What will I learn on this module?
You will be introduced to some of the key issues and debates in the social sciences such as those around a good life/society, democracy, citizenship, social change, mobilities, solidarities, power, culture and identities/self. These issues will be illustrated through classical and contemporary case studies, demonstrating links to the undergraduate curricula in the social sciences, notably criminology, sociology, politics and international development. A range of social scientists (from criminology, sociology, politics and international development) will also reflect on how their disciplines have developed distinctive professional practices and identities as they have engaged with these ‘Big Ideas’ in recent years.
How will I learn on this module?
You will be taught through a weekly two hour lecture and 1 hour workshop/seminar discussion. The latter includes a variety of activities such as posters, debates and short presentations. The ‘Big Ideas’ lectures will be delivered by a range of teaching staff from the social sciences department drawing on their different research and scholarship. External practitioners will also be invited to deliver guest lectures.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
You are able to meet with tutors for individual tutorials to help with assessment planning throughout the module. A key part of the module is the discussion of weekly learning/tasks and how these contribute to the final assessment – you therefore are supported in various ways to ensure you engage with the challenges posed by the assessments for this module.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding
1. You will develop knowledge and understanding of some of the classical and contemporary issues and debates in the social sciences.
2. You will understand how academics and/or practitioners develop new ideas and insights into the social world.
Intellectual / Professional skills and abilities
1. You will recognise some of the features of the professional practices of different academic disciplines (such as criminology, sociology, politics, international development) and how these study the social world.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA)
1. You will develop an understanding of some of the political, ideological and ethical debates that frame the social scientific study of the social world.
How will I be assessed?
Assessment 1 (end of module) MLO 1-4
2,000 word essay – students are asked to write a biographical essay that illustrates how at least two of the ‘Big Ideas’ they have encountered on the module have influenced their own lives.
Electronic feedback via the Blackboard module site.
Pre-requisite(s)
None
Co-requisite(s)
None
Module abstract
You will be introduced to some of the key issues and debates in the social sciences such as those around a good life/society, democracy, citizenship, social change, mobilities, solidarities, power, culture and identities/self. These issues will be illustrated through classical and contemporary case studies, demonstrating links to the undergraduate curricula in the social sciences, notably criminology, sociology, politics and international development. A range of social scientists (from criminology, sociology, politics and international development) will also reflect on how their disciplines have developed distinctive professional practices and identities as they have engaged with these ‘Big Ideas’ in recent years.
Course info
UCAS Code L3L4
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 1 year Full Time followed by a further 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Social Sciences
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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