Study Social Science in the UK

A social science degree focuses on the study of human behaviour and society at a variety of levels

The social sciences encompass various disciplines, including sociology, psychology, anthropology, economics, political science, and more. What unites these subjects is a shared focus on understanding the workings of human society.

Within a social science degree, individuals can specialise in a particular sphere, such as law or finance. This involves delving deeply into these fields' intricacies and exploring their theories, principles, and practical applications. By acquiring specialised knowledge, individuals become experts in their chosen domain and contribute to shaping and improving those sectors.

Alternatively, one can take a more holistic approach to a social science degree, seeking to understand broader questions about society, social change, and the relationships between individuals and the state. This involves exploring inequality, social justice, power dynamics, cultural practices, and societal institutions. It requires examining the interconnectedness of various factors influencing human behaviour and social interactions.

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Types of Social Science Course

Bachelor of Social Science

A bachelor of social science degree offers students a captivating exploration into the intricacies of human behaviour, the dynamics of societies, and the fascinating interplay of social issues. This enriching programme encompasses a range of disciplines, including sociology, psychology, anthropology, political science, and economics. Through this multidimensional approach, students develop a discerning lens to critically analyse societal structures, cultural diversity, and the complexities of social inequalities. Armed with research, communication, and problem-solving skills, graduates are poised for diverse career opportunities. With a bachelor of social science, individuals can embark on fulfilling paths in social work, counselling, community development, policy analysis, human resources, and research.

• Course fees: £15,000 to £40,000 per year
• Course duration: 3-4 years
• International entry requirements: Academic qualifications equivalent to UK A-levels or an International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma. English language proficiency, demonstrated through English language tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or Pearson PTE, is also necessary.

Master of Social Science

A master of social science opens the doors to an exciting realm of knowledge and expertise, delving deep into the intricate workings of human behaviour, societal systems, and the interconnected nature of social issues. This advanced degree empowers students to navigate the complexities of our ever-changing world with a critical and analytical lens. Through interdisciplinary studies spanning sociology, psychology, anthropology, and political science, students gain profound insights into societal structures, cultural dynamics, and the pressing challenges of social inequalities.

• Course fees: £12,000 to £35,000 per year
• Course duration: 1-2 years
• International entry requirements: A relevant undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification, with a minimum grade or GPA requirement. English language proficiency is also essential, which can be demonstrated through standardised tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or Pearson PTE.

PhD in Social Science

A social science PhD represents the pinnacle of intellectual pursuit and scholarly excellence. Doctoral students engage in rigorous research, pushing the boundaries of knowledge and making groundbreaking contributions to their chosen disciplines, such as sociology, psychology, anthropology, and political science. With advanced research skills, critical thinking abilities, and an unwavering commitment to intellectual inquiry, PhD graduates in social science embark on distinguished careers as influential scholars, esteemed professors, thought leaders, and catalysts for transformative change in academia, research institutions, policy arenas, and beyond.

• Course fees: £12,000 to £30,000 per year
• Course duration: 3-4 years
• International entry requirements: A relevant master's degree or equivalent qualification, with a research proposal outlining the intended research area and objectives. English language proficiency is also essential, which can be demonstrated through standardised tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or Pearson PTE.

Please note the above are expected average fees but will vary depending on the university.

Scholarships

• Commonwealth Scholarships: The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission offers scholarships specifically designed for students from Commonwealth countries. These highly regarded humanities scholarships cover various expenses, including tuition fees, living costs, travel, and other study-related expenditures.
• Rhodes Scholarships: The Rhodes Trust awards scholarships to outstanding students from across the globe, allowing them to pursue social science studies at the prestigious University of Oxford. Rhodes Scholarships cover tuition fees and living expenses and offer a generous stipend for personal needs.
• British Council GREAT Scholarships: In collaboration with UK universities, the British Council provides GREAT Scholarships for international students in diverse fields, including social sciences. These scholarships offer financial support to help cover tuition fees and contribute towards living expenses, facilitating an enriching academic journey.
• The University of Nottingham Faculty of Social Sciences Alumni Scholarship Awards: These scholarships are designed for humanities students. The awards aim to provide financial support throughout their three-year course, amounting to £4,500.
• The University of Sheffield Faculty of Social Sciences scholarships: The university offers 40 scholarships worth £2,500 each for home students starting a postgraduate course. These scholarships are specifically for students pursuing studies in Geography.

Jobs and Careers

Social science graduates possess a wealth of exciting career opportunities in the UK and globally, including:

• Social Researcher: Delve into the fascinating realm of social research, conducting studies, gathering data, and unravelling insights into pressing social issues. You can work in research institutions, government agencies, non-profits, or private research firms.
• Policy Analyst: Make a tangible impact by evaluating the effectiveness of policies and providing valuable recommendations for enhancement.
• Social Worker: Opportunities abound in government agencies, hospitals, schools, and non-profit organisations where you can make a difference in people's lives.
• Community Development Officer: Engage with communities, identify their unique needs, and spearhead transformative programmes and initiatives as a community development officer.
• International Development Specialist: Embrace the global stage and tackle pressing global challenges as an international development specialist.
• Public Relations (PR) Specialist: Leverage your excellent communication skills and critical thinking abilities to excel in the dynamic PR field.
• Journalism and Media: Channel your research, analytical skills, and passion for social and political issues into the field of journalism.

Salary

The salary range for individuals with a social science degree in the UK can vary significantly depending on the specific job role, level of experience, location, and industry. It's important to note that salaries can differ widely across different occupations within the social sciences. Here's a general overview of salary ranges for some common career paths:

• Social Researcher: £20,000 - £45,000+
• Policy Analyst: £25,000 - £52,000+
• Human Resources (HR): £28,000 - £70,000+
• Social Worker: £24,000 - £50,000+
• Market Researcher: £20,000 - £40,000+

Where can I study Social Science in the UK?

To learn more about the best social science courses in the UK, find details on the top-ranking Social Science universities in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024 below:

1. University of Oxford
2. University of Cambridge
3. London School of Economics and Political Science
4. University College London
5. London Business School
6. University of Manchester
7. King's College London
8. University of Warwick
9. Imperial College London
10. University of Edinburgh

Study Social Science in the UK

If you want to study a social science course in the UK, arrange your free consultation today. Remember, the Premium Service will guarantee you at least one offer from a UK university.

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FAQ

What can I do with a social science degree in the UK?

With a social science degree in the UK, you can pursue various career paths such as social researcher, policy analyst, human resources specialist, social worker, market researcher, community development officer, international development specialist, PR specialist, educator, journalist, and more.

What are social science subjects in the UK?

Social science subjects in the UK include sociology, psychology, anthropology, political science, economics, geography, criminology, social policy, international relations, and social work.

Why study social sciences in the UK?

Studying social sciences in the UK offers numerous benefits. UK universities are renowned for their academic excellence, research opportunities, and world-class faculty, and a multicultural environment fosters diverse perspectives and experiences, enriching the learning process.

Are social sciences a BSc or BA?

Social sciences can be pursued as a Bachelor of Science (BSc) or a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree, depending on the specific university and programme. Some disciplines, like psychology or economics, are more commonly offered as BSc programmes, while others, like sociology or political science, are available as BSc and BA programmes.

Which is the most popular social science major?

The popularity of social science majors can vary, influenced by individual interests and societal trends. However, subjects like psychology, sociology, and economics are often considered popular social science majors due to their broad applicability and relevance to various career paths.

What is the average salary of a sociologist?

On average, a sociologist in the UK earns between £25,000 and £40,000 per year. However, salaries can differ significantly, with more experienced sociologists or those in senior positions earning higher salaries, potentially exceeding £50,000 annually.