Cynlluniau Astudio

Sociology and Politics


1 : Awarding Institution / Body
Aberystwyth University


2a : Teaching Institution / University
Aberystwyth University


2b : Work-based learning (where appropriate)


Information provided by Department of Geography and Earth Sciences
- AU's Year in Employment Option

3a : Programme accredited by
Aberystwyth University


3b : Programme approved by
Aberystwyth University


4 : Final Award
Bachelor of Science


5 : Programme title
Sociology and Politics


6 : UCAS code
LL32


7 : QAA Subject Benchmark


Information provided by Department of Geography and Earth Sciences
- Politics and International Relations
Sociology


8 : Date of publication


Information provided by Department of Geography and Earth Sciences
- September 2023

9 : Educational aims of the programme


Information provided by Department of Geography and Earth Sciences
- The Aims of the BSc Sociology and Politics degree scheme are:
• To develop a broad and deep understanding Sociology and Politics; the content, methods and philosophies of both disciplines and the significant synergies between them;
• To provide a structured programme of delivery that is academically rigorous and meets current and future benchmarking requirements;
• To encourage selected specialist knowledge and understanding through research-led Level 3 optional modules in those areas where DGES, International Politics and other relevant departments at AU, have expertise;
• To produce graduates with a wide range of analytical, critical and technical abilities within Sociology and Politics;
• To develop powers of critical, analytic thinking and logical argument;
• To develop competence in a range of subject-specific and transferable skills including literacy, numeracy, computer literacy, problem setting and problem solving, research skills, report writing, and fieldwork skills;
• To encourage independent study and thought, enquiring minds, and a commitment to personal scholarship of the highest standard.


10 : Intended learning outcomes


Information provided by Department of Geography and Earth Sciences
- On completion of the BSc Sociology and Politics degree programme students should:
• be able to critically evaluate ideas, concepts and approaches across the disciplines of Sociology and Politics, in particular, in relation to the significant synergies that exist between the two disciplines;
• be able to carry out independent research, applying a range of skills in relation to data collection, analysis and presentation;
• have developed a range of skills and be able to apply them to a variety of Sociological and Political issues;
• be able to recognize that their learning experience has been positively reinforced by exposure to research;
• be able to evaluate their own performance in a range of learning contexts and under different modes of assessment;
• be able to work independently, in a team and with a social awareness of the contribution made by scholarship and applied research in their discipline to political issues and social policy;
• have the necessary skills and awareness to seek employment in a variety of professional careers or to begin postgraduate research and study


10.1 : Knowledge and understanding


Information provided by Department of Geography and Earth Sciences
-
  • A1 A comprehensive knowledge of the core domains within Sociology and Politics, and their applications A2 an understanding of the relationship between Sociology and Politics, and cognate disciplines e.g. history, criminology, human geography. A3 a comprehensive appreciation of the assimilation within Sociology and Politics of themes, theories, methods, and findings from other discipline areas A4 a comprehensive appreciation of the integration of ideas, theories, concepts and methods which can occur within both subjects, and between them A5 a comprehensive knowledge of a range of research methods and measurement relevant to Sociology and Politics


Learning and Teaching
Acquisition of knowledge and understanding is through a combination of lectures (A1-A6), group seminars (A1-A4, A6), coursework (A1-A6) and practical work (A1-A6), as well as through supervision (A1-A6). Throughout, the learner is encouraged to undertake independent study both to supplement and consolidate what is being taught/learnt and to broaden their individual knowledge and understanding of the subjects of Sociology and Politics, as well as the relationship between them.

Assessment Strategies and Methods
Knowledge and understanding are assessed through a combination of seen and unseen examinations (A1- A6) and in-course assessments (A1-A6), in the form of practical reports (A1-A6), essay assignments (A1-A4,A6), group presentations (A2,A3,A5,A6), portfolios (A3), in-class tests (A1, A2, A3, A5), project report (A2, A4,A5), oral presentations (A1-A6) and research participation (A2), and eLearning assessments that include Wikis and Blogs (A1-A6). Importantly, the whole degree encourages, promotes, and facilitates active learning where students are able to learn through less formal means, such as the Politics Society, the Geographical Society and public lectures. Students are also supported through academic progress meetings with their personal and/or subject tutors.


10.2 : Skills and other attributes


Information provided by Department of Geography and Earth Sciences
- 10.2.1 Intellectual Skills
By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to demonstrate:
  • B1 the ability to integrate simple and challenging ideas and empirical findings and assess the relevance of theoretical knowledge in applied contexts

  • B2 the ability to extrapolate and comprehend the application of knowledge within the areas of Sociology and Politics

  • B3 the ability to display critical thinking skills

  • B4 the ability to process information in a manner displaying advanced cognitive skills

  • B5 the ability to define and appreciate complex problems and offer solutions

  • B6 Integrate and critically evaluate information and data from a variety of sources to construct cogent arguments

  • B7 Attend to the distinction between primary and secondary sources of information

  • B8 Reflect on experience of learning and adjust intellectual perspective



Learning and Teaching
Student development of intellectual skills from B1-B8 are promoted through lectures, group seminars, coursework, and practical work, as well as through supervision at year 3. Throughout, the learner is encouraged to undertake independent study both to supplement and consolidate what is being taught / learnt and to broaden their individual knowledge and understanding of the subject. The application of these skills in the context of specific areas of political and sociological enquiry is demonstrated through lectures and seminars for core and optional modules at Levels 1, 2 and 3. Reflection and self-assessment (B9) are integral to the learning of intellectual skills and will be developed through feedback on summative and formative assessments and through the online PDP facility.

Assessment Strategies and Methods
Intellectual skills (B1-B8) are assessed through a combination of seen and unseen examinations and in-course assessments, in the form of practical reports, essay assignments, portfolios, in-class tests, project report, group and oral presentations, and research participation, as well as eLearning assessments. The use of reflection tools through the PDP are used to develop the students critical awareness and identify their performance. Personal tutors provide feedback regarding academic performance of students.

10.2.2 Professional practical skills / Discipline Specific Skills
By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to demonstrate:
  • C1 Interact ethically and professionally with research participants

  • C2 Generate and explore complex hypotheses and research questions

  • C3 Initiate, design and conduct empirical-based studies involving a variety of methods of data collection

  • C4 Analyse and interpret quantitative and qualitative data relevant to politics and sociology

  • C5 Effectively employ specialist computer packages (at years 2 and 3) to analyse and use numerical, statistical and other data using quantitative methods

  • C6 Effectively employ thorough advanced qualitative approaches and methods to analyse complex text, media and human experiences

  • C7 Search specialist databases to be able to conduct and write literature reviews

  • C8 Evaluate, present and communicate effectively complex findings by a variety of means, such as a research report



Learning and Teaching
Practical skills are developed through a series of lectures, seminars, workshops and practical classes at years 1 and 2 and further developed through a supervised independent research project at year 3. C7 is also acquired through essay writing at all levels. Throughout, the learner is encouraged to consolidate practical skills (C1-C8) through practice with appropriate research methods and projects.

Assessment Strategies and Methods
Practical skills are assessed through practical and project reports (C1-C8), statistics tests and examinations (C4-C5), poster presentations (C1-C6; C8), portfolios (C1-C2; C8), and Wikis (C4, C8), group and individual presentations (C2, C7, C8). At year 3 the independent project may, depending on the topic, assess any or all of outcomes C1 to C8.


10.3 : Transferable/Key skills


Information provided by Department of Geography and Earth Sciences
- By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to demonstrate:
  • D1 Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing

  • D2 Work effectively within a group

  • D3 Work and learn independently

  • D4 Manage time, resources, and work to deadlines efficiently

  • D5 Effectively use information and communication technology to produce and present ideas and documents

  • D6 Show respect for the views and ideas of others

  • D7 Identify career opportunities

  • D8 Decision making; Identify problems and provide solutions

  • D9 Recognise the need to continually update knowledge and skills

Learning and Teaching
The programme aims to promote, develop and nurture students’ awareness of and competence in these key transferable skills, many of which students will already possess to a greater or lesser degree of competence. All of these skills are integral to teaching and learning activities across the programme and are embedded in the degree scheme. Others (D7-D9) are developed through specific modules and learning activities, e.g. group work (D2) is developed through data collection and analysis exercises, and compliments the independent skills developed in most modules. Throughout, the learner is encouraged to develop transferable skills by maintaining a record of evidence and completing a personal development plan (PDP) initiated in year 1.

Assessment Strategies and Methods
Transferable skills are assessed through unseen examinations, in-class tests (D1, D3); laboratory reports, essays including placement essay, project report (D1, D3-D5,D8), poster presentations, mini- projects and laboratory group work (D1-D6,D8), portfolios (D6 and D7). In addition, a number of the above skills are explicitly assessed at various points during the programme through a range of methods, including the Dissertation project (D1, D3-D5, D8), oral presentations (D1-D2), group debates and discussions (D2,D6).


11 : Program Structures and requirements, levels, modules, credits and awards




BSC Sociology and Politics [LL32]

Blwyddyn Academaidd: 2024/2025Cynllun Anrhydedd Sengl - ar gael ers 2020/2021

Hyd (astudio Llawn Amser): 3 blwyddyn

Rheolau Rhan 1

Blwyddyn 1 Craidd (60 Credyd)

Compulsory module(s).

Semester 1
IP12420

Exploring the International 1: Central Concepts and Core Skills

IP12620

Behind the Headlines

Semester 2
IP12920

Politics in the 21st Century

Blwyddyn 1 Craidd (60 Credyd)

Compulsory module(s).

Semester 1
GS15120

Thinking Sociologically

GS17100

Introducing Sociological Research

Semester 2
GS16120

Key Concepts in Sociology

GS17120

Introducing Sociological Research

Rheolau Rhan 2

Blwyddyn 2 Craidd (80 Credyd)

Compulsory module(s).

Semester 1
GS20220

Genders and Sexualities

GS20620

Cementing Sociological Research

Semester 2
GS21220

Sociological Research in the 'Field'

GS25020

Sociological Theory

Blwyddyn 2 Craidd (20 Credyd)

Compulsory module(s).

Semester 1
IQ23920

People and Power: Understanding Comparative Politics Today

Semester 2

Blwyddyn 2 Opsiynau

Choose 20 credits from the following options in the Department of International Politics.

Semester 1
GQ20920

Y Meddwl Cymreig mewn Syniadaeth Ryngwladol

GQ23720

Gwleidyddiaeth mewn Cymdeithasau Amrywiaethol

IP20720

Climate Change and International Politics in the Anthropocene

IP21420

Climate Change Politics

IP23020

Science, Technology, and International Relations

IP23820

The European Union: Politics, Policies, Problems

IP26420

The Second World War in Europe

IP29220

International Politics and Global Development

IQ20220

Intervention and Humanitarianism

IQ20320

The BRICS in World Politics

IQ23420

Total War, Total Peace

IQ23720

Politics in Diverse Societies

IQ24920

Russian intelligence from Lenin to Putin

IQ25120

Strategy, Intelligence and Security in International Politics

Semester 2
GW20120

Cysylltiadau Rhyngwladol: Safbwyntiau a Thrafodaethau

GW25020

Datganoli a Chymru

IP20120

International Relations: Perspectives and Debates

IP20820

Militaries and Crisis: Where Strategy Meets Society

IP22220

Political Theory

IP22320

The Governance of Climate Change: Simulation Module

IP24520

Terrorism & Counter Terrorism in the Modern World: Policing, Intelligence & War

IP25020

Devolution and Wales

IP25320

Warfare after Waterloo: Military History 1815-1918

IP26820

Questions of International Politics

IP28320

A War on the Mind: Propaganda and Secret Intelligence from the Great War to the 21st Century

IP28720

Contemporary Latin America

IQ21620

Trade Wars and the Liberal Order

IQ22820

Capitalism and International Politics

Blwyddyn Olaf Craidd (60 Credyd)

Compulsory module(s).

Semester 1
GS31200

Sociology Dissertation

GS33320

Everyday Social Worlds

Semester 2
GS31240

Sociology Dissertation

Blwyddyn Olaf Opsiynau

Students must choose 60 credits from the following optional modules. Students may not register for year 3 variants of year 2 modules, which they have already studied. Up to 20 credits may be taken from appropriate modules offered elswhere in the University.

Semester 1
GQ30920

Y Meddwl Cymreig Mewn Syniadaeth Ryngwladol

GQ33720

Gwleidyddiaeth mewn Cymdeithasau Amrywiaethol

GW30000

Dulliau Ymchwil + Traethawd Estynedig

IP30000

Dissertation

IP31420

Climate Change Politics

IP33020

Science, Technology, and International Relations

IP33820

The European Union: Politics, Policies, Problems

IP36420

The Second World War in Europe

IQ30220

Intervention and Humanitarianism

IQ33720

Politics in Diverse Societies

IQ34920

Russian intelligence from Lenin to Putin

Semester 2
GW30040

Dulliau Ymchwil + Traethawd Estynedig

GW35020

Datganoli a Chymru

IP30040

Dissertation

IP32220

Political Theory

IP34520

Terrorism & Counter Terrorism in the Modern World: Policing, Intelligence & War

IP35020

Devolution and Wales

IP38320

A War on the Mind: Propaganda and Secret Intelligence from the Great War to the 21st Century

IP38720

Contemporary Latin America

IQ31620

Trade Wars and the Liberal Order

IQ32820

Capitalism and International Politics


12 : Support for students and their learning
Every student is allocated a Personal Tutor. Personal Tutors have an important role within the overall framework for supporting students and their personal development at the University. The role is crucial in helping students to identify where they might find support, how and where to seek advice and how to approach support to maximise their student experience. Further support for students and their learning is provided by Information Services and Student Support and Careers Services.


13 : Entry Requirements
Details of entry requirements for the scheme can be found at http://courses.aber.ac.uk


14 : Methods for evaluating and improving the quality and standards of teaching and learning
All taught study schemes are subject to annual monitoring and periodic review, which provide the University with assurance that schemes are meeting their aims, and also identify areas of good practice and disseminate this information in order to enhance the provision.


15 : Regulation of Assessment
Academic Regulations are published as Appendix 2 of the Academic Quality Handbook: https://www.aber.ac.uk/en/aqro/handbook/app-2/.


15.1 : External Examiners
External Examiners fulfill an essential part of the University’s Quality Assurance. Annual reports by External Examiners are considered by Faculties and Academic Board at university level.


16 : Indicators of quality and standards
The Department Quality Audit questionnaire serves as a checklist about the current requirements of the University’s Academic Quality Handbook. The periodic Department Reviews provide an opportunity to evaluate the effectiveness of quality assurance processes and for the University to assure itself that management of quality and standards which are the responsibility of the University as a whole are being delivered successfully.