Social Sciences

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Where to start

Studying social sciences at postgraduate level can be a passport to some of the most challenging and rewarding fields of employment. Central and local government, education, planning, health and social care, law, market research, the media, and public services are common career choices.

Our postgraduate social sciences courses give you the opportunity to study for general or research interests, for further professional development in a particular subject, or to enhance your career prospects with a high-level qualification.

The Faculty of Social Sciences is currently reviewing its postgraduate curriculum. We are not able to provide any further information at present but we will publish details on this website as soon as our plans are confirmed.

Where to start in Social Sciences

If you started your studies in May 2011 you will need uninterrupted study in order to complete the required courses before these qualifications are withdrawn. The certificates and diplomas will no longer be available after December 2013, and the masters degrees won’t be available after December 2014.

Research degrees

For information about postgraduate research degrees, visit the Research Degrees Prospectus.

Undergraduate options

See the list of undergraduate courses and qualifications in Social Sciences.

Postgraduate

Spotlight on Social Sciences

A thriving research culture

Studying with the OU ensures that you benefit both from our tradition of excellence and innovation in teaching, and the latest thinking on real-world issues, as programme content is fed by our vibrant research culture.

Social Sciences academic wins BSA book prize

Dr Jacqui Gabb was a joint winner of the British Sociological Association (BSA), Philip Abrams Memorial prize for her book Researching Intimacy in Families (Palgrave Macmillan, 2008). This book is innovative in drawing methodology and theory together. Read more here.

Your questions

We may have already answered it in our frequently asked questions.

Or contact an adviser in our Student Registration & Enquiry Service Email or call +44(0) 845 300 60 90 +44(0) 845 366 60 35