Introducing the Social Sciences

Overview

The Introducing the Social Sciences programme offered by The Open University UK provides an ideal introduction to the social sciences – psychology, social policy and criminology, geography and environment, politics and international studies, economics and sociology. 

You will use a blend of text, audio, video and online materials, you’ll be equipped with a range of skills for independent study and for your personal and working life.

You will learn

• the nature of the social sciences and the ways they develop through a process of questions, arguments, evidence and evaluation

• some key issues and debates at the centre of life in the contemporary UK.

You’ll develop an awareness of a range of different disciplinary approaches in the social sciences and you will gain confidence and skills in:

• studying and accessing information from a range of sources
• constructing arguments
• reading, interpreting and evaluating evidence
• presenting and communicating ideas and information in a variety of formats
• managing your time
• communicating effectively
• learning from feedback
• reflecting on your own learning.

Vocational relevance

After this module, further study in the social sciences could open up employment opportunities in a wide range of occupations. These include business, financial services, education, health professions, administration, law, social services, voluntary and campaigning organisations, media and PR, public service organisations and government, planning and environmental management, the criminal justice system, and social welfare organisations. The module builds a strong basis of vocationally oriented skills that are transferable to the job market.