Social Science

Social science is the collective study of human society in all its dimensions, drawing on the methods and insights of sociology, politics, economics, psychology, anthropology, and related disciplines to make sense of how people live together, how power operates, how inequalities are produced and maintained, and how social change happens. A social science degree equips you with the conceptual frameworks and research skills to investigate these questions rigorously, to engage with evidence critically, and to form well-grounded judgements about complex social realities. The discipline is particularly suited to people who want to understand the world in order to make a positive difference in it.

At the University of Brighton, the three-year full-time social science programme includes a sandwich year with a work placement, giving you the opportunity to apply your academic learning in a professional context and to build practical experience that enhances your employability. The curriculum covers sociological theory, research methods, political economy, and the sociology of areas such as inequality, identity, culture, and social policy. You will learn both quantitative and qualitative research methods, developing the ability to design and conduct your own research and to evaluate the work of others.

The work placement, embedded in the sandwich year structure, is an important feature: it means you graduate with not only an academic qualification but direct experience of working in a relevant professional environment.

Social science graduates go on to careers across a broad range of sectors. Work in social research, public policy, community development, social work, health and education services, and the voluntary and charity sectors draws directly on the knowledge and methods developed in the degree. Many graduates work in central and local government, in roles concerned with policy analysis, programme evaluation, and service design.

Journalism, communications, and advocacy are further options. The analytical and research skills developed in social science are also valued in the private sector, particularly in market research, human resources, and management consultancy. Postgraduate study in sociology, social policy, social work, public administration, or related fields is a common route for those who want to develop their expertise in a particular area.