Sociology with Social Psychology (Including Placement Year)

What is BA Sociology with Social Psychology?
BA Sociology with Social Psychology is a three-year degree, or four years with an optional placement or study abroad year.

You’ll explore how people function in society, why individuals, groups, and cultures behave the way they do, and how social and psychological forces shape human interaction. You’ll also develop strong qualitative and quantitative research skills to analyse social life.

Why this course
How do people function in society? Do we pull together because we want to, or because we have to? What motivates migration between societies? These are some of the questions you will explore throughout your degree.

The course provides a thorough grounding in sociology and social psychology, helping you understand why individuals, groups, and cultures behave as they do, and how and why they differ across contexts.

You’ll examine the social tensions, interactions, and networks that shape everyday life, from relationships with politicians, celebrities, and friends to the ways we define ourselves, our families, and wider society.

You will develop the ability to analyse a wide range of social issues, drawing on both psychological and sociological perspectives to understand human behaviour in context.

Who should apply
Students interested in human behaviour, society, and social relationships
Those curious about how psychology and sociology explain everyday life
Learners who enjoy exploring social issues such as migration, identity, and belief systems
Future researchers, analysts, or professionals working with people and communities

What you’ll learn
Social psychology and interaction: Explore how individuals behave in groups and social settings
Psychoanalysis and human behaviour: Examine psychological approaches to understanding social life
Sociology of global issues: Study migration, religion, multinational corporations, and social change
Research methods: Learn to design surveys, conduct interviews, and analyse data from basic statistics to big data

Your learning experience
Interdisciplinary teaching: Combine sociology and social psychology to understand human behaviour
Research skills development: Gain training in both qualitative and quantitative methods
Applied social understanding: Explore real-world social tensions, identities, and relationships
Independent dissertation: Undertake a supervised research project on a topic that inspires you
Supportive academic environment: Learn within a research-led department focused on contemporary social issues

Careers and outcomes
A BA Sociology with Social Psychology degree can prepare you for careers in:

Social research and analysis: Roles in research organisations, think tanks, and data analysis
Public and community services: Work supporting individuals, families, and communities
Policy and government: Roles in public policy, social planning, and administration
Human services and NGOs: Work in charities, NGOs, and social impact organisations
Further study: Postgraduate study in sociology, psychology, social research, or related fields

Many of our courses offer a choice of optional modules to tailor your learning experience. More information about these can be found on the University of Essex website.