MBA Masters of Business Administration
The MBA in Leadership at Bath Spa University is structured to provide a comprehensive u...
BA (Hons) Sociology and Politics
Newton Park
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Sociology and Politics program at Bath Spa University is a three-year, full-time course providing a vibrant and intellectually stimulating learning environment that bridges the study of society and governance. It is structured to progressively build foundational knowledge in core sociological and political science concepts in the first year, explore key sociological theories and political ideologies in the second, and culminate in specialized studies at the intersection of sociology and politics, along with an interdisciplinary research project in the final year. Students benefit from engaging lectures and seminars in both disciplines, lively debates on contemporary social and political issues, practical workshops on research methods, and collaborative projects. A key element involves fostering a deep understanding of how social structures influence political behavior and policy, and how political decisions impact social inequalities and social change. The program encourages students to develop their analytical skills, research proficiency in both disciplines, and their capacity for critical thinking about both social and political phenomena.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the BA (Hons) Sociology and Politics program is designed to provide a comprehensive and integrated understanding of the core areas of both disciplines. Core modules typically cover sociological theory, social inequalities, research methods in sociology, political theory, government and politics, and research methods in political science. As students progress, they often have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as political sociology, social policy, gender and politics, race and ethnicity, globalization, and social movements through elective modules that bridge the two fields. The program emphasizes the development of strong research skills in both sociology and political science, critical analysis of social structures and political systems, and the ability to synthesize sociological and political perspectives to understand complex issues. Students will engage in conducting sociological and political research, analyzing social patterns and political processes, and undertaking interdisciplinary projects that require them to integrate knowledge from both fields. The final year often includes a significant interdisciplinary research project and advanced seminars exploring current issues at the intersection of sociology and politics.
Research Focus: The BA (Hons) Sociology and Politics program at Bath Spa University benefits from a research-informed learning environment within both the School of Humanities and Cultural Industries and the Faculty of Business and Law. Faculty members in both disciplines are actively engaged in research related to areas such as political sociology, social policy, social justice, political participation, globalization, and social movements. This research informs the curriculum, ensuring that students are exposed to current academic debates, theoretical advancements, and empirical findings in both sociology and political science. Students are encouraged to develop their own research interests at the intersection of these fields through assignments and their final year interdisciplinary project, fostering independent learning and critical inquiry.
Industry Engagement: While the BA (Hons) Sociology and Politics program is primarily an academic degree, it cultivates highly transferable skills valued across various people-centered professions and research settings. The program may facilitate guest lectures by professionals from fields such as social research, policy analysis, government, and advocacy organizations who utilize insights from both sociology and politics in their work. Students develop strong analytical, communication, research, and critical thinking skills, which are highly sought after by employers in diverse sectors that require an understanding of both social dynamics and political processes.
Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Sociology and Politics program at Bath Spa University incorporates a global perspective by examining social inequalities, political systems, and global issues from a comparative and international standpoint. The curriculum includes the study of globalization, transnational social movements, international relations, and diverse political ideologies and governance structures around the world. The university's diverse international student body contributes to a global learning environment, fostering discussions and collaborations across different cultural perspectives on social and political phenomena. Furthermore, the program prepares graduates to engage with complex global challenges by providing them with the interdisciplinary tools necessary to understand the interconnectedness of social and political forces on a global scale.
Location
Newton Park
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 17670
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 65% 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 72.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- DET: A minimum overall score of 110.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Bath Spa University understands that financing higher education can be a challenge for international students, and to make studying in the UK more accessible, the university offers a range of scholarships. These scholarships are designed to support international students and recognize their academic achievements, helping to reduce the financial burden of tuition fees and living expenses.
International Scholarships: Bath Spa University offers a variety of international scholarships to help non-UK students cover part of their tuition fees. These scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate international students. The scholarships are typically awarded based on academic merit and the applicant’s potential to contribute to the university community.
Undergraduate Scholarships: For undergraduate international students, Bath Spa University offers scholarships that range in value and are awarded to high-achieving students. These scholarships are intended to provide financial assistance to those who demonstrate excellent academic performance and commitment to their studies.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Bath Spa University also provides country-specific scholarships for international students from particular regions. These scholarships are designed to encourage students from specific countries to study at Bath Spa University and contribute to the diverse international student community. Students from certain countries may be eligible for specific funding opportunities based on their nationality. The university’s website provides up-to-date information on country-specific scholarship availability.
Merit-Based Scholarships: Many of Bath Spa University's scholarships are merit-based, meaning they are awarded to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement or outstanding potential in their chosen field of study. Merit scholarships are typically awarded during the application process, and students do not need to apply separately for these awards.
External Scholarship Opportunities: In addition to the university’s internal scholarships, international students at Bath Spa University can also apply for external scholarships offered by government agencies, private organizations, or charitable foundations. Bath Spa University regularly updates a list of external scholarship opportunities that are available to international students. These scholarships may cover tuition fees, travel costs, and living expenses.
Graduates from the interdisciplinary BA (Hons) Sociology and Politics program at Bath Spa University develop a highly valuable and versatile skillset, positioning them for a wide range of fulfilling careers that leverage their understanding of both social structures and political processes. The program's unique combination of sociological and political insights equips graduates for diverse roles in government, policy analysis, social research, advocacy, and beyond.
Policy Analyst: Researching and analyzing social and political issues to advise government agencies or think tanks on policy development and implementation.
Civil Servant (Policy Roles): Working within government departments on policy formulation and analysis, utilizing their understanding of social dynamics and political systems.
Social Researcher: Designing and conducting research on social and political issues for government agencies, research institutions, or non-profit organizations.
Political Campaign Organizer: Working on political campaigns, utilizing their understanding of social trends and political behavior to mobilize voters and shape public opinion.
Advocacy Officer: Working for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) or campaign groups, advocating for social and political change.
International Relations Officer: Working for international organizations or government agencies, applying their understanding of global politics and social issues.
Community Organizer: Working with local communities to address social and political issues and promote civic engagement.
Think Tank Researcher: Conducting in-depth research on social and political issues to inform public debate and policy recommendations.
Public Affairs Consultant: Advising organizations on how to navigate the political and social landscape and engage with policymakers and the public.
Further Study (MA/MSc in Sociology, Political Science, Public Policy, or related interdisciplinary fields): Pursuing postgraduate degrees to specialize further and enhance career prospects in specific areas of their interdisciplinary expertise.
