Social Science, Community Development and Youth Work (Hons)

Overview

Combining academic study in the social sciences with fieldwork placements in community development and youth work, the programme will enable you to develop as a youth and community development worker equipped for the particular contexts and challenges of the twenty-first century.

The programme is underpinned by a commitment to social justice and equalities and provides opportunities to specialise in areas such as youth offending, community arts, faith-based practice, conflict transformation, international development and community enterprise.

Why study BA Social Science, Community Development and Youth Work (Hons) at Goldsmiths, University of London?

• You'll undertake placements in several community and youth work settings, and will gain invaluable experience that will enhance your employability
• The degree can lead to careers in the broad community development, community and youth work field in statutory, voluntary and independent sectors
• Our lecturers have extensive experience in the community and youth work sector, and work closely with you to maximise your potential
• You'll learn how to analyse relevant theoretical concepts and social policies, and how to link them to practical situations and your personal practice
• You'll attend a three-day residential module in the January of the first year, where you'll get to know other students and staff, while participating in programmed activities

• Teaching methods encourage student participation and include lectures, seminars, group and individual tutorials, group work training meetings, workshops and practical exercises

Skills

The programme will give you practical experience in several community and youth work settings – having this real-world experience will set you apart in the job market. In addition you will develop the following transferable skills:

• Critical analysis of theoretical concepts
• critical reflection
• teamwork
• organisational skills
• motivation
• research methods

Careers

On successful completion of the programme you will be awarded a BA (Hons) degree in Applied Social Science, Community Development and Youth Work; a professional qualification recognised by the National Youth Agency (NYA) and the Joint Negotiating Committee for Youth and Community Workers (JNC).

The programme can lead to careers in the broad community development, community and youth work field in statutory, voluntary and independent sectors. Former students have gone on to work as:

• managers and staff in community projects
• youth officers
• community development workers
• substance misuse workers
• youth workers in a range of settings, including schools and youth offending teams
• learning mentors

They have also worked in the following areas:

• international development projects
• setting up their own projects and organisations
• community cohesion projects
• multi faith work
• community work
• innovative projects within schools
• community arts projects
• youth offending teams
• field of conflict transformation