MA English Literature
The MA in English Literature at the University of Reading offers a comprehensive and im...
BSc Sociology and Criminology with a Placement Year
Reading
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
This joint degree, offered by the Department of Politics and International Relations and the School of Law, delves into the dynamics of contemporary societies and the intricacies of crime and criminal justice. Students explore how social processes influence individuals, groups, and institutions, and how these elements drive social order and change. The inclusion of a placement year allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, thereby enhancing their practical skills and employability.
Curriculum: The curriculum encompasses a broad spectrum of topics, including core dimensions of social differentiation such as gender, class, race, age, sexuality, and education. Students engage with criminological concepts, approaches, and methodologies to develop a critical understanding of criminalization and victimization processes, the causes and organization of crime, crime management and prevention, and the interplay between crime, social inequalities, rights, punishment, and media representations of crime. Interactive small group teaching fosters discussion and debate, deepening students' understanding of the complex and contested nature of social problems and proposed policy solutions.
Research Focus: The program emphasizes the development of strong research skills, enabling students to analyze data and evidence from diverse sources, develop persuasive arguments, and communicate these effectively. This analytical approach prepares students for research roles and further academic pursuits in sociology and criminology.
Industry Engagement: The placement year is a pivotal component of the program, offering students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in relevant sectors. This immersive experience allows students to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings, build professional networks, and enhance their employability in fields related to sociology and criminology.
Global Perspective: The program addresses global challenges facing contemporary societies, including the interplay between crime, social justice, and policy responses. By examining these issues within broader national and international contexts, students develop a nuanced understanding of how societal structures and institutions influence individual behaviors and societal outcomes worldwide. This global outlook equips graduates with the adaptability and insight necessary to navigate and contribute to an increasingly interconnected world.
Location
Reading
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 25250
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 70% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 88.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 69.
- DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 125.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Reading offers a variety of scholarships for international students to support academic excellence and financial needs.
Vice-Chancellor Global Scholarship Award: Merit-based scholarship for high-achieving international students. Covers partial tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Offered by individual departments based on academic excellence and course selection. Examples include scholarships in Business, Law, Agriculture, and Science.
Chevening Scholarships: A UK government-funded scholarship for outstanding students from eligible countries. Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Scholarships tailored for students from specific countries, including India, China, and the USA. Criteria vary based on nationality and academic performance.
The University of Reading’s BSc Sociology and Criminology with a Placement Year program offers students an excellent foundation for a range of career paths in the public, private, and third sectors. The program's mix of academic study and practical industry experience equips graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue diverse roles.
Criminal Justice Sector: Graduates can work within various arms of the criminal justice system, including roles as police officers, probation officers, prison service staff, and youth justice workers. They can also work in organizations involved in crime prevention or rehabilitation.
Social Work: The program prepares students for social work careers, especially in areas involving criminal rehabilitation, youth work, and social welfare. Graduates can work in both local government and non-governmental organizations, providing support to vulnerable individuals or groups.
Research and Policy Development: With a focus on analytical skills and data interpretation, graduates can pursue research positions in academic institutions, think tanks, or public policy bodies. Research assistants and policy analysts can contribute to criminal justice reform, social policy development, and more.
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Many graduates go on to work for NGOs that focus on human rights, criminal justice reform, and social welfare. These roles often involve advocacy, community support, and contributing to programs aimed at social justice.
Public Sector and Government: Graduates can work in roles related to public administration, including policy development or management positions within local and national government. This could involve developing policies around crime prevention, social inequality, or community safety.
Private Sector and Corporate Social Responsibility: Sociology and criminology graduates may also work in the private sector, including roles in corporate social responsibility (CSR), compliance, or risk management. These positions utilize knowledge of social behavior, ethical considerations, and law to guide business operations.
Education: For those interested in further academic pursuits, the program provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study in criminology, sociology, or related fields. Graduates can go on to teach or conduct research at universities or other educational institutions.
Mediation and Conflict Resolution: Another avenue for graduates is working in mediation, where they can use their understanding of social conflict and justice to help resolve disputes in communities or organizations.
