Sociology BA Honours

Program Overview

The University of Westminster's Sociology BA Honours program offers an in-depth exploration of contemporary social issues, empowering students with a critical understanding of social structures and dynamics. Graduates emerge equipped for careers in social justice, education, research, and fields that prioritize human-centered approaches.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Sociology BA Honours program at the University of Westminster offers a dynamic and engaging exploration of contemporary social issues and debates. The program focuses on investigating the nature of societal structures and their impact on individuals' everyday lives and interactions. Students will delve into questions of power dynamics, social norms, and the influence of factors like social class, gender, race, ethnicity, and sexuality. The program aims to cultivate a sensitive understanding of diversity, fostering self-awareness and the ability to analyze one's own social location within a complex web of identities, cultures, beliefs, and values.

Outline:

Year 1:

• Identity and Society: This module provides an introduction to contemporary sociological debates, exploring concepts of identity and their formation within societal contexts.
• London Explored: This module focuses on researching London as a global city, examining its unique social and cultural landscape.
• Researching Society: This module equips students with essential research skills, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
• Thinking Sociologically: This module introduces students to key sociological theories and perspectives, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills.
• Gender and Sexuality Studies: This module explores the complexities of gender and sexuality, examining social constructions, power dynamics, and diverse experiences.

Year 2:

• Modern Social Theory: This module examines major sociological theories from the 19th and 20th centuries, exploring their relevance to contemporary social issues.
• Research Methods in Sociology and Criminology: This module provides advanced training in research methodologies, equipping students with the skills to conduct independent research.
• Work-based Learning: This module offers students the opportunity to gain practical experience through placements in relevant organizations, applying their sociological knowledge to real-world settings.
• Childhood Youth and Society: This module explores the social experiences of children and youth, examining their roles, identities, and challenges within society.
• Education Now: This module examines the contemporary education system, analyzing its structures, inequalities, and impact on individuals' lives.
• Emotional Life: This module explores the sociological dimensions of emotions, examining how emotions are shaped by social contexts and influence social interactions.
• Food, Taste and Consumption: This module examines the social and cultural significance of food, taste, and consumption, exploring their connections to identity, class, and power.
• Leisure, Pleasure and the Sociology of Fun: This module examines the social and cultural aspects of leisure, pleasure, and fun, exploring their meanings and significance in contemporary society.
• The City, Community, and Belonging: This module explores the social dynamics of urban spaces, examining concepts of community, belonging, and social exclusion in cities.

Placement Year:

• Students have the option to undertake a professional placement year in industry, gaining valuable work experience and applying their sociological skills in a professional setting.
• Alternatively, students can choose to study abroad at one of Westminster's partner institutions, expanding their global perspectives and cultural understanding.

Year 3:

• Contemporary Social Theory: This module examines contemporary sociological theories and debates, exploring their relevance to current social issues.
• Sociology Dissertation: This module allows students to conduct an independent research project in an area of their choosing, culminating in a dissertation that demonstrates their research skills and critical thinking abilities.
• Families, Intimacies and Personal Life: This module explores the changing nature of families and intimate relationships, examining their social and cultural significance.
• Gender, Education and Identity: This module examines the intersection of gender, education, and identity, exploring how these factors shape individuals' experiences and opportunities.
• Making Bodies: This module explores the social construction of bodies, examining how bodies are shaped by cultural norms, power relations, and social practices.
• Making the News: This module analyzes the role of media in shaping public perceptions and constructing social realities, focusing on the production and consumption of news.
• Social movements, media and society: This module examines the role of social movements in shaping social change, exploring their use of media and communication strategies.
• Sociology of Religion: This module explores the sociological dimensions of religion, examining its social functions, beliefs, and practices.
• The Cultural Politics of Race: This module examines the cultural politics of race, exploring how race is constructed, contested, and used to shape social relations.

Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods to cater to different learning styles, including:

• Essays: Written assignments that require students to demonstrate their critical thinking, analytical skills, and ability to synthesize information.
• Exams: Written assessments that test students' knowledge and understanding of key concepts and theories.
• Portfolios: Collections of student work that showcase their progress and development throughout the program.
• Research Reports: Written assignments that require students to conduct research, analyze data, and present their findings in a clear and concise manner.
• Projects: Practical assignments that allow students to apply their sociological knowledge to real-world problems or issues.
• Reviews: Critical analyses of existing research or literature, demonstrating students' ability to evaluate and synthesize information.

Teaching:

The program is taught by a team of active researchers who are experts in their respective fields. The teaching methods emphasize active student learning, incorporating a variety of approaches:

• Lectures: Formal presentations that introduce key concepts, theories, and research findings.
• Seminars: Smaller group discussions that encourage student participation, critical thinking, and debate.
• Workshops: Practical sessions that provide students with hands-on experience in research methods, data analysis, or other relevant skills.
• Problem-based learning: Activities that challenge students to apply their knowledge to real-world problems, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Blended learning: A combination of online and face-to-face learning activities, providing flexibility and access to a wider range of resources.

Careers:

Graduates of the Sociology BA Honours program are well-equipped for a range of people-centered careers, including:

• Charitable and NGO sector: Working for organizations that address social issues, promoting social justice, and advocating for marginalized communities.
• Education: Teaching, research, or policy development in educational institutions.
• Government: Working in government agencies or departments, contributing to policy development and implementation.
• Journalism and media: Reporting on social issues, analyzing social trends, and contributing to public discourse.
• Social work: Providing direct services to individuals and families, addressing social problems, and promoting well-being.
• The program offers a range of specialist option modules, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests and career aspirations.
• The program provides students with the opportunity to develop strong presentational, interpersonal, and communication skills, preparing them for a variety of professional roles.
• The program is led by Dr Francis Ray White, a dedicated and passionate Course Leader who is committed to ensuring students receive the support they need to succeed.
• The program is supported by a dedicated and experienced staff team, including Dr Ben Pitcher, Dr Naomi Rudoe, Dr Umit Cetin, Dr Adam Eldridge, Dr Emily Falconer, Professor Val Gillies, Dr Celia Jenkins, Dr David Khabaz, Dr Hilde Stephansen, Dr Melahat Sahin-Dikmen, and Dr Jennifer Fraser.

• UK tuition fee: £9,250 per academic year
• International tuition fee: £15,400 per academic year