Psychology and Sociology
BSc / BSc ( Hons ) Public Sociology
This is the first undergraduate public sociology degree in Scotland . It opens the door to a wide range of careers by enabling you to make sense of complex and challenging social issues . It offers a study abroad opportunity *.
Public sociologists ask sceptical questions about the taken-forgranted nature of social inequalities and try to develop knowledge which can enhance the living conditions for the majority of people living within societies .
Public sociology is a useful branch of the social sciences , not least in terms of the ways in which it encourages a sense of social responsibility among those who study the discipline . Such an endorsement of the acute sense of social responsibility that has underpinned the development of the discipline of sociology has inevitably informed the substance and structure of the course .
On this course , students are encouraged to engage with a diversity of communities and to develop a sense of the ways in which a public sociological imagination can meaningfully intervene in real world political and social events . In a variety of modules , students are encouraged to reflect upon the ways in which sociological knowledge can effect real change in people ’ s everyday lives . You will find this course particularly suitable if you have an enquiring , questioning mind and you want to understand more about human societies , social problems , interactions and experiences .
In Years One and Two you will study a range of modules which will provide you with a thorough grounding in the key concepts , theories and schools of thought in sociology , as well as some modules in psychology .
* Subject to availability
You will develop a sound understanding of the historical development and contemporary applications of sociological knowledge . Specifically this will include how sociological knowledge can help us to make sense of the public issues and concerns which affect the communities within which we live , as well as understanding the philosophical debates that underpin sociological interpretations of the world around us . In addition , considerable emphasis is placed on enhancing a wide range of transferable skills , paying particular attention to improving your interpersonal and presentation skills , effective reading and writing , analytical thinking and critical reflection , as well as a sustained focus on the development of your research skills .
Years Three and Four are designed to enable you to develop in-depth understanding of a broad range of substantive debates within the discipline of sociology , eg you will refine your knowledge of sociological theory , research design and implementation , social movements and global change , sociologies of gender and sexuality , sociologies of liberation , and social policy and politics . Working closely with a member of academic staff , you will conduct your own independent research project in Year Four , in which you will be encouraged to bring together your knowledge of sociological theories and concepts , as well as refining your research skills . Your ability to understand the relationship between complex sociological theory , practical research and contemporary public issues and concerns will certainly enhance your employability on completion of this course .
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Structure
You can opt to study for an honours degree over four years or an ordinary degree over three years . You will complete a range of modules each year as outlined .
Teaching , learning and assessment
Please see the course entry on our website ( see URL on opposite page ) for full details of the learning , teaching and assessment activities for this course . Also check out the ‘ How we teach and how you ’ ll learn ’ section on pages 8-11 .
Year One modules
Introduction to Academia & the Sociological Imagination / Foundations of Psychology / Introduction to Psychology / Diversity , Identity & Wellbeing / Methods of Investigation
Year Two modules
Social Inquiry – Philosophy & Design / Social & Developmental Psychology / Psychological Literacy / Production & Consumption of Culture / Engaged Sociology
Year Three modules
Current Debates in Sociology / Sociology of Liberation / Interaction & Social Order / Poverty and Social Exclusion / Social Research – Theory & Practice / Changing World : Social Movement & Global Change