BA Sociology with Psychology Degree

Overview & facilities

BA Sociology with Psychology Degree in London is designed to meet the needs of those students who would like to supplement their sociological understanding of contemporary society, with an opportunity to explore the relationship between society and human psychology. Sociology as a discipline is unique in its breadth of enquiry. Quite simply, sociologists study all elements of social life. In doing so, sociologists work within an academic field occupied by other established disciplines, amongst them psychology.

Sociology with Psychology Degree aims to

• Develop an understanding of major concepts and themes in contemporary sociology and psychology and an ability to relate them to life in the community.
• Develop a critical approach to their studies in sociology and psychology, evaluating theory and evidence accordingly
• Develop autonomous learning and research skills which provide a basis for lifelong learning
• Foster skills in written, oral and IT communication
• Develop a range of analytic and graduate skills adequate for a range of professional and life situations.

Course specification

• Excellent Work Experience opportunities in the Community or NGO organisations in London
• Research active departments
  

Content & modules

BA (Hons.) Sociology with Psychology is suitable for those students who wish to supplement their sociological expertise with an understanding of how psychological approaches may be used to support an understanding of a range of aspects of contemporary social life.

This programme is based at our flagship Hendon campus.

Modules

• Year 1

  Contemporary Social Structures (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module introduces first year students to the study of contemporary social structures and the specialised institutions and associated organizations which comprise such. In particular, the module examines the established institutions which regulate the various activities that make up social life and help shape the culture and beliefs of society. The interrelationship between different institutions, organizations and social groups is also explored.

  Foundation Psychology (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module provides a basic general introduction to developmental, cognitive, biological, individual differences and social psychology. The characteristic approaches adopted within these areas of psychology are explored and students are encouraged to adopt a reflective and critical perspective on the subject matter covered.

  Skills and Methods in Criminology and Sociology (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills required for their level 2 and level 3 studies. Working through the medium of substantive criminological and sociological materials, this module aims to equip students with the required level one learning they will need for further study, and introduces them to the building-blocks of academic work, knowledge and understanding in criminology and sociology.

  Thinking Sociologically (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  The primary aim is to give students the opportunity to learn to think and express themselves sociologically. Students will be introduced to the nature of sociological inquiry: firstly by exploring the use of sociological thinking to everyday life; and secondly, through an introduction to the sociological thinking of the principal founders of the discipline, Marx, Weber, and Durkheim.

• Year 2

  Approaches to Research in Social Science (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  The module is designed for students studying programmes in the social sciences, particularly in sociology and criminology. The module aims to develop students critical evaluation of the range of appropriate quantitative and qualitative research methodologies available, and the underlying philosophical and ethical principles of social research. The module aims to make clear the links between theory, method and data as well as defining what data is within different research paradigms and the various ways of generating and analysing it. The module aims to evaluate and critique published research. Emphasis is placed on developing awareness and critique of secondary sources and especially the use of official statistics. The module will also provide an overview of the theoretical basis of social research. The module also aims to prepare students for the development of a proposal for their final year project. Throughout the module students will apply the various components of research methods to the specific subject of the programme they are studying.

  Global Sociology (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module takes as its focus the global dimensions of the contemporary world and introduces students to a range of substantive sociological topics within an overarching global framework of understanding. In particular, the module aims to develop students knowledge and understanding of the emergence of global society and explore different issues, debates and interpretations surrounding its social, cultural, political and economic structuring and manifestation.

  Social Knowledges and Critiques (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module gives students the opportunity to: a develop a critical knowledge and detailed understanding of key issues and developments in modern and contemporary social theory; b examine the relevance of social theory to understanding contemporary social life; and c enhance learning, communication, and teamworking skills.

• Year 3

  Applied Social Psychology (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  The module aims to explore the application of psychology to social problems in the areas of crime, conflict and violence, taking into account individual, group and social factors. It considers how individuals and groups become involved in, and perpetuate, these problematic behaviours, and also considers the consequences for victims, government and justice responses, and approaches to prevention. The module aims a to extend students understanding of social psychology through its application to social problems facing modern societies; b to develop students aptitudes for identifying pathways for social change through the understanding the psychological processes implicated in social problems.

  Dissertation (60 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module aims to synthesise learning from sociology programmes of study providing an opportunity for students to study independently and investigate a sociological topic in depth, according to the needs of the Sociology Benchmark Statement. It fosters academic curiosity, an inquiry based approach, the employment and application of research skills thus facilitating the development of a higher level of theorising. Students will select a topic of personal interest on which they wish to undertake a substantial in-depth study. They will manage their own learning during this module, with the support of an allocated supervisor for this period of independent study. Further, students in sociology will have sociology specific dissertation workshops to support their independent study; and formative assessments throughout the dissertation year to assist with the development and completion of the dissertation.

  History of Social Science, Madness and Crime (30 Credits) - Optional

  To enable students to undertake independent research, supported by staff and fellow students, into a chosen aspect of the historical development of social science theory, including in particular sociology, criminology and psychology. To provide opportunities to inter-relate sociological, criminological and psychological theories, or aspects of theories. To provide opportunities to relate theory development with historical reasoning and research To develop a creative research abilities, b theoretical understanding, c intellectual self-determination d academic dialogue e the ability to create academic writing that can be shared with others.

  Media and Society (30 Credits) - Optional

  This module aims to provide students with a critical knowledge of sociologically informed theoretical perspectives on the relations between mass media and society. It aims to provide a historical perspective on media technologies and the related processes of social change. It also aims to introduce students to a range of issues, debates around the social, political and cultural implications of changing media technologies for contemporary British society in a global context.

  Race, Ethnicity, Nation (30 Credits) - Optional

  Within a context of rapid global change, societies are being transformed in ways that have brought related questions of race, ethnicity and nation to the fore with renewed significance. This module aims to enable students to critically explore the theories, concepts, debates and empirical evidence associated with the areas of race, ethnicity and nation. Additionally, the module aims to enable students to examine a range of contemporary social problems, and understand the manner in which these have become imbued with racial, ethnic and/or national significance.

  Work, Leisure and Consumption (30 Credits) - Optional

  The module gives students the opportunity to: a acquire a critical knowledge and understanding of work, leisure, and consumption in contemporary society, and their interconnections; b examine some key contemporary issues and debates concerning paid and unpaid work, consumerism and consumer society , and the uses and organization of leisure ; c develop and enhance learning, communication, and teamworking skills

Download the course specification

Entry & applying

We normally make offers on a minimum of 240 UCAS tariff points, plus GCSE Maths and English Language at grade C. BTEC National Diploma/International Baccalaureate/Advanced Progression Diplomas at equivalent tariff. Access to HE - Pass. Applications from candidates without formal qualifications are welcomed. Additionally overseas students whose first language is not English will need a qualification that demonstrates competence in English, eg IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 550 paper-based or 213 computer based.

For a comprehensive list of qualifications accepted by Middlesex, see further information under entry requirements

English language requirements

You must have competence in English language and we normally require Grade C GCSE or an equivalent qualification. The most common English Language requirements for international students are IELTS 6.0 (with minimum 5.5 in all four components) or TOEFL internet based 72 (with at least 17 in listening & writing, 20 in speaking and 18 in reading).

Middlesex also offers an Intensive Academic English course (Pre-Sessional) that ranges from 5-17 weeks depending on your level of English. Successful completion of this course would meet English language entry requirements. For more information on applying for the pre-sessional please email english@mdx.ac.uk.

Entry into year two or three (transfer students)

If you have achieved a qualification such as a foundation degree or HND, or have gained credit at another university, you may be able to enter a Middlesex course in year two or three. For full details of how this works see transfer students

UK/EU applicants with existing higher education qualifications

If you have already been awarded a qualification at the same level as the course you are applying for, you may not be eligible for a tuition fee loan, see fees and funding for more information.

Applying

Applications for UK and EU students should be made to UCAS – the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. The institution code for Middlesex is M80, and the code name is MIDDX. You also need the code for the course you wish to apply for – this is found in the 'at a glance' box above.

International students from outside the EU can make a direct application.  We have a network of regional offices across the world to assist you with your application.  They have worked with people from your region coming to Middlesex before and can help. Read more on international applications

Fees & funding

The tuition fee for the 2012/2013 academic year for UK/EU students is £9,000.
The tuition fee for the 2012/2013 academic year for International students is £10,400.

Click here to find out more about fees, funding and our scholarships in 2012.

Careers & placements

Sociology and Psychology are amongst the oldest and most established of the social sciences within Higher education. Both disciplines carry much esteem and combined degrees in these subjects are highly regarded in both the public and private sectors.

Graduates in each of these subjects have some of the best post-graduation employment records of all disciplines, as the breadth of skills developed within such a programme is attractive to potential employers.

Graduates in sociology and psychology have gone on to careers in research, teaching, management and a range of strategic roles within both the public and private sectors.