Social Science, Community Development and Youth Work, BA (Hons)

Course summary

Why study BA Social Science, Community Development & Youth Work at GoldsmithsChallenging, dynamic and interactive, this programme is ideal if you have experience of community and youth work and it gives you opportunities for critical reflection and exploration of recent developments in the field.

• Combining academic study in the social sciences with fieldwork placements, this programme will enable you to develop as a youth and community development worker equipped for the challenges of the 21st century.

• The programme is underpinned by a commitment to social justice and equalities, and provides opportunities to specialise in areas such as youth offending, community arts, faith-based practice, conflict transformation, international development and community enterprise.

• You'll undertake placements in several community and youth work settings, and will gain invaluable experience that will enhance your employability.

• The degree can lead to careers in the broad community development, community and youth work field in statutory, voluntary and independent sectors.

• Our lecturers have extensive experience in the community and youth work sector, and work closely with you to maximise your potential.

• You'll learn how to analyse relevant theoretical concepts and social policies, and how to link them to practical situations and your personal practice.

• You'll attend a three-day residential module in the January of the first year, where you'll get to know other students and staff, while participating in programmed activities.

• Teaching methods encourage student participation and include lectures, seminars, group and individual tutorials, group work training meetings, workshops and practical exercises.

• The degree is professionally recognised by the National Youth Agency (NYA) and endorsed by the Endorsement and Quality Standards Board for Community Development Learning.

Residential The residential at the beginning of the second term in the first year provides the opportunity for you get to know other students and staff, while participating in student-programmed activities. The module takes place at a residential centre and there is no extra cost. Year 1 In your first year you will study the following compulsory modules: Introduction to Community Development & Youth Work Introduction to Applied Research Methods I Fieldwork Practice I Race, Racism and Professional Practice Introduction to Group Work Introduction to Applied Social Science Identity, Agency & Environment 2 Year 2 In the second year, you take the following compulsory modules: Group Work in Theory Group Work in Practice Fieldwork Practice 2 Theory, Policy and Politics Applied Research Methods 2 Community Development and Youth Work in Context You then choose one module from the following list of options: Arts in the Community Global Youth Work and International Development Youth Justice Religion, Belief and Spirituality in Professional Practice The Goldsmiths Elective Year 3 In the third year you take the following compulsory modules: Fieldwork Practice 3 Social Justice in Community Development and Youth Work Management and Leadership Critical Engagement with Social Policy Dissertation You then choose one option from the following list: Faith-based youth work Conflict Transformation Enterprise in Communities Please note that due to staff research commitments not all of these modules may be available every year.