Social Sciences

The social sciences involve the study of human society and social relationships. This degree will empower you to explore, understand and shape the world we live in. You will explore some of the most pressing challenges in modern societies, from crime, justice and democracy, to globalisation, migration, gender and human rights.

In Years 1 and 2, you’ll get a solid foundation in core social science subjects, including:

• criminology

• economics

• history

• politics

• sociology

In Years 3 and 4, you can tailor your degree to reflect your interests and career goals.

You’ll develop a deep understanding of the social values, relationships and institutions that shape our world. You’ll learn to think critically and engage positively with real-world challenges at a local, national and global level. You’ll also enhance your employability with practical, career-ready skills to set you up for success in a dynamic job market.

Throughout the course, we’ll encourage you to be considerate and compassionate, so you can develop into a confident and well-rounded professional, committed to the wellbeing of society.

Why choose this course?

• Study a broad degree that gives you a solid foundation across criminology, economics, history, politics and sociology, equipping you with versatile skills that open doors to diverse careers.

• Specialise in subjects that reflect your interests and career goals, allowing you to shape a degree that genuinely aligns with your future.

• Learn from leading academics who advise organisations like the Scottish Government, Scottish Parliament and Police Scotland.

• In Years 3 and 4, you can opt for a work placement module that gives you real‑world experience across sectors – including cold case investigation, policing, social research, heritage, and policy work.

Careers

You will benefit from a wide range of employment opportunities that reflect the diversity of the degree.

You can develop professional links through optional work placements with organisations such as Police Scotland, or by conducting research with partners like the Poverty Alliance through the Scottish Poverty and Inequality Research Unit (SPIRU). Regular guest lectures give you the opportunity to connect with practitioners from local, national and international organisations, including the Coalition for Racial Equality and Rights, the Scottish Parliament and the United Nations, setting you up for your future careers.

Previous students now work in:

• civil service

• criminal justice

• social work

• political and social research

• media

• counselling

• marketing

• HR

• charities

• heritage and tourism.

Graduates have taken on a wide range of roles, including:

• Senior MP Caseworker

• Higher Executive Officer

• Fundraiser

• News Producer

• Widening Participation Officer

• Housing Officer.

They work in a variety of organisations, such as:

• BBC Scotland

• House of Commons

• Civil Service

• Shelter Scotland

• Turning Point Scotland

• Edinburgh Napier University.