Education Studies - Sociology, BA (Hons)

Are you curious about why individuals learn differently, the barriers to learning, and how education influences childhood development and societal policies? The BA in Education Studies with a Sociology pathway is an excellent choice for those intrigued by the sociological aspects of learning, offering flexible career opportunities. This degree explores the philosophical foundations of education, political policy implications, and the dynamic relationship between people and society, drawing on current departmental research. Students can tailor their studies through various pathways, including psychology or geography, preparing them for diverse roles in teaching, research, publishing, policy, and beyond.In the first year, core modules introduce key educational theorists, contemporary issues, societal transitions, and classical sociological theory. Optional modules may cover topics like special educational needs or international education. Assessment includes essays, portfolios, presentations, and a 12,000-word dissertation, which constitutes one-third of final-year marks.

Year 1 Core modules: Historical and Philosophical Ideas of Education will introduce you to some of the major educational theorists and the foundational ideas informing education practice today. This will help you to develop a personal perspective on the longstanding debate about the purpose and value of education. Contemporary Issues and Evidence in Education examines a range of contemporary issues in education and the nature and scope of the supporting evidence. With a range of guest speakers from across the Department you will gain a grounding in a variety of issues at stake. Societies in Transition is the study of contemporary societies and aspects of social life and change, focusing on local communities, families and relationships, economies and consumerism, and patterns relating to health, social class, gender race/ethnicity and religion. Classical Sociological Theory introduces sociological concepts and theorising, using individual thinkers and particular topics to illustrate changing understandings of the relationship between structure and agency in sociological thinking, both across time and in relation to current debates. In recent years, optional modules have included: Disability and Educational Needs: What’s so ‘Special’ about SEND? International and Comparative Education Foundations of Psychology in Education