Written by Isobel Crowne, a third-year BASS student

I am a 3rd year BA Social Sciences (BASS) student studying Sociology and Data Analytics. I would highly recommend taking the BA Social Sciences course where you have the option to study Sociology alongside another social science. The University of Manchester has a fantastic Sociology department with enthusiastic lecturers and a broad range of modules to choose from. Studying the BA Social Sciences course means you have extra flexibility throughout your degree to cater your modules to your interests as there are less compulsory modules. I chose to study Data Analytics alongside Sociology to increase my employability and enhance my understanding of social issues.

In my first year I had one compulsory module called Engaging with Social Research. This module gives all those on the BASS course, regardless of subject choice, a grounding in multiple social sciences, exploring issues from different perspectives. In my second and third year I didn’t have any compulsory Sociology modules therefore I could really cater my degree to my interests. I am particularly interested in sustainability and chose to study Global Social Challenges and Sustainability, Consumption and Global responsibilities which were both fascinating courses. Alongside my Sociology and Data Analytics modules, BASS has given me the flexibility to study four Criminology modules throughout my degree. Sociology has a broad range of assessment methods, I prefer course work over exams so I chose modules which included essays and blogs.

A highlight of studying at the University of Manchester is the opportunity to undertake a Q-Step internship in the summer of your second year. I worked at the Home Office for eight weeks studying the gender pay gap, which was fascinating and helped me see what a career in the Civil Service would be like. This really enhanced my degree as it allowed me to apply the skills I have learnt at university in the workplace. The careers service at Manchester is excellent and helped me work on my application to secure this placement. There is tonnes of support available at the University of Manchester from staff and other students, with lots of people available to help with any issue you may have.

Living in Manchester as a student is great as there is so much to do you never get bored! There is lots to see in the city and tons of independent shops to wander round in the Northern Quarter, with one of my highlights being the vintage shops. At the university there are societies suited to everyone so it is guaranteed there will be something here for you!

Overall, I would really encourage you to come to the University of Manchester to study Sociology as I guarantee you would have a great experience here. I would also strongly recommend considering the BASS course to broaden your knowledge of multiple social sciences, and allow yourself the module diversity this course offers.

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