History and Sociology

History and Sociology at the University of Suffolk offers students an in-depth exploration of human societies, cultures, and historical developments. This interdisciplinary programme is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the past and present, enabling students to critically analyse social structures, historical events, and cultural phenomena. Through engaging lectures, seminars, and practical assignments, students will develop strong research skills and a nuanced perspective on the forces that have shaped societies over time.

The History component of the programme covers key periods such as ancient, medieval, modern, and contemporary history, with opportunities to specialise in specific regions or themes. Students will examine significant historical events, influential figures, and social movements, fostering a deep appreciation for how history influences contemporary issues. The Sociology component focuses on contemporary social issues like inequality, identity, globalization, and social change. Students will explore theories and methodologies used in sociological research, gaining insight into current societal challenges and policy implications.

The programme emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application, encouraging students to undertake independent research projects, participate in debates, and engage with community-based initiatives. This balanced approach prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in sectors such as education, public policy, heritage management, social research, and community development. The university’s strong links with local organisations and employers provide valuable networking opportunities and real-world experiences.

Students will benefit from a diverse and inclusive learning environment, supported by experienced academics passionate about teaching and research. The programme is suitable for those interested in understanding the complexities of human history and societal dynamics, and who wish to develop critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills. Upon graduation, students will be equipped to contribute thoughtfully and effectively to discussions about society, culture, and history, making them well-prepared for further study or entry into various professional fields.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 9550 Year (EEA)
• EUR 12530 Year (Non-EEA)

UK/EU Fees Students starting at UCS from September 2012 will be charged £8000 for a full-time Bachelors degree or £7500 for a full-time Foundation degree. Tuition fees for full-time International Study: Classroom-based 10,500 GBP (£) Laboratory-based 12,600 GBP (£)

• English

Course Content

First year modules:

History - Introduction to Historical Studies, From Cradle to Grave in England 1560 - 1720, Introduction to Political Ideas.

Sociology - Sociology and the Modern World, Understanding Social Change, Social Inequalities, Social Science Research Skills.

Second year modules:

History - Listening to the Past, Mentalities of Empire 1750 - 1950, Britain in the Nineteenth Century, Research Methods for History (Compulsory for History Major students and joint honours students intending to do a History dissertation)

Sociology- Sociology of Health and Illness, Globalization, Exploring Family Lives, Understanding Deviance, Quantitative Data in Social Science, Social Theory, Qualitative Data in Social Science (Compulsory for Sociology Major students and joint honours students intending to do a Sociology dissertation).

Third year modules:

History - Families in England 1600 - 2000, Aspects of East Anglian Histrory, The Spanish Civil War.

Sociology- Gender, Sexuality and Crime, Changing Education, Media, Culture and Sociology.

Undergraduate Dissertation - 40 credits

Note
UCS Bury St Edmunds reserves the right to withdraw optional module choices within each discipline at levels five and six. Optional choices in appropriate subject-designated modules may be also available at UCS Ipswich.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6 CAE score : 75(Grade B) TOEFL paper-based test score : 550 TOEFL iBT® test : 79

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

English language requirements

All students need to be able to understand and express themselves in both written and spoken English. Students whose first language is not English will need to take a recognised English Language test in advance of commencing a course at UCS and before the Confirmation of Acceptance (CAS) letter is issued for visa purposes.
UCS accepts a range of English qualifications, with the following standards required:

IELTS (academic version): 6.0 for all degrees, apart from Diagnostic Radiography,Radiotherapy and Oncology, ODP and all Pre-Registration Nursing and Midwifery courses that require 7.0. Postgraduate courses generally require between 6.5 and 7.0.
TOEFL: 550 on paper-based test; 213 on computer-based test; or 79-80 on the internet-based test for all degrees
Pearson Test of English Academic - Minimum score of 50 is required
Cambridge Proficiency Certificate: Grade C; Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English: Grade B
GCE O-level or GCSE English Language/Use of English: Grade C
Test in English for Educational Purposes (TEEP) International Baccalaureate English Grade B (standard level).
Hong Kong Certificate of English Education

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University Campus Suffolk.

Funding

National Scholarship Programme

As part of the new student finance system, students with households incomes under £25,000 per year will benefit from a new National Scholarship Programme. This new scheme is targeted towards students who most need financial help.
The National Scholarship is funded jointly by the Government and Universities. UCS has been awarded a number of National Scholarships which students can apply for Suffolk Access Champion Scheme
The Suffolk Access Champion Scheme will be open to eligible students currently studying at a Suffolk State Sixth form, College or Academy, and applying to study at UCS on a full-time undergraduate degree programme in 2012-13.
The Suffolk Access Champion will work over two years mentoring Year 10 and 11 students to encourage progression on to higher education.

Scholarships for international students

UCS offers a generous scholarship scheme for all undergraduate students paying international fees.
All international students that are offered and have firmly accepted a place on a full-time undergraduate Foundation or Honours degree course at UCS by the 30 September for the year of entry, will be eligible for a scholarship of £1,000 per year for the duration of their course. This scholarship will be awarded each year once annual fees have been paid in full.
Please note that any international students accepted on a course that requires a practice placement with a Primary Care Trust, for example Nursing, Midwifery or Radiography, will incur an additional £3000 fee per each year of study (this excludes all British Islands students except the Falkland Islands).

The Bachelor of Arts in History and Sociology at the University of Suffolk offers students a comprehensive exploration of the human past and societal structures, providing a well-rounded understanding of historical events, social theories, and contemporary social issues. The programme is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and cultural awareness, preparing graduates for various careers in education, research, public service, international organizations, journalism, and beyond. The curriculum combines core modules in history and sociology, allowing students to examine significant historical periods, movements, and figures, as well as key sociological theories and qualitative and quantitative research methods. Students are encouraged to critically analyze historical sources and sociological data, fostering skills in argumentation and evidence-based reasoning. The programme emphasizes the development of research skills, with opportunities for fieldwork, internships, and independent projects, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings. Throughout the course, students benefit from the university’s experienced academic staff, modern facilities, and strong links with local and national institutions, enhancing their learning experience and employability prospects. The Bachelor of Arts in History and Sociology is suitable for students with an interest in understanding how societies function and evolve, and how historical contexts influence present-day issues. The flexible course structure allows for part-time study, making it accessible for students balancing other commitments. Upon graduation, students will have gained a diverse skill set that includes historical and sociological analysis, research expertise, and communication skills, positioning them effectively for further study or immediate entry into the workforce. The programme emphasizes critical engagement, civic understanding, and global awareness, equipping graduates with the knowledge necessary to contribute thoughtfully to society. This course is committed to fostering a vibrant academic environment where students can develop their intellectual curiosity and academic potential.