Social Science
The Bachelor of Social Science (BSocSc) program at UNSW is specifically designed to combine the worlds of research and policy. It prepares students for research and policy work by providing training in social science skills in conducting research and analysing data, along with skills in policy analysis, report writing, and project management.
Students learn how to access existing knowledge but also to create new knowledge that can be applied in their workplaces - a skill which is in high demand in today's knowledge economy. Students also learn to understand the world of policy. Every workplace has policies, and policies govern much of our lives. Of relevance to students are questions such as: Should ‘P' platers have a curfew? Should hotels be closed at 2am? Should there be a high tax on ‘alcopops'? These questions emerge because of higher level policy issues, such as the number of road deaths among pplate drivers and the issue of alcohol-fuelled violence.
Practical Experience - The Social Science Research Project
Third year students undertake a major social science research project in one of several policy areas. The project involves bringing together the research and analytical skills necessary for policy-related work and will involve students in all phases of the project.
Download the Social Science Information Flyer (PDF) (198 Kb)
Career Opportunities
Our graduates have found jobs in the public, community, and private sectors. Examples of these jobs include:
* Researcher, Crime Prevention Division of the Attorney Generals Department
* Policy Officer, Department of Energy, Utilities and Sustainability Risk Management Consultant, J&H Marsh and McLennan
* Public Policy Officer, NSW Road and Traffic Authority
* Regional Public Relations Manager, Asia Pan Pacific Hotels and Resorts, Singapore
* Assistant Policy Officer, Environmental Protection Authority
* Research Officer, Department of Family and Community Service
Public Sector: Research Officer, Policy Advisor, Political Advisor, Speech Writer, Research Consultant
Community Sector: Environment, Disability, Women's Health, Program Management, Community Development, Information Officer
Private Sector: Organisational Management, Marketing, Marketing Research, Corporate Affairs Management, Private Consultant
International Opportunities
As one of Australia's most international universities UNSW encourages students to spend a session or two overseas studying at one of our partner institutions as part of your degree. UNSW manages a large and active exchange program with over 180 different student exchange opportunities in 32 countries.
Program Information
UAC Code: 422006
UNSW Code: 3420
The Bachelor of Social Science is a three year degree comprised of a core program in social science, policy analysis and research methods, combined with a major chosen from the following list. Most majors include a selection of nine courses studied over the three years. The Bachelor of Social Science is also available as a combined degree with Social Work, Law, Art Theory, Science.
Majors:
Development Studies
Economics*
Environmental StudiesGeography (Science)
History
History and Philosophy of Science
Human Resource Management*
Industrial Relations
International Business*
International Relations
Marketing*
Philosophy
Political Economy
Politics
Psychology (Science)
Sociology and Anthropology
* Australian School of Business
2010 Courses
Level 3 Courses
Resources
Request an Information Pack
Information packs are available for undergraduate and postgraduate study.
Student Profile
Simon O'Connor, 2nd year International Studies
UNSW is easy to get around and get involved in. The diversity of societies and organisations UNSW offers allows something that each person can relate to. It…
