Faculty: Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Sociology and Criminology. This four-year full-time degree provides a thorough grounding in both sociology and social psychology, exploring why individuals, groups, and cultures are the way they are and examining why they might be different. You will delve into the many different social tensions, interactions, and networks that make up everyday life, from how we relate to politicians, celebrities, and friends, to how we define ourselves, our families, and others. The course integrates sociological theories and research methods with key concepts from social psychology, focusing on how identities, choices, and actions are shaped by interactions with other people, society, and culture. The program also develops qualitative and quantitative research skills. The third year is spent on a professional placement, providing invaluable work experience.

Graduates with a placement year are highly versatile and equipped with a strong skillset in understanding human behaviour and societal trends, coupled with practical work experience, making them extremely attractive to employers. Career options include: Social Researcher, Market Researcher, Data Analyst, Policy Analyst, Human Resources, Public Relations, Advertising, Communications, Charity and Non-profit Sector, Local and Central Government, Civil Service, Social Work, Youth Work, Community Development, Education (with further qualification), roles in media, health and welfare services, and areas requiring strong analytical skills in human behaviour and societal trends. The program particularly develops skills in problem-solving, evaluating evidence, forming reasoned arguments, thinking creatively, and considering different viewpoints. The placement year provides a competitive edge in the graduate job market and allows for invaluable industry contacts. Many graduates also progress to postgraduate study (Master's or PhD) in sociology, social psychology, social research, public policy, or related fields.

The University of Essex offers a forward-thinking environment and diverse international community. Essex is a centre of world-leading research excellence for the social sciences, with its Department of Sociology and Criminology rated highly for research quality (e.g., 2nd in UK for research power in sociology - REF 2021). It offers a location close to beautiful countryside that's only an hour away from London by train, providing a good balance of campus life and city access. The department consistently receives strong student satisfaction scores and has dedicated support for securing placements.