IN PARTNERSHIP WITH PLYMOUTH UNIVERSITY. Highlands. Opportunities Achievement Success. BSc (Hons) Social Sciences

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1 Highlands Opportunities Achievement Success IN BSc (Hons) Social Sciences

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3 Introduction The BSc (Hons) Social Sciences degree will broaden your horizons and help you develop different perspectives on issues through exploring a range of interrelated topics. What is this degree about? Social Sciences can be defined as the study of society, of people in society and how they relate to one another. The Social Sciences are comprised of a number of different disciplines which look at specific areas of human society such as sociology, economics, social history, criminology and public policy. The BSc (Hons) Social Sciences degree looks at many aspects of life which we care about most and the issues that governments face from health, education and crime to where our wealth comes from and how we choose to spend it. Research methods are taught to enable students to undertake their own research in the later stages of the course. This course has been designed to enable students to study and understand the issues which affect people and looks critically at how nations live, trade and interact. Entry requirements 160 UCAS points from a minimum of two A Levels or equivalent (eg. BTEC National / International Baccalaureate / Access to Higher Education). 5 GCSEs including Maths and English at grade C or above. Other Level 3 qualifications will be considered and mature applicants with relevant experience will be considered on an individual basis. All candidates will need to have a successful interview. What does the course lead on to? A Social Sciences degree offers both intellectual training and transferable skills, particularly analysis and problem solving, which are valued by a range of employers. You may go on to find employment in the public or voluntary sector, research, or within a wide range of organisations. At the end of this programme, you will have the confidence and qualifications to pursue a career. You will have acquired the increased knowledge, skills and experience needed to make a positive contribution to an organisation. You may wish to continue your studies by undertaking a PGCE qualification or a Masters degree in an area of the Social Sciences or related subject. Access to post graduate studies is normally dependant on the level of the honours degree you achieve. 3

4 Why a Plymouth University Degree at Highlands About us With a mission to be the enterprise university, Plymouth is a dynamic and innovative environment within which to work and study, transforming lives through education, world-class research and innovation on a global stage. Plymouth University has been shortlisted for one of the most coveted and prestigious awards in the national higher education sector. The institution has been named among six finalists for the 2012 University of the Year accolade in the annual Times Higher Education Awards. We are committed to delivering an outstanding student experience and enjoy a reputation for excellence in teaching and learning alongside world-class research. Together with a research-informed curriculum, we embed employability skills throughout a student s journey with us. This approach is replicated at our partner colleges around the UK, including Highlands College. Our students emerge as highly employable graduates with an impressive skills base. Studying for a Plymouth degree in Jersey gives the benefits of a Plymouth approved curriculum which is tailored to the local market. Skilled teachers Feedback from current students is universally positive about the high standards and approachability of the teaching team. In the Plymouth University Partner Colleges Undergraduate Student Perception survey, 100% of first year students stated that they found staff are good at explaining things ; 100% of students were satisfied with the quality of the course, and over 90% agreed that the course has helped me to present myself with confidence. Our core team are all experienced teachers with over 40 years experience between them. We also draw on a pool of experienced visiting lecturers from Plymouth University. Crucially, we insist that anyone delivering a module on any of our courses has a nationally recognised teaching qualification, ensuring the highest standards of achievement and academic integrity. Ongoing support We recognise that at higher education level, students are on a journey toward full independence and this is reflected in the large amount of support which is delivered in the first year, gradually being reduced as students develop their skills as independent learners. We believe in small class sizes, prioritising quality over quantity which is favoured by some institutions. Students also have the support of a personal tutor. Varied teaching methods Teaching is via a variety of methods which include traditional lectures and seminars to small group challenges, and video conferences with Plymouth University lecturers. Classrooms are well-equipped with interactive whiteboards and internet access. Degree students have access to their own study space as well as the College library and Learning Resources Centre. Students also gain access to the Plymouth University portal. There is opportunity for students to undertake work based learning in Stage 2 and work based action research in Stage 3 in any area related to the Social Sciences. 4

5 The University Centre at Highlands A former Student - Danielle Schenk I decided to study for the Social Sciences Degree because I wanted a change of career. I had always regretted not going to university and felt that I needed a new challenge. With two young children I was delighted to be able to study without leaving the Island. The course provided the opportunity for me to develop my scholarly abilities, and the programme content was so varied and fascinating that it really did broaden my knowledge and understanding of the world around us. As a result of the new skills I acquired, soon after graduation I secured employment conducting research for Highlands College. In addition, the college supported me in the completion of a PTLLS teacher training qualification which has allowed me to assist students studying the Research and Statistics module of the BSc (Hons) in Social Sciences. Completing the degree has rekindled my thirst for learning and I have now enrolled at Swansea University to study for a PhD in Criminology. I would wholeheartedly recommend the degree course at Highlands College to anyone because I have gained a real sense of personal accomplishment and it has opened doors to opportunities that otherwise would have not been possible. 5

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7 Level 4 Short Module Descriptors (Stage 1) HSS101 The Research Process in the Social Sciences Students examine the key stages in the process of conducting research, including information management and retrieval skills, ICT skills and the methodological, technical, political and ethical issues facing researchers. Students will also be introduced to the key techniques of descriptive statistics. HSS102 International Governance in an Unstable World The practices of key institutions of international governance are studied in this module along with an examination of the interrelationship between different international and regional institutions and regimes. The roles of non-state, transnational actors in international governance are also studied. HSS103 Making Public Policy in Jersey and the UK The functions, structures and processes of public policy in the United Kingdom and Jersey are studied in this module. Particular emphasis is laid upon the choice, implementation and evaluation of policy. Basic statistical techniques germane to social policy research are introduced. HSS104 Criminology and the Problem of Crime Students are introduced to the subject of criminology with the emphasis that criminology is a multi-disciplinary subject. The different perspectives, methods and sources of information that it draws upon in developing theories are discussed along with the different causes and problematisations of crime and deviance. HSS106 Imagining British Society: Contemporary Issues An introductory module to the main dimensions of inequality in British society and major social institutions within it. Students will develop a sociological appreciation of the complexity and diversity and examine the nature and impact of fundamental social divisions in contemporary Britain. HSS108 British Economic and Social History in the 20th Century Over the course of the twentieth century, British social conditions and expectations improved significantly, as did economic performance. War and work, political and social movements and technological and cultural change have all played their part in creating the Britain of today. This module examines these changes and the way in which they have been shaped by Britain s relationship with foreign powers. 7

8 Level 5 Short Module Descriptors (Stage 2) HIGH2022 Work Based Learning The purpose of the module is to enable students to develop the skills and knowledge which will enable them to operate in the work place, develop skills in personal development planning and to inform themselves of career opportunities which may be open to them on completion of their studies. Students will be encouraged to undertake a placement whenever possible to inform their career choice and enhance their employment skills. HSS203 Social Identities in Modern Societies Students consider the ways in which the relationship between the individual and society have been conceptualised, how individuals are socially positioned through changes in the available sources of social identity and how changes in the social world interact in the production, maintenance and transformation of social identities. HSS204 The Evolution of the Global Economy A critical evaluation of the evolution of the global economic system and how it has been managed by the most powerful actors is undertaken in this module. Students will critically assess aspects of economic policy in individual countries and regions using fundamental principles of economic and political science. HSS205 Criminal Justice and Penology This module begins with a critical overview of the key socio-political debates and issues which have shaped and informed contemporary theories of crime and punishment. It then moves on to examine how these theories can be used to analyse and evaluate the new governance of crime and punishment and the politics of criminality and penalty. HSS206 Social Policy and Social Justice A variety of concepts relevant to the study of social policy and social justice are studied. The module considers the impact of legislation and the legal process on the enforcement of the individual and human rights provision in the United Kingdom. Students will develop their evaluation skills through case study analysis. HSS207 Research Methods in the Social Sciences The key academic skills covered in The Research Process in the Social Sciences in stage 1 are extended. The module seeks to facilitate both applied research at the intermediate undergraduate level, and subsequently, the writing of a substantial honours project/dissertation. 8

9 Level 6 Short Module Descriptors (Stage 3) SSJ3001 Social Science Dissertation This is a 40 credit module which provides students with the opportunity to design and implement their own research project, working independently but under the supervision of an academic staff member. SSJ3001 Work-Based Action Research Students negotiate and conduct a workplace based action research project on a specific policy or practice issue for the host (client) organisation. SSJ3006 Microstates: Problems of Governance The phenomenon of microstates within the modern global system is investigated. Following a consideration of the basic characteristics of small jurisdictions and their creation and development, an analysis of the roles, governance and strategies of microstates in the world of offshore and the global system is undertaken. SSJ3004 Issues for a United Europe in the 21st Century The key issues facing Jersey as Europe continues to integrate in the twenty-first century are explored. It assesses the drivers of integration, the transformation of domestic policies and institutions, the demands of EU law, the rise of a European identity, the consequences of expansion in Eastern and Central Europe, immigration and post-colonialism, the salience of regions and the EU on the international scene. SSJ3007 Selected Issues in Social Sciences; Less Developed Societies This is an introduction to the critical concerns facing developing societies today. It initially takes a regional focus and examines modern Africa in crisis. The remit of the module then broadens to examine the relationship between poverty and development across the Third World and examines a variety of problems in less developed societies today. 9

10 The student experience Alannah May - Stage 1 The Social Science degree offered me the flexibility required to study a degree whilst looking after my two year old. It is a full-time course but a combination of self directed study; twelve hours a week taught in college during the day. The friendly atmosphere took the stress out of university life, and enabled me to enjoy both higher education and parenting. The small classes and extremely knowledgeable lecturers are a privilege that allow me to feel in complete understanding of what is being taught. Melissa Rodrigues - Stage 3 Having completed my BTEC National Diploma in Business I can certainly say that I was looking forward to jumping into the deep end of the Social Science degree. Shifting from such a different subject was challenging, but very rewarding. Leaving Jersey wasn t something I was ready to do, therefore having the opportunity to study from home was such an exciting concept. The degree encompasses a variety of subjects which involve lots of research and inspire important discussions. In general, the course has provided me with a much broader knowledge of society and has opened my eyes to real life issues. Thanks to the lecturers and fellow colleagues, I have managed to stay focused and interested in the degree throughout my three years at Highlands College. It s been a journey that I will never forget! Paul Mash - Stage 3 My name is Paul Mash and I am a mature student in my final year of the BSc (Hons) in Social Science. My experience at Highlands College University Centre has been second to none. The standards of teaching and lecturing at the college are par excellence. The Social Science degree enables you to understand the complexities of how our world works today in the modern era. It identifies cultural, political, economical, and judicial drivers that we as a society live by. The knowledge and skills gained from this degree are highly transferable and can be used in many different contexts. The learning and student facilities are first-rate with plenty of access to computers and quiet rooms for study. Highlands relationship with Plymouth University allows for the use of the Plymouth online facilities with access to numerous books, journals and articles. Taking my experience from the Highlands College University Centre and applying to all the degrees on offer, I can only say that this is an opportunity not to be missed by those who do not want to or cannot leave Jersey to study for a degree. If Highlands did not offer the degree I am about to complete, I can honestly say I would have lost out. One chuffed and happy student Paul Mash 10

11 Application Process How to apply All applicants are required to complete an application form and submit a personal statement. A specific task relevant to the course applied for will also be set which will be discussed at the interview stage. Grant means tested support for fees and living expenses is available from the Education, Sport and Culture Department - please contact Tel for more information. Application forms can be downloaded from or can be collected from Student Services at Highlands College. For further information on any of our courses, please direct your questions and queries to the team. Mary Ayling-Phillip Lecturer in Social Science Innes MacLagan University Centre Manager Gill Oakes Head of Faculty Community Studies & Highlands University Centre Jane Herlihy University Centre Administrator

12 Highlands Opportunities Achievement Success Highlands College, PO Box 1000, St Saviour, Jersey, JE4 9QA Tel: (01534) Design & Print by Energy Media Tel (01534)