Social Science, Community Development and Youth Work

Why study BA Social Science, Community Development & Youth Work at Goldsmiths
Challenging, 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.

Year 1
In the first year you take the following modules:
Introduction to Social Work, Community Development, and Youth Work
Group Work
Introduction to Applied Social Science Research
Fieldwork Practice I
Race, Racism and Professional Practice
Introduction to Social Science
Identity, Agency & Environment 2

Year 2
In the second year, you will study the following compulsory modules:
Community Development and Youth Work in Context
Group Work in Theory
Group Work in Practice
Fieldwork Practice 2
Theory, Policy and Politics
Applied Social Research Methods

You also choose one of the following modules:
Youth Justice
The Goldsmiths Elective

Year 3
In the third year of the degree you will 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
Conflict Transformation

Please note that due to staff research commitments not all of these modules may be available every year.

You’ll be assessed through a combination of coursework, assignment, presentation, dissertation, self-reflection reports and portfolio.