Makerere University

What you'll study

This programme provides a broad-based social science education with opportunities to specialise through elective units. Core subjects typically include sociology, political science, economics, social anthropology, social psychology, history and development studies. Training in research methods, statistics and academic writing is a strong feature and underpins fieldwork and independent projects.

• Core modules: introduction to social theory, comparative politics, micro- and macro-economics, ethnographic methods, social policy, research design and quantitative methods.
• Electives and options: gender and development, urban studies, environmental governance, public administration, human rights, conflict and peace studies, media and society.
• Practical components: supervised fieldwork, community-based projects, internships or attachments with government, NGOs or research organisations, and a final-year dissertation or research project.
• Structure: the programme is delivered through lectures, seminars, tutorials and field-based learning, with assessment by exams, coursework, presentations and a research project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have secondary school completion with qualifications equivalent to Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) with passes in relevant subjects such as History, Geography, Economics, Divinity, Literature, Social Studies or equivalent. Holders of recognised diplomas in social studies, development studies or related fields may be considered for entry, sometimes with credit transfer into the degree. Mature applicants with relevant work experience and a pass in an entrance assessment or interview may also be considered.

International applicants should present qualifications recognised as equivalent to the university's entry standards and may be required to provide proof of English proficiency where applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates of the BA Social Sciences have a wide range of career options in the public, private and non‑profit sectors. The programme emphasises transferable skills—critical thinking, research, communication and data analysis—that are valued across many roles.

• Public service and civil administration
• Policy analysis and research with think-tanks and research centres
• Development practice with international agencies, NGOs and community organisations
• Journalism, media and communications
• Human resources, project management and monitoring & evaluation
• Further academic or professional study in social sciences, development studies, law, education or public policy

Why study at Makerere University

Makerere University has a long-standing tradition in social science teaching and research in East Africa, with experienced faculty and a range of departmental research units. The university offers access to regional and national networks in government, development organisations and civil society, which support applied learning and placements.

Studying at Makerere provides opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, field‑based learning across urban and rural contexts, and the option to progress to postgraduate study. The campus environment and alumni network also provide professional and academic contacts useful for career development.