Foundation Year

Social Sciences Pathway

A spray painting on a brick wall with a padlock on.

If you are looking to progress to an undergraduate degree in the Social Sciences, our pathway will provide you with the skills you need.

The Social Sciences pathway is designed to support students hoping to progress to a range of programmes offered by our Department of Languages and Linguistics; our Department of Government; our Department of Economics; Essex Business School; and our Department of Psychosocial and Psychoanalytic Studies.

You'll study four modules:

  • Knowing Your World from Language to Politics, which explores the intricate relationship between language, society, and politics, and how these shape our interactions and the world around us. 
  • Analysing the Social and Political World sharpens your practical and analytical capabilities, guiding you to critically and effectively utilise data, with a focus on political and social contexts.
  • Our research and skills module, Research and Academic Development Skills  forms the cornerstone of your foundation year, teaching you the essential skills to thrive academically at university.
  • People and Society  introduces you to Sociology, Criminology, Psychoanalysis, and Psychosocial studies, showcasing how essential theories in these disciplines can be applied to individuals, groups, organisations, and society at large.

Throughout your foundation year, you'll cultivate problem-solving abilities, excel in team and group dynamics, foster critical thinking, master working with data, and refine both written and oral communication skills, all while embracing the reflective practice.