What role can you play as a social scientist beyond the University? This module explores our public responsibilities as social scientists to share our knowledge beyond university walls and contribute to social change locally, nationally and globally. You will consider how ideas, theories and practice from your studies can impact the real-world causing real change. Together, we'll discuss the major social challenges that public social scientists encounter today and what can be done about them. The module also encourages you to think about life after university, considering the responsibilities and opportunities you have as a social science graduate to bring your insight and expertise to the world.

This module critically examines the multifaceted ways in which state actions can contribute to social harms, injustices, and environmental degradation. Students will explore state-induced crimes through a critical criminological lens, focusing on how policies and actions can perpetuate systemic inequalities and harm both individuals and communities globally. The module introduces sense-making theories, providing tools to analyse and evaluate the impact of state actions on broader social injustices, including ecological damage and economic inequality. Through a combination of theoretical insights and real-world case studies, students will critically assess topics such as state violence, environmental harms, economic policies, and human rights violations. Key learning outcomes include the ability to analyse the global impacts of state-induced crimes, apply theoretical frameworks, and devise strategies for mitigating harms. The module emphasises practical, socially responsible approaches to addressing systemic issues, equipping students with actionable skills to contribute to meaningful change. With a structured curriculum spanning ten weeks, topics include the historical and contemporary dimensions of state crime, environmental and social injustices, and the role of human rights frameworks. By the end, students will be well-prepared to critically engage with these pressing global challenges and advocate for justice in diverse contexts.

You will develop as a social researcher, equipped to undertake your own research projects. You will learn how to design research plans, manage ethical issues, undertake data analysis, and present your findings. You will develop skills in both qualitative and quantitative research methods, and practice methods in small group settings. You will apply your learning to a research topic of your choice, developing and generating knowledge on real-world phenomena relevant to your intended future career. You will be supported one-to-one by a supervisor with research expertise who can advise throughout your project. You will develop investigative, analytical and presentation skills that will be of value throughout your career.

This module develops students’ critical understanding of the wider social, political and cultural issues which both challenge and inform the helping relationship. This increased understanding enables students to consider the implications for the helping relationship, leading to a greater awareness of the issues which inform and shape the lives of the helper and helpee.

This module explores a range of organisations where counselling skills are used, and considers how the dynamics and culture within these organisations effects the use of those counselling skills. Students are introduced to a range of careers within the field of counselling and perform a critical examination of those roles within their specific context.