Key points
• Study sociology, politics and modules in social policy.
• Apply what you learn to contemporary issues and problems in the real world.
• Specialise in subjects that suit your career aims and ambitions.
• Enhance your career prospects with work placement opportunities.

What is applied social science?
Applied social science draws on a range of disciplines to enable you to understand the contemporary world, to apply knowledge to social issues and problems, and to appreciate how political decisions affect people's lives.

This course

Gain knowledge of sociology, politics and policy and learn how to use this knowledge to address social problems and issues in the real world on this multi-disciplinary course. As the course progresses, you specialise in specific areas of study that best reflect your career aims and ambitions.

The course includes a strong emphasis on the contemporary, globalised world, and international issues. You acquire the skills necessary to research contemporary issues and to present the results of research in a clear, systematic and confident manner. You also study modules designed to enhance your employability, and opportunities to undertake a work placement or to study abroad.

This degree prepares you for careers in a range of areas including • work with a local authority • work for a charity or voluntary organisation • work with a political party • work with a campaigning organisation • work with a research consultancy organisation • police officer • research officer • or policy officer. Alternatively, it is a good way to prepare for post-graduate study in teaching, social work, probation or research.

You are taught by lecturers who are actively involved in research. Many of the staff who teach you have published in major journals, produced research reports on key issues and published books in their subject area. This commitment to research ensures that the course materials you use are up-to-date and well informed by recent studies.

During the first year, you gain a broad foundation of knowledge and skills in the social sciences.

The second year offers a flexible study programme in which you can choose to study modules focused on work and employability, alongside modules in sociology, politics and social policy.

In year three, you can specialise in subject areas that particularly interest you or are relevant for your future employment, or you can study modules from all three disciplines. You can also choose to complete a final year dissertation in a subject that interests you.

Key areas of study
Topic areas you study include • social issues and policy in a global context • culture, media and consumption • crime and the media • world politics • contemporary security studies.

City University of Hong Kong
This course is offered to students studying at City University of Hong Kong and Sheffield Hallam teaching staff make regular visits to Hong Kong, creating opportunities to make links between students on the two courses. If you are interested in studying this course in Hong Kong, contact City University of Hong Kong partner directly. See www.scope.edu/Home/Programmes/UndergraduateDegree/BAHonsAppliedSocialScience.aspx for more information