This module provides an introduction to sociological and social theory, as well as key sociological concepts, and demonstrates the breadth of sociological investigation in contemporary society. It considers the making of social identities – both individual and collective with a focus on theorising social divisions, in particular diversity and inequality. The module proposes thematic applications of social science, including education, work and leisure, consumption, culture, knowledge and belief, impairment, normalcy and disability, as well as the body, health and medicine.  

Additionally, the module considers the making of Sociology as a discipline, reflecting upon the considerable roles that modernity and colonialism have played in its development and direction. The module also fosters an understanding of the contributions of authors from within and beyond the sociological canon in thinking about what is next for sociological research. 

Alongside fostering the requisite sociological knowledge, the module equips students with core academic skills.

This module introduces students to contemporary debates concerning the increasing impact of human activities on the climate and natural environment, with a particular focus on the connection between global inequalities, environmental issues, and global heating.

Students are supported to develop a basic understanding of climate science and to apply social scientific reasoning and analysis to a discussion of the causes and implications of contemporary climate change. The module draws on scholarly and climate justice perspectives from the global South, indigenous people’s movements, and Feminist, antiracist and world-systems analysis of global inequality, environmental issues, and climate change, enabling students to explore how critical social scientific perspectives can bring novel insights and contributions to bear on one of the most pressing issues of our time.

Explore how media shapes public perceptions, in particular in reference to deviance in this dynamic sociology and criminology module. "Media and the Representation of Deviance" delves into the influence of both traditional and contemporary media platforms on societal views, looking in particular at deviance, from crime to inequality, mental health and politics. Students will examine key academic literature and theories, learning to critically analyse concepts such as agenda-setting, news values, and media framing, as well as influential models like Chomsky and Herman's propaganda model and moral panic theory. The module covers the evolution of media, from its historical roots to the complex world of social media, examining the power dynamics in media ownership, the regulatory landscape, and the framing of social issues. Through case studies, students will apply theoretical insights to real-world examples, understanding how media representations impact public opinion and influence policy on topics like mental health, poverty, welfare, and crime. By the module's end, students will be equipped to construct well-supported arguments on the role of media in shaping social inequalities, understand its power in influencing societal outcomes, and critically reflect on emerging trends in media representation. This module is essential for anyone interested in understanding the media’s role in constructing narratives around deviance and its broad impact on society.

This module will explore how crime, deviance and harm are constructed, perceived and responded to in society. This content will include key ideas associated with differential treatment and experiences of the criminal justice system for marginalised and under-represented groups in society. There will also be a theoretical and practical exploration of the interrelationships between crime and harm, social problems and their context. This will support students to look beyond traditional frameworks to focus on non-conventional forms of crime and harm, especially those committed by the ‘powerful’. The module will also assist students in developing the core academic skills needed throughout their Undergraduate degree. This will include guidance for searching, identifying and engaging with relevant academic literature to effectively organise and articulate ideas and arguments. Furthermore, students will be encouraged to seek opportunities to develop their career readiness. Through this, students will be guided and supported to discover their interests and passions to enable them to explore potential career paths.