Applied Social Sciences University of Sheffield

Overview

The Applied Social Sciences programme at the University of Sheffield provides students with the analytical tools and theoretical knowledge required to confront the most pressing challenges in modern society. This degree focuses on practical research applications, teaching you how to collect and interpret diverse data to influence real-world change. By combining core social science principles with specialised expertise, you will learn to communicate complex findings to varied audiences effectively.

Why Applied Social Sciences at the University of Sheffield?

Studying at this institution allows you to tailor your learning experience by selecting optional modules from across the Faculty of Social Sciences, including criminology, politics, and human geography. The University of Sheffield is recognised for its world-leading research, which directly informs the curriculum. Students benefit from small seminar groups, dedicated support teams, and access to outstanding facilities, including extensive library collections and modern study spaces. The programme also offers an optional placement year in industry to enhance your professional network and employability.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: GBP 23810 per year
• National fee: GBP 9535 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

First year

• Foundations of Social Science
• Reading Social Science
• Lies, Damned Lies and Statistics
• World Politics
• Crime in Global Context
• Cities, Places and People
• Exploring Human Geographies
• Living with Environmental Change
• Data Visualisation

Second year

• Employability and Engagement
• Mixed Methods Research
• Quantitative Research
• Qualitative Research
• Sustainable Development and Global Justice
• Culture, Space and Difference
• Oppression and Resistance
• Punishment and Penal Policy
• Dynamics of Social Change and Policy

Third year

• Analysis, Evaluation and Interpretation
• Dissertation in Applied Social Sciences
• Collaboration and Dissemination in the Social Sciences
• Ethics of Political Leadership
• Global Culture Wars
• Protest, Movements and Social Change
• Organised Crime and Illicit Markets
• Youth Crime and Justice
• Algorithms, AI and Society

Careers with Applied Social Sciences

Graduates are well-prepared for professional roles that require sophisticated data handling and social analysis. Former students have secured positions at prestigious organisations such as the Civil Service, the National Centre for Social Research, and Capita. Common career paths include roles as Data Analysts, Research Officers, and Research Analysts, where graduates apply their skills in investigating and evaluating social trends. The degree also provides a strong foundation for further academic study or specialised training in policy and social advocacy.