BA (Hons) Sociology with a Year Abroad
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Arts
- UCAS Course Code
- L30A
- Typical Offer
- ABB
- Contextual Offer
- BBC
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2024
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
You want to understand how society works – why inequality persists, how identities are formed, and the ways that power operates within social institutions.
Sociology at the UEA develops a sophisticated understanding of social and cultural systems, with a key focus on social justice and transformational social change.
If you are fascinated by the way society functions. and are driven by a desire to change the world, then this is the degree for you.
Sociology at the UEA is a hugely diverse degree, with options to suit all manner of interests. Whether you are interested in the sociology of children and families, criminology, the sociology of social change, or digital sociology. Sociology at the UEA is all about empowering you to study the sociology that matters most to you.
On this course, you’ll develop your understanding of sociology, explore areas you’re already interested in and discover new passions.
The course links modules across the university, designed around four key pathways, emphasising specific contemporary social issues which connect to employment opportunities. You can explore:
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Criminology
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The sociology of children and families
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The sociology of social change
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Digital sociology
You can focus on specific modules to build your depth of expertise in a pathway; or select modules which interconnect in ways which build up a personalised pathway around your interests.
This course brings together sociology and social policy experts across many schools in both the humanities and social sciences. Our academics have a national and international reputation for research, policy and practice. They share a common vision of the sociological imagination for understanding and transforming lives.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
You’ll spend your third year studying abroad at one of our partner universities before returning to UEA for your final year.
For further details, visit our Study Abroad pages.
Study and Modules
Structure
In your first year, you’ll study five compulsory modules which will develop your understanding of sociology and create a foundation from which you can shape your sociological interests.
You’ll discover how sociology has developed. You will grapple with how concepts have been created, and the contested nature of knowledge. You’ll be introduced to the process of research and evidence.
Two of the compulsory modules will introduce you to the four pathways. At the end of the first year, you’ll choose from a range of options within these pathways, from childhood through to political ideas, the media, wellbeing, and crime, to study in the second year.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Teaching
The academic year consists of two semesters. In addition to more traditional lecture and seminar classes, many of our modules adopt innovative and creative approaches to learning and teaching, including exploring sociological ideas through visual representations of art at the Sainsbury Centre, creating zines, producing your own materials to share learning, or applying sociological skills and knowledge to case studies. While lectures are attended by all students taking a specific module, seminars are held in smaller groups where you can interact more directly with the tutor and your peers to address and discuss different topics.
Academic advising
Throughout your studies, you’ll have a personal academic adviser who will be able to support and advise you on your studies and developing career ambitions. We also seek to provide a supportive learning community through course-wide activities, such as weekly staff-student community drop -in sessions, and a programme of extra curricula events that will help develop your sociological thinking and help you to feel part of the community of sociologists here at the UEA.
Independent study
Alongside your taught sessions, you’ll be required to work independently, and with your peers in groups. Lecturers will ask you to complete preparatory reading and tasks and bring these with you to sessions. You’ll also be required to submit formative work, where lecturers will give you feedback to help you improve, and summative work, which contributes to your overall mark. Your independent study tasks are designed by the course team to help you to develop as an independent and self-regulated learner.
Assessment
You’ll experience a range of assessment methods which are used to check your progress and ensure your academic development. These include coursework essays, reports, projects, presentations and examinations.
You will experience a range of assessment methods which are used to check your progress and ensure your academic development. These include coursework essays, reports, projects, presentations and examinations.
Assessment:
You’ll be assessed based on coursework and, for some modules, project and examination results. For each module, you will have the chance to undertake ‘formative’ work which will help you to develop the skills you need to approach the assignments. Your final year includes an assessment through a dissertation which allows you to carry out an in-depth exploration of a sociological issue that you find fascinating.
The range of assessment formats reflects the variety of teaching and learning activities you'll encounter. In addition to traditional essay style work, our modules offer you the chance to develop skills in communicating ideas through a variety of creative and applied ways.
Feedback:
You will receive feedback on formative work to help you improve your work in areas such as your use of evidence and argument before your final formal or “summative” assignments. Feedback on summative work will help you to reflect on your learning so you can build your knowledge and skills as you progress through the degree. We encourage you to discuss your feedback with your tutors so you can monitor your progress and take on helpful advice.
Structure
In your second year, you’ll study compulsory modules designed to consolidate your core understanding of sociology. You'll study how qualitative and participatory research helps build sociological knowledge, and have the opportunity to develop your quantitative methods skills too.
In addition to your compulsory modules, you will take a range of optional modules. These specialist modules are arranged and designed to enable you to create specific routes through the degree. You will be encouraged to consider how these pathways may relate to your career plans.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 60)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Teaching
The academic year consists of two semesters. In addition to more traditional lecture and seminar classes, many of our modules adopt innovative and creative approaches to learning and teaching, including exploring sociological ideas through visual representations of art at the Sainsbury Centre, creating zines, producing your own materials to share learning, or applying sociological skills and knowledge to case studies. While lectures are attended by all students taking a specific module, seminars are held in smaller groups where you can interact more directly with the tutor and your peers to address and discuss different topics.
Academic advising
Throughout your studies, you’ll have a personal academic adviser who will be able to support and advise you on your studies and developing career ambitions. We also seek to provide a supportive learning community through course-wide activities, such as weekly staff-student community drop -in sessions, and a programme of extra curricula events that will help develop your sociological thinking and help you to feel part of the community of sociologists here at the UEA.
Independent study
Alongside your taught sessions, you’ll be required to work independently, and with your peers in groups. Lecturers will ask you to complete preparatory reading and tasks and bring these with you to sessions. You’ll also be required to submit formative work, where lecturers will give you feedback to help you improve, and summative work, which contributes to your overall mark. Your independent study tasks are designed by the course team to help you to develop as an independent and self-regulated learner.
Assessment
You’ll experience a range of assessment methods which are used to check your progress and ensure your academic development. These include coursework essays, reports, projects, presentations and examinations.
You will experience a range of assessment methods which are used to check your progress and ensure your academic development. These include coursework essays, reports, projects, presentations and examinations.
Assessment:
You’ll be assessed based on coursework and, for some modules, project and examination results. For each module, you will have the chance to undertake ‘formative’ work which will help you to develop the skills you need to approach the assignments. Your final year includes an assessment through a dissertation which allows you to carry out an in-depth exploration of a sociological issue that you find fascinating.
The range of assessment formats reflects the variety of teaching and learning activities you'll encounter. In addition to traditional essay style work, our modules offer you the chance to develop skills in communicating ideas through a variety of creative and applied ways.
Feedback:
You will receive feedback on formative work to help you improve your work in areas such as your use of evidence and argument before your final formal or “summative” assignments. Feedback on summative work will help you to reflect on your learning so you can build your knowledge and skills as you progress through the degree. We encourage you to discuss your feedback with your tutors so you can monitor your progress and take on helpful advice.
Structure
You’ll spend your third studying abroad at one of our partner universities before returning to UEA for your final year.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Teaching
The academic year consists of two semesters. A typical module is taught through a combination of lectures and seminars each week. While lectures are attended by all students taking a specific module, seminars are held in smaller groups where you can interact more directly with the tutor and your peers to address and discuss different topics.
Academic advising
Throughout your studies, you’ll have an adviser who will be able to support and advise you on your studies and developing career ambitions.
Independent study
Alongside your taught sessions, you’ll be required to work independently, and with your peers in groups. Lecturers will ask you to complete preparatory reading and tasks and bring these with you to sessions. You’ll also be required to submit formative work, where lecturers will give you feedback to help you improve, and summative work, which contributes to your overall mark. Your independent study tasks are designed by the course team to help you to develop as an independent and self-regulated learner.
Assessment
You’ll experience a range of assessment methods which are used to check your progress and ensure your academic development. These include coursework essays, reports, projects, presentations and examinations.
You will experience a range of assessment methods which are used to check your progress and ensure your academic development. These include coursework essays, reports, projects, presentations and examinations.
Assessment:
You’ll be assessed based on coursework and, for some modules, project and examination results. For each module, you will have the chance to undertake ‘formative’ work which will help you to develop the skills you need to approach the assignments. Your final year includes an assessment through a dissertation which allows you to carry out an in-depth exploration of a sociological issue which you find fascinating.
The balance of assessment by coursework and exam depends on the modules you choose, but on average Level 4 is 80% coursework and 20% exam, Level 5 is 80% and 20% exam and Level 6 is 80% coursework and 20% exam.
Feedback:
You will receive feedback on formative work to help you improve your work in areas such as your use of evidence and argument before your final formal or “summative” assignments. Feedback on summative work will help you to reflect on your learning so you can build your knowledge and skills as you progress through the degree. We encourage you to discuss your feedback with your tutors so you can monitor your progress and take on helpful advice.
Structure
In the fourth year, you’ll complete a compulsory dissertation which will enable you to explore an area of sociology which you are particularly enthusiastic about.
In addition to your dissertation, you will also take a range of modules which further advance your specialist knowledge and are designed to help you prepare for developing a constructive and stimulating career.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 60)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Teaching
The academic year consists of two semesters. A typical module is taught through a combination of lectures and seminars each week. While lectures are attended by all students taking a specific module, seminars are held in smaller groups where you can interact more directly with the tutor and your peers to address and discuss different topics.
Academic advising
Throughout your studies, you’ll have an adviser who will be able to support and advise you on your studies and developing career ambitions.
Independent study
Alongside your taught sessions, you’ll be required to work independently, and with your peers in groups. Lecturers will ask you to complete preparatory reading and tasks and bring these with you to sessions. You’ll also be required to submit formative work, where lecturers will give you feedback to help you improve, and summative work, which contributes to your overall mark. Your independent study tasks are designed by the course team to help you to develop as an independent and self-regulated learner.
Assessment
You’ll experience a range of assessment methods which are used to check your progress and ensure your academic development. These include coursework essays, reports, projects, presentations and examinations.
You will experience a range of assessment methods which are used to check your progress and ensure your academic development. These include coursework essays, reports, projects, presentations and examinations.
Assessment:
You’ll be assessed based on coursework and, for some modules, project and examination results. For each module, you will have the chance to undertake ‘formative’ work which will help you to develop the skills you need to approach the assignments. Your final year includes an assessment through a dissertation which allows you to carry out an in-depth exploration of a sociological issue which you find fascinating.
The balance of assessment by coursework and exam depends on the modules you choose, but on average Level 4 is 80% coursework and 20% exam, Level 5 is 80% and 20% exam and Level 6 is 80% coursework and 20% exam.
Feedback:
You will receive feedback on formative work to help you improve your work in areas such as your use of evidence and argument before your final formal or “summative” assignments. Feedback on summative work will help you to reflect on your learning so you can build your knowledge and skills as you progress through the degree. We encourage you to discuss your feedback with your tutors so you can monitor your progress and take on helpful advice.
Entry Requirements
- A Levels
- ABB. If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer alongside an A in the EPQ.
- T Levels
- Obtain an overall Pass including a B in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. Acceptable subjects are: Education and Childcare, and Health.
- BTEC
- Extended Diploma: DDM excluding BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration. See below for accepted subjects and combinations.
- Contextual Offer
A Level – BBC
BTEC L3 Extended Diploma – DMM
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Scottish Highers
- AAABB.
- Scottish Advanced Highers
- BCC. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- 3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3.
- Access to HE Diploma
- Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3 .
- International Baccalaureate
- 32 points.
- GCSE
You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
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IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
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- Interviews
Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Hub. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required, the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Intakes
This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year.
Additional Information or Requirements
Extended Diploma: DDM.
Diploma: DD plus B at A-Level.
Extended Certificate: D plus BB at A-Level.
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, or are taking a combination of qualifications, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.
International Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree:
International Foundation in Pharmacy Health and Life Science
International Foundation in Mathematics and Actuarial Sciences
International Foundation in Physical Sciences and Engineering
International Foundation in Business Economics Society and Culture
International Foundation in Humanities and Law
Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of additional course-related costs.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
Graduates from the Sociology programme will be critical thinkers, able to conduct social research, communicate complex ideas and reflect personally on existing and emerging career opportunities. The programme’s pathways have been designed to link to employment options; and the theoretical and research components of your degree will also provide you with a strong foundation for postgraduate study.
Careers
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
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Charity Managers
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Police roles
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Professionals in education, caring and social service roles
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Policy Analysts and Researchers
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Media, Marketing, Communications and Campaign Specialists
Discover more on our Careers webpages.
A degree at UEA will prepare you for a wide variety of careers. We've been ranked 1st for Job Prospects by StudentCrowd in 2022.
