Social Sciences
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What are the key challenges facing society in the 21st century? Lack of housing, drug addiction, discriminatory values, economic marginalisation, domestic violence, anti-social behaviour, disaffected youth and health inequalities? How do we support society's most disadvantaged people and decide how best to do that? Which evidence do we accept as most valuable in understanding and responding to social problems? What skills, knowledge and understanding do professionals need in order to support marginalised or vulnerable groups?
How do we encourage acceptance of diversity and difference in a changing society - same sex relationships, disability and an ageing population in which more than 50% of people in the UK will be over 50 by 2010? What is the best way to celebrate difference and to enshrine these ideas into current social policy and practice? What makes people conform to the rules laid down by society and what happens when they break those rules? Is there really such a thing as a criminal mind? Do we all behave in the same way all over the world?
If you're fascinated by questions like these, then one of our degree courses in the social sciences will help you to understand how society works, how social order is possible, and what happens when it all goes wrong.
Alternatively, choosing one of the caring professions means you will be helping to make the world a better place for the people in your care. You could show people how to cope with illness or disability and lead more independent lives. You could educate people about healthy lifestyles for themselves and their families. Or you could protect and support the more vulnerable members of society and help them to reach their full potential.
Several of our programmes have been designed with continued professional development in mind. A number also have professional accreditation. They are particularly relevant if you work in the field of health and social care, or work with families and young people and want to update your skills for the new multi-disciplinary and inter agency working practices. They build on the knowledge and experience you already have.
We work in partnership with local employers, voluntary organisations, local authorities and hospitals to offer you excellent opportunities to develop your experience and research while you study. Community organisations and health professionals contribute to the management and delivery of our degree programmes, ensuring that what you learn is relevant to your future career.
On all courses, you will be taught by experienced staff, many with international reputations in their research fields.
