Keele University

What you'll study

The Social Sciences degree at Keele provides a multidisciplinary curriculum that introduces core ideas and methods from sociology, politics, criminology, social policy and related fields. The programme is modular and typically follows a progression from broad introductory units in the first year to more specialised options and independent research in later years.

• Year 1: Foundational modules covering social theory, contemporary social issues, introduction to political ideas, and basic research skills (qualitative and quantitative).
• Year 2: Intermediate modules in areas such as social policy, crime and society, globalisation and development, media and culture, and applied research methods. Students begin choosing optional modules to tailor their studies.
• Year 3: Advanced option modules and a substantial independent project or dissertation in an area of choice, supported by one-to-one supervision. Options commonly include modules on migration and society, health and inequality, comparative public policy, ethnicity and identity, and advanced qualitative/quantitative techniques.

The programme is offered as a three-year honours route, with the option in many cases to take a sandwich year in employment, a year abroad or work-related placement to gain practical experience. Teaching methods combine lectures, seminars, small-group tutorials, workshops and supervised research; assessment uses essays, reports, presentations, portfolios and the final dissertation or project.

Entry requirements

Keele considers a range of qualifications for entry to its Social Sciences degrees. Typical applicants hold A-levels, BTEC qualifications, the International Baccalaureate, or Access to Higher Education diplomas. The university also welcomes mature students and those with relevant work or voluntary experience.

• Academic profile: Applicants are expected to demonstrate achievement in a recognised level 3 qualification or equivalent. Specific grade requirements vary by course variant and applicant background.
• English and maths: Good standard of English is required for study and assessment; many programmes expect GCSE-level English, and some may require maths at a similar level or evidence of quantitative ability.
• Personal statement and references: Admissions will take into account a personal statement that shows interest in social issues and research, and at least one academic or employment reference.
• Alternative entry routes: Mature applicants and holders of Access to HE or relevant vocational qualifications are considered, and recognised prior learning may be taken into account.

Career prospects

Graduates from Keele's Social Sciences programmes move into a wide range of careers across the public, private and third sectors. The degree's emphasis on critical analysis, communication and research skills prepares students for roles such as policy officer, research assistant, caseworker, community development officer, advocacy and project management.

• Public sector and civil service: policy and research roles in local and national government.
• Research and data roles: market research, social research, evaluation and data analysis, often leading to postgraduate training or research careers.
• Third sector and charities: programme delivery, fundraising, campaign and community engagement roles.
• Criminal justice and support services: roles in probation services, youth justice, offender rehabilitation and victim support (note: statutory social work requires a professional social work qualification).
• Further study: many graduates go on to master's programmes in social research, public policy, social work (where required), international development, criminology or related fields, and some pursue doctoral research.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers a campus-based student experience with strong interdisciplinary teaching in the social sciences. The university emphasises small-group teaching and staff-student contact, giving undergraduates access to research-active academics and opportunities to engage in applied projects with local organisations and partners.

• Interdisciplinary approach: the degree is designed to let students combine perspectives across sociology, politics, criminology and social policy.
• Research-informed teaching: modules draw on current social research and applied projects, helping students develop practical research skills valued by employers.
• Placement and exchange opportunities: options for a placement year or study abroad are available on many routes, helping students gain workplace experience and international perspectives.
• Supportive campus environment: Keele's campus provides library resources, research training, careers guidance and a range of student support services to help progression both into employment and postgraduate study.