Program Overview

Investigate social phenomena through the eyes of a scientist. Use statistical analysis to answer difficult social questions. Learn how patterns in human societies can be used to predict social trends. On this course you explore why individuals, groups, and cultures are the way they are whilst applying scientific methods and tools to examine the important questions that surround human society.

At Essex we explore what connects people with each other, as well as what divides them. We consider every aspect of our daily lives, from how we relate to politicians, celebrities and friends, to how we behave in similar or different ways to those who share our experiences and social location. You study topics including:

• Digital media and its impact on society
• The sociological methods used to carry out empirical research
• Religion and society
• Using quantitative analysis from basic statistics to big data – in order to answer difficult questions
• Inequalities in society based on race, class, gender or religion.

You receive training in social research methods with an emphasis on quantitative data and analysis. You will also complete a supervised dissertation on the topic that most inspires you, encouraging you to think scientifically, enhancing your ability to understand and use data, and connect with live issues and debates, preparing you for your graduate career.

Placement year

On a placement year you gain relevant work experience within an external business, giving you a competitive edge in the graduate job market and providing you with key contacts within the industry. You’ll be responsible for finding your placement, but with support and guidance provided by both your department and our Employability and Careers Centre.

A Placement-Linked Project module is also available as an alternative to the dissertation module in your third year. You attend shorter placements (a minimum of 150 hours in total), and use your learning on placement to inform a research project; fantastic work experience for your CV.

If you complete a placement year you'll only pay 20% of your usual tuition fee to Essex for that year.