COURSE CURRICULUM

The BSS (Hons) Social Studies program is structured over four years and combines academic learning with extensive practical experience. In the first year, students study subjects such as introduction to social work, psychology, social policy, sociology, economic policy, and political science, with a mix of lectures, tutorials, and independent study. They are also required to complete 40 hours of volunteering to gain early practical experience and connect theory to real-world situations. In the second year, students continue with core subjects including social work theory and practice, law for social workers, social policy, psychology, and social research, alongside field trips to relevant organisations. A key component is a 10-week placement after assessments, providing hands-on experience in a professional setting. In the third and fourth years, students study more specialised topics such as family and child care, mental health, equality issues, human rights law, and advanced social work practice, including counselling skills. Practice placements are central to the program, taking place each year in different social service settings such as hospitals, child welfare teams, and community projects. These placements account for about 30 percent of the course and are supported by experienced practitioners and academic tutors, ensuring students develop strong practical skills alongside their academic knowledge.