Psychosocial Studies derived out of a desire to develop a programme in the Social Sciences that enables us to think about individuals' lived experiences not just from a psychological perspective or a sociological one but in a much more holistic way. Society shapes the way that individuals experience their worlds and, in turn, our inner worlds influence our thoughts, actions and relationships. The two facets are dynamically and intimately related to each other and to focus upon just one aspect severely limits our perspectives of human beings. To become a professional community practitioner, one needs not only a theoretical and ethical understanding of people's personal motivations, circumstances, beliefs, backgrounds, behaviours, cultures etc, but one also needs to critically consider the societal structures and systems that impact lives.

If you don’t meet the entry requirements for a BA, you can study this course as an ‘extended’ four-year programme. You'll begin with a Social Science Foundation year which will prepare you for a successful transition to the BA degree.

Are you interested in what makes people ‘tick’? Are you fascinated by how we develop a sense of self (I) and in relation to others (me)? and how culture and upbringing shapes a person’s thoughts, views, beliefs and actions in the world? Do you want to work with people to make a positive difference to you, to them and to communities?

This course is about the real world, engaging with a wide range of problems and issues including mental health, social care, racism, psychotherapies, class, families, gender, employment, youth, and ageing.

You’ll get to grips with the policies and systems of service user delivery, issues of power, oppression and social justice, as well as community development and human and social needs. Students will develop their understanding of reflexive practice and professional standards of conduct, performance and ethics in relation to governance which regulates working with diverse service users and change-makers. You will be taught by cutting-edge academics who bring their research, critiques and experiences to their teaching-we have some very lively discussions!

On this degree we use a range of assessment methods to ensure you have engaged with the learning outcomes of our modules.

Knowledge is assessed by essays, plans, presentations, journals, blogs, portfolios,photography, case studies.

Thinking skills are assessed by reflective logs, project work, poster presentations, research reports, case studies, responses to reflective questions.

Practical skills are assessed by research proposals, portfolios, blogs, presentations, and practice learning log, fieldwork and practice experience.

In addition to innovative digital research methods we offer dual delivery which combines traditional on-campus face-to-face teaching and online teaching simultaneously, allowing you to interact as if you were there in person. You can move smoothly between online and on campus teaching subject to your individual timetable (and health requirements).

You can interact and collaborate in person and online in any of these live-streamed sessions. Live-streamed sessions will also be recorded, so you can login when you want, playback and watch from the comfort of your home and whilst on the go.  

We are investing in key areas beyond your studies including our career services, library and well-being, to be available both face-to-face on campus and online with many of these available 24/7. We have new, modern library facilities on both campuses offering inspirational environments for study and research. Libraries contain resources in print and digital formats, a range of study spaces and dedicated librarians who can assist with your learning.  

You will be supported with any academic or subject related queries by an Academic Advisor, module leaders, former and current UEL students.  

If you need a bit of extra help with certain skills such as academic writing, maths or IT, our Skillzone and English for Academic Purposes we offer workshops, drop-in sessions and one-to-one appointments to help you achieve your potential.

You can receive advice and guidance on all aspects of the IT systems provided by the University from our IT Service Desks located on all three campuses. Our Student Support hubs in Docklands and Stratford feature centralised helpdesks to cater for your every need. UEL provides also support and advice for disabled students and those with specific learning needs.

Our graduates have gone on to further study and/or entered the following careers:

• Researcher
• Civil Service
• Advice/Welfare Work
• Voluntary Sector /NGO Officer
• Community Development Worker
• Housing Officer
• Equality And Diversity Officer
• Criminal Justice
• Social Worker
• Mental Health/Counselling/Psychotherapy
• Health Or Care Management
• NGO Founder
• Psychologist
• Volunteer Co-Ordinator
• Family Support
• Teacher/Lecturer/Education Roles
• Youth Worker
• Mediator
• Community Advocacy