit and applicants are automatically considered when they submit their application for admission.
Keele International Student Scholarship: The Keele International Student Scholarship is available to international students enrolling in a postgraduate taught master's degree program. The scholarship provides a tuition fee discount of up to £3,000. Eligibility is based on academic achievement, and applicants are automatically considered when they apply for their chosen postgraduate program.
Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme: Keele University participates in the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme, which is funded by the UK government. The scheme provides full tuition fees, airfare, and living expenses for students from developing Commonwealth countries. The scholarship is available for selected master's degree programs in specific fields of study.
Global Excellence Scholarship: The Global Excellence Scholarship is awarded to international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and contribute to the global community. The scholarship provides a tuition fee discount of up to £5,000 for the first year of study. Eligibility is based on academic merit, and applicants are automatically considered when they apply for an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate program.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Keele University also offers scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries or regions. These scholarships may vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts. Examples include the Keele Nigeria Scholarship and the Keele ASEAN Scholarships, which provide financial support to students from Nigeria and Southeast Asia, respectively.
It's important to note that scholarship availability and eligibility criteria may vary each year.
Graduates of the BA (Hons) Geography and Sociology program at Keele University possess a versatile skill set and interdisciplinary knowledge that prepares them for a wide range of impactful career opportunities across various sectors. This program equips graduates with critical thinking abilities, research skills, and cross-cultural competencies essential for addressing complex societal challenges within spatial contexts.
1. Social Researcher or Analyst: Many graduates pursue careers as social researchers or analysts for research institutes, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. They conduct qualitative and quantitative research on social issues such as urbanization, migration, social inequalities, and environmental justice, providing evidence-based insights for policy development and social interventions.
2. Community Development Officer: Graduates can work as community development officers for local councils, community organizations, or NGOs. They engage with communities to address social inequalities, advocate for social justice, and develop initiatives to improve living conditions and access to resources.
3. Urban or Regional Planner: Some graduates enter roles in urban or regional planning, contributing to sustainable development and social inclusion. They work for local authorities, planning agencies, or consultancy firms, integrating sociological perspectives into urban planning processes.
4. Environmental and Social Policy Advisor: With a background in geography and sociology, graduates can advise on environmental and social policies for government departments, environmental agencies, or advocacy groups. They assess policy implications, analyze socio-environmental impacts, and recommend strategies for sustainable development.
5. Social Policy Researcher or Advocate: Graduates may pursue careers in social policy research or advocacy, focusing on issues such as housing, healthcare, education, or welfare reform. They work for think tanks, policy institutes, or charities, influencing public policies and promoting social change.
6. Non-profit Sector Manager: Some graduates work in management roles within non-profit organizations, overseeing programs related to community development, social services, or environmental conservation. They coordinate projects, manage budgets, and collaborate with stakeholders to achieve organizational goals.
7. Human Resources Specialist: Graduates with a background in sociology may pursue careers in human resources, focusing on organizational behavior, employee relations, and diversity management. They work for corporations, government agencies, or consulting firms, applying sociological insights to improve workplace environments.
8. Further Studies and Academia: For those interested in academia or advanced research, graduates can pursue further studies in sociology, geography, or related fields. They may pursue postgraduate degrees and research careers in universities, contributing to academic scholarship and social sciences.
