Psychosocial studies derived out of a desire to develop a programme in the social sciences that enables us to think about individuals' lived experiences not just from a psychological perspective or a sociological one but in a much more holistic way. Society shapes the way that individuals experience their worlds and, in turn, our inner worlds influence our thoughts, actions, and relationships. The two facets are dynamically and intimately related to each other and to focus on just one aspect severely limits our perspectives of human beings. To become a professional community practitioner, one needs not only a theoretical and ethical understanding of people's personal motivations, circumstances, beliefs, backgrounds, behaviours, cultures, etc., but one also needs to critically consider the societal structures and systems that impact lives.
This course is about the real world, engaging with a wide range of problems and issues including mental health, social care, racism, psychotherapies, class, families, gender, employment, youth, and ageing. You'll get to grips with the policies and systems of service user delivery, issues of power, oppression, and social justice, as well as community development and human and social needs. Students will develop their understanding of reflexive practice and professional standards of conduct, performance, and ethics in relation to governance which regulates working with diverse service users and change-makers. You will be taught by cutting-edge academics who bring their research, critiques, and experiences to their teaching and have some very lively discussions
On this degree, we use a range of assessment methods to ensure you have engaged with the learning outcomes of our modules.
Knowledge is assessed by essays, plans, presentations, journals, blogs, portfolios, photography, and case studies.
Thinking skills are assessed by reflective logs, project work, poster presentations, research reports, case studies, and responses to reflective questions.
Our graduates have gone on to further study and/or entered the following careers: Researcher, Civil Service, Advice/welfare work
Voluntary sector /NGO officer, Community development worker, Housing officer, Equality and diversity officer, Criminal justice
Social worker