Access to Social Science

Required qualifications

You will need to have previously achieved GCSE English at Grade A-C (4-9) or equivalent (Level 2 Functional Skills*) and GCSE maths at Grade A-C (4-9) or equivalent (Level 2 Functional Skills*).

If you do not have Level 2 qualifications in maths and English you may be able to study one of these alongside your Access to Social Science course. This will be discussed as part of the Information, Advice and Guidance process.

*Some Universities will only accept GCSEs to meet their entry requirements. They may also require you to have additional GCSEs at Grade A-C (4-9), including a science for some pathways. All applicants are advised to check entry requirements for their chosen degree programme.

English and maths are an integral part of the programme and will be embedded within all subject areas so that your skills in these areas are continued whilst on the course. There is also a topic called English language skills where you will demonstrate your ongoing skills development over the course of the academic year.

What skills will I develop?

There are four modules within the programme, all of which must be completed and achieved in order to achieve the qualification.

These are;

• Psychology – introduction to psychology, developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, psychobiology of stress, and memory processes.
• Sociology – introduction to sociology, sociology of health, sociology of the family, sociology of education, social stratification, and understanding poverty.
• Criminology – crime and media, understanding crime and deviance, criminal justice and policy, and forensic psychology.
• Skills for Learning – progressing to HE, seminar, and English language skills.

As well as the knowledge gained from studying these subjects you will develop many academic skills, such as writing and referencing, critical thinking and research skills, as well as time management, reflective skills and many more, all of which are crucial for progressing to university.

Modules are broken down into units and you are assessed at the end of each unit of study through a variety of assessment methods.

Careers

After completion of the Access to Social Science course most of our students will go onto study in Higher Education on a range of courses. Examples include social work, psychology, criminology, primary teaching with QTS and counselling. This course will get you on the right track to your chosen career.

Work Experience

Work experience is not expected whilst on the course but if you are interested in a vocational degree such as social work or primary school teaching then it is expected that you are undertaking some work experience in preparation for your university interview.