MA Digital Media and Creative Industries
The MA Digital Media and Creative Industries at Loughborough University aims t...
BSc (Hons) Sociology with Placement Year
Loughborough
INTAKE: October
Program Overview
The BSc (Hons) Sociology with Placement Year at Loughborough University offers students a unique opportunity to combine rigorous academic study with practical experience. This program equips students with a deep understanding of social structures, human behavior, and societal challenges, while also providing them with the chance to gain valuable industry experience through a placement year. The program’s interdisciplinary approach ensures students develop critical thinking and research skills, preparing them for a wide range of careers in social research, public policy, social services, and beyond. By including a placement year, this program enhances employability, giving students the opportunity to apply their knowledge in real-world settings and build professional networks before graduation.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BSc (Hons) Sociology with Placement Year is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in sociological theory, research methodologies, and the study of key social issues. In the first year, students are introduced to the core concepts of sociology, including topics such as social inequality, culture, social institutions, and social change. They also receive training in quantitative and qualitative research methods, essential skills for any sociologist. In the second year, students explore more specialized topics such as crime and deviance, social stratification, global social issues, and the sociology of health and education. The final year allows students to delve into advanced topics, including social policy, migration, and environmental sociology. Students are also encouraged to choose elective modules to tailor their studies to specific interests. The inclusion of a placement year between the second and final years provides students with invaluable professional experience, allowing them to apply their academic learning in real-world contexts.
Research Focus: Loughborough University’s Sociology department is known for its strong emphasis on research, and the BSc (Hons) Sociology with Placement Year program benefits from this focus. Faculty members engage in research across a wide range of sociological fields, including social inequality, migration, gender studies, social justice, environmental sociology, and the sociology of education and health. Students are encouraged to engage with current sociological research and methodologies throughout the program. They also have the opportunity to participate in research projects, especially during their placement year, where they can apply sociological research methods in real-world settings. The department’s commitment to research excellence provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the key issues and debates within sociology, enabling them to contribute to ongoing discussions in the field.
Industry Engagement: One of the standout features of the BSc (Hons) Sociology with Placement Year is the emphasis on industry engagement. Loughborough University has established strong connections with local and national organizations, as well as public sector bodies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and social research firms. These partnerships facilitate placement opportunities for students, allowing them to gain hands-on experience and apply their sociological knowledge in real-world settings. During the placement year, students can work with organizations focused on social policy, education, health, crime prevention, or community development. This industry exposure provides students with a deeper understanding of the practical applications of sociology, while also enhancing their employability by helping them build professional networks and gain valuable workplace skills. Additionally, the university’s Careers Network offers support in finding placements and preparing students for successful careers in the social sciences field.
Global Perspective: The BSc (Hons) Sociology with Placement Year program at Loughborough University offers students a global perspective on sociological issues. Throughout the program, students explore a wide range of social issues that have global significance, such as migration, climate change, human rights, and global inequalities. Modules that focus on international social problems allow students to critically engage with global social challenges and the policies that address them. Loughborough University’s international outlook is also reflected in the diverse range of students and staff, creating a multicultural environment that fosters cross-cultural understanding. Students are encouraged to consider the global implications of sociological issues and gain insights into how social problems are experienced and addressed in different parts of the world. Opportunities for studying abroad or engaging with international research initiatives further broaden students' perspectives on global social dynamics.
Location
Loughborough
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 23000
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 75% 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 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 92.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 67.
- DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 120.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Loughborough University offers a range of scholarships for international students to support their education and make studying in the UK more affordable. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, financial need, and the potential for students to contribute to the university community.
International Excellence Awards: These are merit-based scholarships offered to international students applying for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. These awards typically cover part of the tuition fees and are designed to attract outstanding students from around the globe.
Global Scholarships: Loughborough offers various global scholarships based on geographical location, supporting students from specific regions or countries with reduced tuition fees.
Loughborough University Elite Sports Scholarships: These are available for students who are competing at an elite level in their sport. The scholarship includes financial support, as well as access to the university's world-class sports facilities, coaching, and training programs.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Loughborough University offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular countries. These scholarships are designed to support students who demonstrate high academic potential and a commitment to contributing to their home country upon graduation.
The BSc (Hons) Sociology with Placement Year program at Loughborough University equips students with a diverse skill set that is highly sought after across various sectors. By combining a solid academic foundation with practical experience through the placement year, graduates are well-prepared for a wide range of career opportunities in both public and private sectors. The program emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and social awareness, which makes its graduates highly adaptable to different professional roles.
Social Researcher: Sociology graduates are well-prepared for roles in social research, working for government agencies, think tanks, research organizations, or market research firms. They may conduct surveys, analyze data, and produce reports that inform social policies and public programs. Graduates may focus on specific areas such as public opinion, education, healthcare, crime, or economic disparities.
Policy Analyst: With their deep understanding of social issues and research skills, sociology graduates can work as policy analysts in governmental departments, NGOs, or consultancy firms. In this role, they analyze existing policies, identify societal problems, and recommend solutions to improve public services and address issues such as inequality, poverty, and health disparities.
Community Development Worker: Graduates interested in working directly with communities may choose careers in community development. These professionals work with local authorities, charities, and social enterprises to design and implement programs that support social cohesion, improve public health, or promote economic development. They may work with marginalized groups to enhance their social and economic well-being.
Social Worker: With further qualification, sociology graduates can pursue careers in social work. Social workers provide support to individuals and families facing social challenges, such as abuse, mental health issues, or poverty. This role may involve working with vulnerable children, elderly individuals, or those with disabilities, ensuring they receive the care and assistance they need.
Human Resources (HR) Specialist: Sociology graduates’ understanding of social behavior and organizational dynamics makes them well-suited for careers in HR. In this role, they can help organizations recruit, manage, and retain employees, ensure diversity and inclusion, and address workplace issues. Graduates may also work in talent management or employee relations, contributing to building positive workplace environments.
Criminal Justice Professional: For those interested in criminal justice, sociology graduates can pursue careers as probation officers, crime analysts, or youth justice workers. In these roles, they apply their understanding of social behavior to support individuals in the criminal justice system, analyze crime trends, or work with offenders to prevent reoffending.
Public Relations (PR) Officer: Sociology graduates can leverage their communication skills to work in public relations, managing a company's or organization's reputation. They may create communication strategies, write press releases, and engage with the media. Understanding societal trends and social behavior helps PR professionals address public perceptions and manage crises effectively.
Social Policy Advisor: Sociology graduates can contribute to the development of social policies by working for local governments, NGOs, or international organizations. As policy advisors, they analyze the effectiveness of existing policies and work to shape new initiatives aimed at addressing societal problems such as inequality, unemployment, or climate change.
Education and Teaching: For those interested in education, sociology graduates can become teachers, trainers, or education policy specialists. With additional training, they can teach sociology in secondary schools or work in adult education, helping others understand key social issues. Graduates can also pursue roles in educational research or curriculum development.
International Development Professional: Graduates with an interest in global social issues may choose to work for NGOs, humanitarian organizations, or international development agencies. They can focus on global issues such as poverty, human rights, health, and education in developing countries. Sociology graduates are equipped to assess the social impact of development programs and contribute to strategies that foster long-term change.
Market Research Analyst: Sociology graduates can work in market research, analyzing consumer trends, behaviors, and preferences. By applying their research skills and understanding of human behavior, they help companies design products and services that meet the needs of their target markets. Graduates may work for research firms, corporations, or advertising agencies.
Mental Health Professional: Those interested in mental health can pursue careers in mental health support services, working in roles such as counselors or mental health workers. Sociology graduates can assist in mental health crisis intervention, providing support and working to reduce stigma surrounding mental health issues in communities.
Nonprofit Sector Roles: Many sociology graduates go on to work in the nonprofit sector, managing social justice, environmental, or charitable projects. These roles involve strategic planning, fundraising, advocacy, and direct community engagement. Graduates may work for charities, social enterprises, or foundations focusing on various issues like homelessness, poverty, or human rights.
Sociology Lecturer or Academic: After further study and qualifications, some graduates may choose to pursue academic careers. They can work as lecturers or researchers at universities or academic institutions, contributing to the development of new sociological theories and helping educate the next generation of sociologists.
