Sociology and Economics

Sociology and Economics at the University of Kent offers a comprehensive multidisciplinary degree designed to provide students with a deep understanding of social structures, economic systems, and their interrelations. This programme aims to equip students with critical analytical skills, enabling them to examine complex societal issues through the lenses of both sociology and economics. Throughout the course, students will explore a wide range of topics including social inequality, globalization, economic policy, cultural dynamics, and institutional change. The programme balances theoretical foundations with practical application, encouraging students to develop research skills and employ quantitative and qualitative methods for data analysis. By integrating perspectives from both disciplines, students will gain a holistic view of how economic activities influence social life and vice versa. The curriculum includes core modules such as Introduction to Sociology, Principles of Economics, Social Research Methods, and Applied Economics, alongside optional modules allowing specialization in areas like development economics, urban sociology, or social policy. Teaching methods combine lectures, seminars, tutorials, and group projects, fostering critical thinking and collaborative learning. The programme also offers opportunities for internships, placements, and study abroad experiences, enhancing employability and global awareness. Graduates will be prepared for careers in public policy, research, consultancy, international organizations, or further academic study. The Department's supportive academic environment, experienced faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities ensure students receive a high-quality educational experience. With a strong emphasis on practical skills, critical insight, and interdisciplinary understanding, the Sociology and Economics degree at Kent aims to empower students to become informed, engaged, and leading contributors to societal development and economic innovation.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 12450 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

The course structure below gives a flavour of the modules that will be available to you and provides details of the content of this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation. Most programmes will require you to study a combination of compulsory and optional modules, you may also have the option to take ‘wild’ modules from other programmes offered by the University in order that you may customise your programme and explore other subject areas of interest to you or that may further enhance your employability.

Stage 1

Possible modules may include:

• SO336 - Sociology of Everyday Life
• SO337 - Fundamentals of Sociology
• SO408 - Sociological Theory: The Classics
• SA300 - Social Problems and Social Policy I: Youth,The family and the State
• SO305 - Introduction to Criminology
• SO334 - Modern Culture

You have the opportunity to select wild modules in this stage

Stage 2

Possible modules may include:

• SO602 - Social Research Methods
• SO727 - Contemporary Sociological Theory

Year abroad

Going abroad as part of a Kent degree is an amazing opportunity and a chance for you to develop both personally and professionally. On this programme you spend your third year studying in the Netherlands.

During your Year Abroad you complete course work and attend lectures and seminars (taught in English) at your host university, just as you would at Kent. The marks you gain will count towards your final degree.

Possible modules may include:

• SO606 - Year Abroad Mark One
• SO607 - Year Abroad Mark Two

Stage 3

Possible modules may include:

• SO645 - The Third Sector: Charities and Social Enterprises in Modern Societies
• SO657 - Digital Culture
• SO659 - Risk and Society
• SO668 - The Sociology of Work
• SO676 - Cultures of Embodiment
• SO678 - Caring for Vulnerable Adults: Understanding Social Care
• SO679 - Research Dissertation
• SO684 - Globalization and Development
• SO689 - Drugs, Culture and Control
• SO702 - Sociology and Social Politics of the Family
• SO709 - Modern Chinese Societies
• SO710 - War, Atrocity and Genocide
• SO712 - Urban Sociology
• SO505 - Sociology of Crime and Deviance
• SO506 - Popular Culture, Media and Society
• SO509 - Health, Illness and Medicine
• SO525 - Environmental Politics
• SO532 - Mental Health
• SO533 - Gender, Crime and Criminal Justice
• SO534 - Violence and Society
• SO535 - Youth and Crime
• SO536 - Criminal Justice in Modern Britain:Development, Issues and Politics
• SO537 - Race and Racism
• SO538 - Childhood, Society and Children's Rights
• SO539 - Environmental Policy and Practice
• SO575 - Poverty, Inequality and Social Security
• SO594 - Terrorism and Modern Society
• SO595 - Reproductive Health Policy in Britain
• SO601 - Welfare in Modern Britain
• SO603 - Health and Health Policy
• SA503 - A Future for the Welfare State? Social Change, Challenge and Crisis
• SA519 - The Social Politics of Food
• SA525 - Education,Training and Social Policy
• SA531 - The Care and Protection of Children and Families

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5

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

Requirements

Home/EU students

The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications, typical requirements are listed below, students offering alternative qualifications should contact the Admissions Office for further advice. It is not possible to offer places to all students who meet this typical offer/minimum requirement.

• A level: ABB

• Access to HE Diploma: We welcome applications from students on accredited Access courses.

• BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC National Diploma): The university will consider applicants holding BTEC National Diploma and Extended National Diploma Qualifications (QCF; NQF;OCR) on a case by case basis please contact us via the enquiries tab for further advice on your individual circumstances.

• International Baccalaureate: 34 points overall or 16 points at HL

International students

The University receives applications from over 140 different nationalities and consequently will consider applications from prospective students offering a wide range of international qualifications. Our International Development Office will be happy to advise prospective students on entry requirements.

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 of Kent.

Funding

Kent offers generous financial support schemes to support eligible undergraduate students during their studies. Our 2013 financial support package includes a fee waiver and cash bursary, as well as additional funds on your Kent account to help with accommodation, food, books and other living costs. Find out more on our fees and funding page.

General scholarships

Scholarships are available for excellence in academic performance, sport and music and are awarded on merit. For further information on the range of awards available and to make an application see our scholarships website.

The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence

At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created a new scholarship, The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence, which will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of AAA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications as specified on our funding pages.

The Sociology and Economics programme at the University of Kent offers students a comprehensive interdisciplinary education designed to develop a deep understanding of social structures, economic processes, and how these domains interact within contemporary society. This joint honours degree combines the analytical frameworks and methodologies of sociology and economics, equipping graduates with critical thinking skills, quantitative and qualitative research abilities, and a broad perspective on social and economic issues.

Throughout the course, students explore core topics such as social inequalities, globalization, economic policy, development, labor markets, and public policy. The programme emphasizes empirical research, encouraging students to engage with real-world data, case studies, and fieldwork to understand complex social and economic phenomena. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, tutorials, and work-based learning opportunities, providing both theoretical insights and practical skills.

Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including specialized laboratories and extensive online resources, facilitating effective research and analysis. The programme is designed to foster critical analysis, independent thought, and effective communication skills, preparing graduates for diverse careers such as policy analysis, economic consultancy, social research, public administration, or further postgraduate study.

The course is supported by experienced academic staff who are actively involved in research, ensuring that students receive up-to-date knowledge and insights into current social and economic issues. The University of Kent's strong links with industry, government bodies, and research organizations provide students with opportunities for placements, internships, and networking events, enhancing their employability upon graduation. Overall, this programme aims to produce versatile graduates capable of analyzing complex societal challenges and contributing to evidence-based decision-making at local, national, and international levels.