What should I look at before I pick a social sciences course abroad?
Before choosing a social sciences course abroad, check the compulsory first-year modules and whether mathematics or another school subject is required. Also check when you choose a specialisation, how much statistics or fieldwork is included, and whether placements or exchange terms exist.
Abroad, you will mostly meet the term social sciences at university level. Before you choose a course, look at how it is structured, what the first year covers and how much room it gives you to specialise later.
Ways Social Sciences Courses Are Structured
| Course type | How it works |
|---|---|
| General social science | Start with several subjects and specialise later; Manchester's BA Social Sciences works this way |
| Specialised degree | Apply to one subject such as sociology, economics, anthropology or political science |
| Combined degree | Study two or more related subjects together, such as politics and economics |
| Social studies education | A different route, usually for those who want to teach social studies in schools |
Checklist Before You Apply
- Compulsory modules in the first year
- Whether mathematics or another school subject is required
- When you must choose a major or specialisation
- How much statistics, research or fieldwork is included
- Whether internships, placements or exchange terms are available
- Which careers or postgraduate courses previous students enter
My Advice
Do not judge a course only by whether it awards a BA, BSc or BSocSc, because these labels do not follow one pattern across universities. A broad programme gives you room to try different areas first, while a specialised course suits you better if your career or postgraduate plan is already clear.
Looking for a specific course?
We will find the universities that offer it, and whether you will get in.
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