We caught up with Karl Mason, a lecturer in Social Work and programme lead for BSc Social Science, and student on the course Aiman.
What is the BSc Social Science all about?
Karl: Our BSc Social Science looks at the study of society from different social science perspectives. Students take modules from sociology, politics, social policy, criminology and philosophy to gain an integrated understanding of how society works. We place emphasis on social divisions such as race, gender, sexuality etc.
Aiman: My favourite module is Madness and Society. I enjoy the practical approach our module leader takes through debates such as inequalities in psychiatry, the representations of mental health in film and art or looking at gendered explanations of mental illness.
What skills will I have at the end of my degree?
Karl: We've worked with the Careers Service to map our modules to skills that employers look for in social science graduates, from critical thinking and analysis skills, teamwork, communication skills or employment sector awareness.
Aiman: I've become confident with research and presentation skills. I am also on the Social Science Society committee, which provides opportunities outside the classroom to discuss social issues. I've developed skills like time management, teamwork, organising events and financial information keeping through the society.
Will I have any opportunities to gain experience whilst studying this degree?
Karl: Our BSc includes a Voluntary Work in the Community module, which we run in partnership with Royal Holloway Volunteering and local charities. Students undertake 60 hours of voluntary work alongside a module on knowledge and skills for volunteering.
Aiman, what’s it like studying this degree and what’s your one piece of advice to anyone wanting to study here?
Aiman: Studying this degree keeps your mind open and continually engaged with everything occurring around you. I particularly like the advocacy and social justice lens, thinking about how to create a better, safer and more accepting society. It's important to keep up with the news and current affairs. This will help when you join the course because society is constantly changing and you gain good insights and examples from being ‘tuned in’.
