If you are fascinated by the human mind and the way in which society shapes our world, then studying psychology and sociology will allow you to indulge in this interest. To better understand the world around us, we need to discover what makes us tick and what motivates us to take the actions that we do.
By studying a psychology and sociology combined degree, you will be able to explore various theories that are linked to cognitive and behavioural abilities. Given the broad spectrum that these subjects cover, you will be able to pursue a rewarding career.
Having a psychology and sociology degree, UK learners, will open the door to various career paths, so you can use your knowledge and your interest to work towards a position that fulfils you. Below, we have delved into the relationship between psychology and sociology, the qualifications you can achieve, and the career options available to you.
What Do Sociology and Psychology have in Common?
By opting to study a psychology and sociology combined degree, you will be exploring the various similarities that these two subjects have, including:
- People – Both of these subjects refer to the scientific study of people
- Human attributes – If you are studying a psychology and sociology degree, UK learners will focus on various human attributes, including emotions, behaviours, and relationships
- Skills – Both require the same set of skills, such as communication, listening, observation, research and more
- Goals – Sociology and psychology focus on the same goal, enhancing lives and improving the state of society
While there are plenty of similarities, there are also differences between the subjects, of which we have listed below:
Psychology
- Studies the mind and behaviours of individuals
- Explores emotions and behaviours such as stress, mental health, intelligence and more
- Focuses on one person at a time
- Psychology can be applied to research and careers that involve working with certain individuals
Sociology
- Studies a societal construct as a whole rather than individuals
- Explores economics, social change, education, and more
- Focuses on community issues
- Sociology can be applied to careers that involve a large group
What Do You Cover in a Sociology and Psychology Degree?
If you decide to study a psychology and sociology degree, UK students will have various universities to choose from. Most students choose to study a BSc (Hons) degree that is accredited by the British Psychological Society, which guarantees comprehensive training in psychology as well as the principles of social structure and systems.
You will likely have the option to study a three-year degree or a four-year degree, which includes a year-long placement. While the content of degree courses differs depending on the university, there is a general construct. A psychology and sociology combined degree is likely to include:
- An introduction to psychology, including core modules in biological, developmental, social, and cognitive psychology
- Training in research methods
- Social structure and social life, taking a sociological approach to thinking and covering classical sociological theory
- Research project in psychology
- Potential option to undertake additional modules
What Qualifications Do You Need to Study a Psychology and Sociology Degree?
Each university sets its own entry requirements, so it is important to check the criteria before you apply for a psychology and sociology degree. UK-based learners should know, though, that they are likely to need the following:
- GCSEs in English and Maths in grade C/4 or above (or Functional Skills equivalent)
- At least two A Levels or BTEC
If you do not possess A Levels, then there is an equivalent route you can take. Most universities accept Access to Higher Education Diplomas as alternatives to A Levels, but you should check before applying. You can study an Access to HE Diploma with Stonebridge Associated Colleges.
We provide an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Science) – Psychology and Sociology Pathway course that delves into the relationship between the two disciplines. You will learn about sociological theories, prejudice and discrimination, as well as the motivations behind a person’s behaviour.
While studying for your Access to HE Diploma, you will cover a variety of units, focusing on the following:
- The relationship between health and mental wellbeing
- The importance of approaches and research in psychology
- Crime and deviant behaviours
- Cognitive psychology
- Sociological explanations of the family
- The origins and influences of social policy
- The social construction of health
You will also explore the following:
- The Welfare State
- The brain and nervous system
- Prejudice and discrimination
- The role of mass media
- Abnormal psychology
- Education in society
- How crime is measured
- Psychological responses to stress
- Current issues in social policy and ways of measuring poverty
To achieve your Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Science) – Psychology and Sociology Pathway, you will need to complete a series of assessments based on the units covered during your course. Each end-of-unit assignment will be marked by an experienced tutor, and you will receive feedback that will help you progress to the next stage.
Upon successful completion, you will be issued with an accredited Level 3 Diploma, which will allow you to apply for a psychology and sociology degree. UK learners have one year to achieve their diploma, but on average, students complete it in 9-12 months.
What Jobs Can I Do with a Psychology and Sociology Degree?
By completing a psychology and sociology combined degree, you will have an opportunity to embark on a variety of careers in different sectors. You would have already gained plenty of knowledge and skills during your Level 3 studies prior to starting your degree, but once completed, you will be equipped to work towards various careers.
The types of sociology and psychology degree jobs are wide and varied. In fact, you may want to consider one of the following career paths:
- Social Work
- Counselling
- Teaching
- Health and Social Care
- Government
- Community Development
You may also be suited to the careers below:
- Advertising
- Charity Work
- Human Resources
- Business Administration
- Personnel Management
As you can see, all of the above jobs vary in terms of responsibilities and sectors, which is great if you are unsure what direction you want to pursue. You must keep in mind, though, that you may require additional training and qualifications to embark on the careers mentioned.
Begin Your Career Journey Today!
If you are keen to study a psychology and sociology degree, UK learners can kick-start their journey by studying qualifications that could help them secure a place at university. You can do this with the help of Stonebridge Associated Colleges, who provide an array of regulated and accredited online courses.
To assist in your career path towards sociology and psychology degree jobs, you can learn one of our courses. During your study, you will benefit from the following:
- Flexible study – Learn your course at a time that suits you, at your own pace
- Study anywhere you choose – To progress through your course, you simply need a laptop/computer and a stable internet connection
- Unlimited access –As soon as you enrol, you will be given 24/7 access to your online course materials
- Tutor support – You will get feedback from an experienced tutor to help you progress through the course
- Innovative platform – Get everything you need all in one place in our student portal
To fulfil your ambitions of studying a psychology and sociology combined degree, discuss your options with our Course Executives by calling 0121 392 8288. Alternatively, contact us online or click below to learn more about what courses we offer.
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