Introduction
This is one of several specialist routes available in our BA (Honours) Social Sciences (R23) degree. Half of your studies will be in interdisciplinary social science and sociology, giving you a firm grounding in the knowledge and ideas that are central to the social sciences. In the other half, you’ll explore contemporary economic issues and will learn the theory needed to engage in current economic debates. You'll also analyse and assess different types of evidence, including economic data, and have the opportunity to carry out your own economics project. On completion of your degree, you’ll be able to apply economic and social theories and analytical techniques to a variety of topics that affect individuals and society. Additionally, you’ll have gained a wide range of transferable skills – opening up employment opportunities in private, public and voluntary sector organisations.
Key features of the course
- Specialise in economics within a broad interdisciplinary social sciences degree.
- Gain an understanding of economic theory applicable to real-world problems.
- Develop the skills to work independently and apply these to your own economics project.
- Develop statistical, analytical and communication skills that are highly valued by employers.
Accessibility
We make all our qualifications as accessible as possible and have a comprehensive range of services to support all our students. The BA (Honours) Social Sciences uses a variety of study materials and has the following elements:
- studying a mixture of printed and online material – online learning resources may include websites, audio/video media clips, and interactive activities such as online quizzes
- face-to-face tutorials/day schools/workshops and/or online tutorials
- working in a group with other students
- finding external/third party material online
- continuous and end-of-module assessment in the form of essays, short answer questions, and in some cases an examination
- using feedback: continuous assessment involves receiving detailed feedback on your work from your tutor and using this feedback to improve your performance
- engagement with learning and assessment within a pre-determined schedule or timetable – time management will be needed during your studies and the University will help you to develop these skills throughout your degree.
Program Outcome
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
- Knowledge and understanding
- Cognitive skills
- Practical and professional skills
- Key skills
The level and depth of your learning gradually increase as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; e-learning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.
Curriculum
Course details
This degree has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.
- You’ll start Stage 1 with an introductory social science module and then begin studying economics and personal finance.
- Next, at Stages 2 and 3, half your studies will be in sociology. For the other half, you’ll learn the theory needed to engage in current economic debates; analyse and assess different kinds of evidence, including economic data; and carry out your own economics project.
Prepare for OU study with an Access module
We offer two starting points depending on how confident you are or how long it’s been since you last studied. Choose to dive straight in at Stage 1, or if you’d prefer some extra preparation, you can get started with an optional Access module.