BA (Hons) Sociology

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% 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 80.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
• Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.

Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.

Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.

The BA (Hons) Sociology program at the University of Sussex prepares graduates for a wide range of career opportunities across various sectors. By providing a comprehensive understanding of societal structures, inequalities, and social change, the program equips students with the skills necessary to critically assess and address contemporary social issues. Graduates of the BA (Hons) Sociology program possess highly transferable skills in research, analysis, communication, and problem-solving, making them highly attractive to employers in both public and private sectors.

Social Research and Analysis: A key strength of the Sociology program is its emphasis on research methods and data analysis. Graduates can pursue careers as social researchers, policy analysts, or data analysts in a range of settings, including government departments, think tanks, non-profit organizations, and market research firms. These roles involve gathering and analyzing data related to societal trends, behaviors, and policies, and offering recommendations for social improvement or policy development.

Public Policy and Social Advocacy: Sociology graduates can work as policy advisors, public affairs specialists, or advocacy coordinators. These professionals work within governmental bodies, international organizations, or NGOs, advocating for social change and crafting policies aimed at tackling social issues such as poverty, inequality, healthcare, and education. Graduates with a passion for justice and advocacy can influence policy at local, national, and international levels.

Social Work and Community Development: Many graduates choose to work in social work, community development, or youth services. As social workers, graduates support individuals and families in need of assistance, including those experiencing issues such as homelessness, mental health challenges, or domestic violence. The program’s focus on social inequalities and human rights prepares students for roles in organizations that aim to create positive social change at the grassroots level.

Public Relations, Marketing, and Communications: The BA (Hons) Sociology program's emphasis on critical thinking, communication, and understanding societal dynamics is ideal for roles in public relations, marketing, and corporate communications. Graduates can pursue careers as PR consultants, communications managers, or brand strategists, helping companies navigate public perceptions, manage reputations, and communicate effectively with diverse audiences. These roles require the ability to understand and respond to social trends, media coverage, and public sentiment.

Human Resources and Organizational Development: Sociology graduates with an interest in workplace dynamics may find fulfilling roles in human resources (HR), organizational development, or employee relations. They can work as HR consultants, recruitment officers, or training and development specialists, applying their understanding of social behavior and organizational structures to improve workplace cultures, enhance employee engagement, and optimize organizational performance.

Education and Academia: Some graduates of the BA (Hons) Sociology program choose to continue their studies at the postgraduate level, pursuing qualifications in sociology, social work, education, or other related fields. This path can lead to careers in higher education as lecturers or researchers, or in secondary education as teachers. The program's strong research component prepares students for roles in academic institutions, where they can contribute to knowledge production and policy development.

Criminal Justice and Law: Sociology graduates can also explore careers in the criminal justice system, law enforcement, or legal professions. They can work as probation officers, criminologists, or legal researchers, applying their understanding of crime, deviance, and law to support individuals involved in the justice system or advocate for changes in criminal policies. Some may choose to pursue law degrees to become solicitors or barristers.

International Development and Humanitarian Work: The BA (Hons) Sociology program’s global focus makes it a strong foundation for careers in international development and humanitarian organizations. Graduates can work for NGOs, international development agencies, and charities, helping to improve conditions in developing countries or responding to crises such as refugee situations, natural disasters, or health emergencies. Positions in this field may include project coordinator, field officer, or program manager.

Media and Journalism: Graduates with an interest in media and journalism can leverage their sociological understanding to work as journalists, editors, or media analysts. They can focus on writing about social issues, inequality, and public policy, contributing to print, digital, and broadcast media. Sociology graduates' critical perspective on social issues makes them highly capable of creating insightful, investigative reports on topics like social justice, human rights, and political movements.

Entrepreneurship and Consultancy: Some graduates decide to apply their sociological skills by starting their own business or working as independent consultants. In this capacity, they may provide services to organizations or individuals looking for expertise in social trends, organizational behavior, or market analysis. Entrepreneurs may also focus on creating innovative solutions for social problems, whether through technology, social enterprises, or community-based projects.