Are you keen to develop an understanding of society, social dynamics and modern life? Do you want to enhance your skills in research and analysis, and decision-making?

Social sciences help us to identify trends, explore relationships, challenge prejudices and gain a deeper understanding of the societies in which we live and work. This understanding equips us with the tools to question current thinking and inform future social policy.

This foundation year, which covers the areas of sociology, politics, and criminology, prepares you for degree level study in a range of social science subjects. Through engaging with real world issues, you’ll begin to develop the critical thinking, communication and problem solving skills that are essential for both further study and employment.

Following successful completion of the foundation year you will qualify to join any of the following degrees:

• BSc (Hons) Criminology
• BSc (Hons) Sociology
• BSc (Hons) Criminology and Sociology
• BSc (Hons) Professional Policing
• BA (Hons) International Relations and Politics
• BA (Hons) History and Politics

How will I learn on this Social Sciences foundation course?

The course offers a range of learning opportunities in a challenging, stimulating and dynamic environment. Core modules are aimed at developing your knowledge and understanding of theory and practice. You will also learn how to collect and analyse data as you explore the research methodologies used across the social science disciplines.

Teaching methods include lectures, small-group discussions and individual tutorials, guided study and independent learning. These will be supported by regular feedback sessions during which you can discuss your progress with a personal tutor and ask further questions.

The assessment strategy is both professionally and academically focused giving you the best opportunity to demonstrate your skills and knowledge. You might be asked to complete multiple choice tests, write essays, complete document analysis, understand qualitative and quantitative data, produce a presentation or compile a portfolio.

Who teaches this Social Sciences foundation course?

When you enrol on Northumbria’s Social Sciences Foundation year you will join a community of students, researchers and staff with enquiring minds and a real desire to improve people’s lives.

You will learn from enthusiastic and well-published lecturers who have established a high quality, research-led approach to teaching, combined with first class support. The academic team includes practising researchers and leaders in their field, many of whom are actively involved, through their research, with real issues that face the community.

Staff research and professional expertise inform all elements of teaching to help you develop the knowledge and skills needed to move on to undergraduate study.

Where will I study during my time at Northumbria?

You will be part of an exciting, vibrant and dynamic department which has received continued praise for the quality of its teaching and learning, student support and engagement, and the research rich environment it offers students.

Where appropriate we make use of technology to enhance teaching and extend your learning experiences beyond the traditional lecture/classroom environment. These include the eLearning Portal (Blackboard), which provides online access to module materials, video podcasts and online quizzes. We also use TurnitinUK (a web-based plagiarism detection tool) and electronic reading lists to improve your learning experience.

The teaching team are always keen to pioneer new approaches to engage you via smartphones, associated apps and social media.

How is research applied to teaching throughout my degree?

Research excellence is embedded into all of your modules. This contemporary and innovative approach to learning draws on the latest academic theory and practice to develop your understanding of research methods and to arouse your curiosity.

As you progress through the course you will learn how to conduct research, critically assess the work of others, investigate and solve problems and to translate findings into intellectual questions and arguments.

How does this course set me up for my future career?

The foundation year offers an insight into all of the essential disciplines within the area of Social Sciences. On successful completion you will be in the best position to choose the right undergraduate degree for you, whether your interests lie in Criminology, Sociology, Politics or Media.

Whatever route you decide to follow, you will move on with the characteristics of a Northumbria graduate. These include strong employability skills such as independent learning, critical reflection, collaboration, curiosity and problem solving.