BA (Hons) Education Studies and Sociology

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Education Studies and Sociology program provides a balanced and integrated study of the foundations of education and the social forces that shape educational experiences and outcomes. It emphasizes a critical and analytical approach to understanding how individuals learn, how educational systems function, and the profound influence of social structures and inequalities on educational access and achievement. The program encourages students to explore the theoretical underpinnings of education and the sociological perspectives on education as a social institution. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, discussions, and research-based activities, students develop a comprehensive understanding of both fields.

Curriculum: The curriculum is structured to provide a progressive learning experience, starting with foundational modules that introduce key theories and concepts in both education studies and sociology. In education studies, students explore learning theories, the history and sociology of education, and the principles of curriculum and assessment. In sociology, they study core sociological theories, social structures, culture, and socialization. As students advance, they engage with more specialized modules, such as inclusive education, adolescent development, the sociology of education, social inequality and education, educational policy, social justice in education, and sociological research methods. The program encourages students to explore the connections between education and sociology, understanding how social factors influence educational experiences and how education can contribute to social change. A significant component involves developing research skills through the design and execution of research projects, alongside critical analysis of educational and sociological theories and practices.

Research Focus: The University of Worcester fosters a research-informed teaching environment within its Institute of Education and the School of Humanities and Social Science, which directly benefits the BA (Hons) Education Studies and Sociology program. Faculty members are actively engaged in research across various areas of education and sociology, including inclusive education, social justice in education, the sociology of educational inequalities, youth transitions, and the impact of social policy on education. Students benefit from being taught by academics who are actively contributing to their fields and may have opportunities to engage with research through their studies and final-year dissertations. The program aims to cultivate a research-oriented mindset, encouraging students to critically evaluate existing research and contribute their own analytical insights to understanding education and society.

Industry Engagement: While the BA (Hons) Education Studies and Sociology program is primarily an academic degree, it recognizes the importance of connecting students with relevant professional fields. The curriculum may incorporate guest lectures from educators, social researchers, policy analysts, and individuals working in related sectors. The University of Worcester actively seeks to build and maintain links with local schools, educational organizations, social research institutions, and policy development agencies. This engagement may include opportunities for volunteering, observation placements, and career-focused workshops, providing students with valuable insights into potential career pathways and the practical application of their knowledge and skills.

Global Perspective: The University of Worcester welcomes a diverse international student body, enriching the learning experience within the BA (Hons) Education Studies and Sociology program. Education and social structures are inherently global phenomena, with diverse educational systems and varying patterns of social inequality across the world. The program encourages students to develop a comparative understanding of different educational approaches and the global dimensions of social issues and their impact on education. Discussions and analyses often incorporate international examples, and students have opportunities to interact with peers from various cultural backgrounds, fostering a global perspective essential for understanding the diverse landscape of education and society in the world today.