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How customising your course can enhance your degree

Electives

Electives are modules from a subject area that’s different to your core course. As a first- and/or second-year student on most of our single-honours undergraduate courses, you take electives from an exciting range of subjects, which is updated each year. Each elective lasts for one term.

The range of electives is one of the main reasons I wanted to come to Sussex. It gives you opportunities to broaden your studies.” Emily Jane
Politics BA

Discover electives

• Arts and Humanities
  • Advertising (E)

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    This module engages with the historical development of advertising and opens up a critical understanding of its contemporary place within the media (and its economies), culture and society.

    In the 21st century advertising has been transformed by the rise of branding, the maturing of the internet and the emergence of new media forms like social media. Traditional advertising forms and the funding model for media which advertising has provided are now under threat.

    This module will introduce you to current thinking about advertising and demonstrate various approaches to the analysis of its many forms.

  • American Cities

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    American Cities explores the history, culture and significance of a particular US city, examined in detail throughout the term. From foundation to its current manifestation, the module will contextualise the city in terms of the development of the United States and its colonial and expansionist histories, the urban economy, and its relationship to changing American populations. The myths of the city will be compared to the realities, and a truly interdisciplinary approach will be taken throughout. History, film, literature, and music will be studied alongside one another to firmly locate the city in its relationship to the national story. Possible cities include New York, New Orleans, Chicago, San Francisco and Los Angeles, depending on which of these is taught in any given academic year.

  • American Political Culture

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1; Year 2, Term 1

    American political culture is rooted in a shared set of ideals, including liberty, equality, social justice, democracy, and individualism. These are not always realised in practice.

    You will explore how electoral politics and the democratic process have been promoted and challenged in American culture. Drawing on a wide range of American Studies methodologies and theories, and taking a cultural-historical approach, you will focus on the subjective side of American politics.

    You will examine debates around memory, militarism, race, gender, religion, nativism, populism and identity, and how they have been expressed in beliefs, attitudes and cultural practice from the 1750s to the age of Trump.

  • Analysing Film (E)

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1; Year 2, Term 1

    This module draws upon both 20th-century and contemporary film texts to explore the diverse uses filmmakers have made of such key techniques of cinematic expression as narrative, cinematography, mise-en-scene, editing, sound, and special effects. We consider not simply how such techniques are accomplished (ie the creative choices available to filmmakers) but also the potential they have for generating meaning and pleasure when combined together to produce filmic texts. The module also examines links between technological change and film aesthetics.

  • Art and Artists

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2; Year 2, Term 2

    Art and Artists I is a 11-week level-one module taught in the Autumn term. It deals with one of the central issues of the study of the subject: how did 'great artists' gain their reputation both during their lifetime and subsequently? Some artists' reputations have not been constant whilst others have been admired for very different reasons at different times.

    This lecture series looks at a variety of cases presenting different 'histories' of the artist across a time-span from the ancient world to the Renaissance, and focussing on a particular set of issues surrounding the conceptualization of the artist and artistic creativity in the classical, Byzantine and/or mediaeval periods; the issue of anonymity; the artist versus the craftsman; and related issues of historiography. The module may cover painters, printmakers, sculptors as well as artists whose achievements were in the applied arts. It complements, but is not a pre-requisite for, Art and Artists II.

  • Careers in the Cultural & Creative Industries

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1; Year 2, Term 1

    Through a range of engagements with Alumni industry professionals, group activities and individual research, you will acquire the skills and knowledge to develop and manage your career interests and progression, now and throughout your life.
    
    You will be supported to reflect on your current skills, values, and priorities, and analyse how these relate to your individual portfolio project. You will hear from speakers about a range of different careers and entrepreneurship opportunities developed and enjoyed by our global network of Alumni. Your independent work will culminate in a one-to-one conversation with a self-selected Alumni industry professional. These discussion will take place online, helping you to consider both national and international employment markets and opportunities.
    
    By acquiring a knowledge of employability and entrepreneurship in your chosen sector, you learn how to identify and reflect on

    • career options - both those you aspire to and some that you haven't considered before
    • career options that are emerging through developments in technologies and cultural changes
    • career options that question and challenge the status quo.

    You will consider how to best position yourself during and after your degree, and into possible career pathways, while staying in touch with the constantly expanding and evolving network of ßÏßÏÊÓƵ Alumni at the forefront of industry and social change.

  • Creative Production in the Arts

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2; Year 2, Term 2

    On this module, you’ll be introduced to technical production skills in the arts. You’ll learn to start applying these skills through your own creative ideas. You’ll explore the basics of a range of technical production modes across the arts such as:

    • lighting and sound for theatre
    • scenographic and costume design
    • film editing
    • media content creation
    • stage/project management.

    The module offers tasters in a crossdisciplinary range of production practices relevant to the contemporary arts. It is suitable if you’re brand new to technical production, or if you’re seeking to develop your skill sets. You’ll produce a portfolio in which you devise a design concept or technical plan for an arts project.

  • Culture and the Everyday E

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2; Year 2, Term 2

    Everyday life is something we take for granted. The phrase tends to refer to the ordinary and unremarkable, to the bedrock activities constitutive of how we live but which are often regarded as tedious or a chore.

    This module opens up this notion offering an understanding of the everyday as simultaneously ordinary and extraordinary, localised and tied into the bigger dynamics of capitalism and globalisation.

    Introducing you to the interdisciplinary perspectives of cultural studies, you explore everyday life through a series of case studies. These may include:

    • dressing or exercising the body
    • food
    • car culture
    • going green
    • love
    • living through media
    • shopping.

    Each case study variously explores the historical development of everyday life, its textures and experiences, hardships and highs.

    If the emphasis is so-called modern everyday life in the rich 'north', you are encouraged to understand the ways our everyday life is tied to and impacts on the everyday lives of those in the much poorer 'south'.

    Emphasis is placed on the ways in which everyday life practices may be conservative (reproducing gender relations for example) or utopian in their creativity, suggesting other ways of living beyond the constraints of neo-liberalism capitalism. What happens in the everyday - its struggles, its changes - is integral to a bigger global politics.

    This module gives you opportunity to reflect on your own lives and those of others. It encourages you to develop an 'anthropological' eye and feel for the details of everyday life, to collect media and other material that speaks about everyday life, and above all to be self-reflective and critical about the specificity of your own ways of doing things.

    Assessment is through an illustrated Learning Diary, which allows you to demonstrate your creative as well as academic skills.

  • Global Cinema E

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2; Year 2, Term 2

    This module looks at international film of the last five decades. A range of films will be studied in order to explore: genre and art cinema; post-colonialism and political cinema; gender and feminist cinema; and globalisation and popular cinema.

    We will study important movements in post-war film culture, including Third Cinema from Brazil and political cinema from Senegal. We will address the relationship between gender, history, allegory and national cinema (examples may include films from Tunisia, Iran and Argentina). We will also examine the aesthetics and economics of the blockbuster in a global film culture (case studies may include contemporary films from South Korea, China, India and Australia).

  • Language, Mind and Brain

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    This module focuses on linguistic ability as a unique quality of humans. How does human language differ from animal communication systems? How is the human body, particularly the brain, adapted for language? Is language a special kind of cognition, or the product of general higher cognitive abilities?

    We further investigate how humans understand and produce speech in such a speedy and efficient way, using a variety of evidence to evaluate theories of how the mind is structured for speech. We'll ask questions like: How are words stored in the mind so that we can find them? Why are grammatical sentences like 'The horse raced past the barn fell' actually very difficult to comprehend? Why are words sometimes 'on the tip of the tongue'?

  • Leading Social Change: Communication and Activism

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    Working with the local community, this module builds on the communication and leadership skills necessary to lead action for social change.

    This practical work is facilitated by the charity Citizens UK, who match students with local campaigns or voluntary organisations. Exploring issues that impact various communities, you will find links between your discipline and ways in which ‘community work’ can be undertaken.

    In workshops, you will:

    • engage critically with current debates about social justice
    • analyse historical and contemporary campaigns (looking at forms of direct action and activist writing)
    • build practical skills (storytelling, negotiation, and delivering leadership speeches) to make positive social change.
  • Leading Social Change: Taking Action

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    Working with the local community, this module builds on the practical skills necessary to lead action for social change.

    The project you will undertake is facilitated by the charity Citizens UK, who match students with local campaigns or voluntary organisations. Exploring issues that impact various communities, you will find links between your discipline and ways in which ‘community work’ can be undertaken.

    In workshops, you will:

    • engage critically with current debates about social justice
    • develop leadership skills (such as organising action)
    • create strategies to improve collaborative approaches to challenging oppression and promoting social justice.

     

  • Music and Society

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2; Year 2, Term 2

    Music does not exist in isolation from society. Many cultures in the world have no word for music conceived as an entity distinct from the contexts in which it takes place – contexts such as social or religious ritual, dance or performance. Only in modern western culture has the idea of art music as something autonomous and removed from the everyday world evolved. 
    
    Why is music meaningful to us, and how can we understand how music has meaning at all? What is the function of art music in cultures dominated by commercial values? How can we grasp the relationships between the multiplicity of musical forms that are available in a modern globalised culture? How can we evaluate the impact of the different media and technologies by which music is disseminated and consumed? These are some of the questions that this module seeks to address.
    
    The module also aims to introduce you to different intellectual approaches to these questions, and to broaden your engagement with the issues through independent research. The module charts recent musical history both in terms of technical innovation, and social and aesthetic concerns of the composers involved. The aim of the module is to stimulate awareness of recent musical thinking and also to use that awareness to re-examine more conventional musical views and habits.

  • Paying for the Past

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1; Year 2, Term 1

  • Questioning the Media E

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1; Year 2, Term 1

    This module introduces the study of media forms, texts and systems and their contribution to social life. You will begin to explore the breadth of media studies through attention to the ways in which media matter. In what ways, and how significant are the media in the formation of individual identities and in the practices of everyday life? In the more public world, to what extent are media key to providing knowledge and enabling the debate necessary to the practices of democracy? The module enables you to build on your own experiences of media as a consumer and user. But it also encourages critical attention to how the field of media studies has historically been forged: through argument and contestation between different academic approaches and disciplines.

  • Race and Ethnicity in US History

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    This module examines the history of African-American political, cultural, and social developments from 1863 to the present. Its principal goal is to familiarise you with the debates that African Americans have had among themselves between emancipation and the present day, thus establishing a deep historical understanding of the ongoing freedom struggle in the late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries.

    It assesses intraracial arguments over the relationship of blacks to the US government in war and peace, over racial and class identities, and over diverse tactics and strategies for the advancement of the race. Although particular attention is given to the long running campaign to destroy de jure segregation in the southern states (culminating in the successful nonviolent direct action campaigns of the 1960s), the course is predicated on the demonstrable fact that racial prejudice was a national not a regional phenomenon.

    Lectures and seminars interrogate the connections between African American history and culture. Emphasis is given to well-known black leaders like Booker T. Washington, Marcus Garvey, and Martin Luther King, but female activists and the unsung black masses themselves also receive close attention.

  • Society, State and Humanity

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2; Year 2, Term 2

    On this module, you'll:

    • focus on the relationships between people, society and the state
    • explore what makes a ‘good’ society rather than a ‘bad’ one
    • explore social theory and criticism to understand the problems within society.

    Famous figures you'll look at include:

    • Aristotle
    • Hobbes
    • Rousseau
    • Hegel
    • Marx
    • Durkheim
    • Freud
    • Marcuse
    • Adorno.

    You'll also develop your ability to engage with and evaluate the work of important social and political philosophers, and critically evaluate their ideas.

     

  • Sustainability and Climate Justice

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    Sustainability seems to be everywhere: sustainable products, sustainable businesses, sustainable cities. Yet the concept also has critics. Is sustainability too vague? Does it really serve the needs of climate justice?

    In this module, you will dive into the big sustainability controversies, such as climate reparations, degrowth, post-development, and rights of nature.
    
    By using exciting interdisciplinary approach, rooted in the arts and humanities, you will:

    • use climate psychology and ecocriticism for insights into eco-anxiety and environmental activism
    • bridge gaps between popular perceptions of climate change and the latest scientific evidence
    • explore how art, culture, history, and games can contribute to creating just climate futures.
  • The Age of Adolescence: Reading 20th Century Youth Culture

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1; Year 2, Term 1

    This module will explore representations of adolescence from the early 20th through to the early 21st century in theory, literature, film and popular culture. You’ll look at the ways in which the adolescent morphs into the teenage consumer in the 1950s in novels such as Colin MacInnes’s Absolute Beginners.

    You’ll also consider the adolescent as a site of cultural fantasy and cultural fears in relation to class, race, gender and sexuality. You’ll look at the adolescent’s relationship to radical politics, subculture, utopia, nostalgia. You will use representations of the adolescent as a modern constructed identity to teach the skill of close reading, and historical contextualisation in texts that range from Willa Cather to Spring Breakers.

  • The Look of America

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2; Year 2, Term 2

    This module takes as its premise the notion that ever since the explosion of mass media and mass society in the industrial age, the United States has taken an increasingly dominant place in the global visual imagination. This process reached its peak at the beginning of the 20th century, America henceforth generating for the world innumerable iconic and hegemonic visual representations of its own cultural narratives.

    The task of the module will be to investigate and deconstruct some of the products of this visual field, along with the ideologies and narratives that sustain and refract them. Hence we begin by introducting you to visual theory, especially as it applies to the American context, and provide you with the critical tools necessary for the module. We then locate the period under scrutiny (1860-2001) within a broader visual and cultural prehistory, illuminating the roots of the modern world and its visual scene. After this, the module concentrates more particularly on the culture of the late-19th and 20th centuries.

    Following a more or less thematic pattern, the module examines the issues that emerge over the course of the 20th century, referring forwards and backwards in order to generate connections where appropriate (for example, linking the Farm Security Administration projects to Matthew Brady's Civil War photographs). The intention here is to introduce you to aspects of visual culture and its criticism, as well as to defamiliarise and explore some of the more familiar American iconography surrounding us.

  • Truth and Morality: The Meaning of Life

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1; Year 2, Term 1

    In this module, you study the central issues of morality, examining both the kinds of considerations that might be appealed to in moral arguments, and the status of moral arguments themselves.
    
    What should we bear in mind when deciding whether to eat meat, or whether to help someone, or whether to fight a war? In what sense are the decisions we make right? How can a moral argument be a good argument? Are some people wiser than others? Is there any truth in moral relativism?

    You tackle these and related issues from a range of theoretical positions.

  • Video Games: Creative & Critical Writing

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1; Year 2, Term 1

    Video and computer game design involves sophisticated and imaginative construction across hardware, software and aesthetics. Games are intersections between creative culture in arts and design, storytelling, music, and technology. As with all cultural works, they should be subject to thoughtful critique.

    The module introduces seminal examples, key texts of game theory and relevant critical theory. Students will consider the creative aspects of writing for games including:

    • narrative and storyboards
    • world building
    • shooting/scripts
    • characters and avatars
    • players
    • virtuality and corporeality
    • queer feminist game play
    • play
    • addiction
    • algorithms and chance.
• Business, Finance and Economics
  • Corporate and International Finance (Elective)

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    In this module, we’ll help you to foster critical understanding of the important ideas and analytical tools used in corporate financial decision making.

    You’ll develop an appreciation of the challenges to implementing these ideas and tools through debate in the corporate finance literature and events reported in the financial press.

    Lectures will cover topics such as:

    • the corporation
    • the nature of financial decision making
    • interest rates
    • valuing bonds
    • investment decision rules
    • capital budgeting
    • valuing stocks
    • capital markets and the pricing of risk
    • portfolio choice and the capital asset pricing model
    • the cost of capital
    • investor behaviour and capital market efficiency
    • capital structure in a perfect market
    • debt and taxes
    • financial distress
    • managerial incentives and information
    • payout policy
    • mergers and acquisitions.
  • International Business Environment

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

  • International Business Strategy (Elective)

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    This elective module is not suitable for students of BSc International Business. Do not choose this module if you are on BSc International Business. International business is concerned with how firms engage in transactions and value-adding activities outside of their national boundaries. The module examines the various elements of international business strategy (e.g. entry mode, partner selection in joint ventures, location) and how the organisational structure of the firm is best configured to its strategy. Consideration will also be given to the impact of foreign direct investment on host and home economies. Additionally, you will be able articulate and explain different approaches to international human resource management and knowledge governance after completing this module.

  • International Marketing (Elective)

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    This module represents an introduction to international marketing and aims to develop knowledge of the international environment and international marketing. The increased scope, risk and complexity faced by the international marketer is due to the increased level of uncertainty from operating in diverse and less understood environments.

    Emphasis is placed on the identification of challenges presented by international marketing to equip students to deal with differences, opportunities and threats emerging from diverse economic, demographic, political/legal, cultural, technical and competitive environments.

    The impact of international issues is related during the course to the marketing decision-making task at three levels; the macro level at which country selection decisions are made; national level at which market entry decisions are made; and market level where marketing mix decisions are made.

  • Introduction to Accounting (Elective)

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    This module is designed as an introduction to accounting and financial management for managers.

    The module introduces accounting and financial management topics gradually, examining basic principles and underlying concepts before demonstrating how accounting statements and financial information can be used to improve business decision-making.

    The module focus is for students of business and management as decision-makers and users of financial information.

  • Introduction to Business and Management (Elective)

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    Introduction to Business and Management is an introductory study of contemporary organisations and their management. It explores the types of purposes of organisations, their stakeholders (CSR) and changing environments together with their key managerial processes – entrepreneurship, organisational structure, leading, strategic planning and change.

    The focus throughout is on helping you achieve a critical and reflective approach, and learning to apply relevant concepts, tools and models.

    The coursework component of assessment requires you to choose an organisation that is of interest to you and to explore, critically, the way in which it handles a process of your choice. You are supported in this by the submission of a structured proposal on which formative feedback is given.

    Seminar activities are participative and require preparatory work which is signposted though downloads and links on Study Direct well in advance.

    Lectures are interactive, employing the use of quizzes and featuring clips from YouTube, such as Dragons' Den excerpts.

    An unseen examination completes the assessment profile and you tackle a case study (which revisits keys concepts) in the final seminar as a formative exercise.

    The module provides a platform for later study by encouraging skills in critical thinking, academic writing, concept acquisition and research. Introduction to Business and Management aims to facilitate the transition to university-level learning smoothly, meaningfully and enjoyably.

  • Introduction to Energy Transitions

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    Nothing works without energy, but our current energy systems face mounting economic, social and environmental pressures and must change radically and quickly if the world is to avoid dangerous climate change. This module introduces students to the rationales, challenges, pathways, and policies relevant for such a transition to a low-carbon, sustainable energy system.

    It will raise questions such as: How come politicians have talked about climate change for 20 years but global emissions are still rising? Why is the EU emissions trading system hardly encouraging low-carbon innovation? Can a low-carbon energy system be based on 100% renewables, or are we better off exploring shale gas and building new nuclear power plants? How come so many people agree with the idea of renewables but don't want to live next to a wind farm? Who is shaping the UK¿s energy and climate policy? Will Germany be able to continue pursuing its Energiewende despite ever rising costs? What can local community groups or citizens like yourself do to change our current energy systems?

    In discussing these questions this module builds upon the world leading research base at SPRU (Science and Technology Policy Research), including the exciting and forward-looking work of the ßÏßÏÊÓƵ Energy Group.

  • Introduction to Sustainability

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    This module aims to provide an understanding of the principles of sustainability and, in particular, an introduction to the role of science and technology in contributing to key sustainable development challenges. We explore the origins of the concept of sustainable development and the core ideas that underpin it. We examine the politics and economics of sustainability, the ways in which sustainable development is interpreted by different interest groups, the assumptions made and the contradictions that arise.

    These ideas are illustrated through a series of contemporary case studies, which highlight efforts to address sustainable development challenges from the local to international, and we examine the role of science and technology within these contexts. The case studies include, amongst others: the depletion of oil resources; international negotiations on climate change; biodiversity and conservation; and agricultural biotechnology.

  • Operations Management (Elective)

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    This module provides you with an understanding of how the fundamental principles of operations management can support the improvement of management performance in both public and private organisations.

    During the module, you will apply these principles to both manufacturing and service operations, and gain an understanding of the systemic and interactive nature of operations management problems and their relationship to the external environment. You will develop quantitative and qualitative analytical skills, through guided problem-based activities and case study analysis.

    The content of the module covers:

    • Operations strategy
    • Designing operations
    • Organisation design
    • Planning and control
    • Lean operations
    • Project management
    • Managing quality and continous process/product improvement
    • Managing the supply chain and future direction of travel for operations management.
  • Principles of Finance (Elective)

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    This module provides an introduction to financial markets, instruments and concepts, and is designed for students with no previous knowledge of finance.

    It begins with an overview of different financial institutions, and the products that they commonly provide and trade. Major historical events in the financial markets are also discussed, illustrating their importance in the wider economy. Reference will also be made, where appropriate, to skills and products contributing to personal financial literacy.

    Topics include:

    • concepts relating to equity
    • loan and bond markets
    • beginning with interest rates
    • returns
    • time value of money
    • discounting
    • present value.
• Education and Social Work
  • Access, Equity and Gender

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    Access to education is at the heart of development and is central to the Millennium Development Goals. A lack of education reflects and reinforces poverty and access to quality education is a means for poverty reduction. This module will discuss the global agenda of Education for All, access to education, gender's role and relationship with access to education, at all levels including primary, secondary and higher, and the concept of equity.

    The module has three overlapping themes – Access, Equity, and Gender – which reveal the policy challenges of delivering education for all. The three themes build upon one another sequentially and the module moves through levels of education from pre school to university. Access to education has increased during the 15 years of the millenium development goals, but the 'For All' aspect has not been met. There are still millions of children who do not complete basic education, and higher education is still dominated by the socially privileged in many low, middle and high-income countries.

  • Contemporary Social Policy: Theory and Practice

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    This elective explores and questions the ways in which social policy shapes and is shaped by society, taking a critical approach to investigate contemporary issues in areas such as mental health, disability, parenting, family intervention, education, employment, poverty, youth justice, ageing society, consumerism and choice. While the main focus will be on UK social policy, comparisons from contrasting international social policy models will help to provide rich discussion and debate. The elective looks at the struggles over equality and social inclusion which characterise contemporary social policy positions, using a research-led approach to consider the ways that policies evolve and affect the social well-being of a nation. Throughout 12 weeks it will explore concepts of `social justice,` need, `fairness and `well-being' in relation to UK social policy and policy-driven practices, taking note of the voices of recipients of social policy practices through the involvement of key contacts from those using health and other services in some of the lectures. Learning will take place through a combination of lectures, online activities and student-led seminars. Online learning will include formative assessment through involvement in forums and self assessment quizzes, as well as the opportunity to access discussion groups around case studies and key topics of interest. Students will be expected to prepare work for seminars, and case studies around current issues will be used to promote active problem based engagement with the effects of social policy practice. The module will be formally assessed by an essay incorporating knowledge from research, theory and policy-in-practice.

  • Creating a Forest Food garden

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    In this module, you will collaborate on various practical group activities related to the forest food garden, including designing and implementing aspects of the planting and infrastructure.

    As it takes several years from design to fruition in the garden, you will pass on your achievements and challenges for the next year’s cohort to develop. It places a focus on the political in relation to food growing and land use. The elective explores how to engage wider communities about sustainability issues, using creative, playful and practical approaches. There is a particular emphasis on the complexities, nuances and uncertainties of food systems, climate change and biodiversity loss.
    
    It is not mandatory to have completed Understanding Forest Food Gardens to join this second module.

  • Decolonising Education: Knowledge, Power and Society

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    Decolonising education is critical for social justice in the Global North and South. This raises important questions about the relationships between knowledge, power and society in the past and present. This module addresses these issues. It engages with the politics and history of education in both UK and international contexts. It critiques how the curriculum has privileged particular knowledges and identities in ways that are racialised, gendered and classed. Throughout the module, we relate these issues to students’ own experiences of education and what decolonising education means for them.

  • Discovering Role Models: Peer-Led Mentoring in Schools

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    Discovering Role Models trains you to create and facilitate workshops for local secondary school pupils. The module provides theoretical grounding and practical training to work collaboratively with your peers, developing skills and confidence in participatory facilitation and working with young people.

    The module’s focus draws across substantive issues including:

    • mental health
    • racism
    • sex and relationships
    • expert safeguarding training
    • critically rethinking traditional models of education.

    You may take this as a stand-alone module, but you can only take ‘Developing role models’ (X4911E) in semester 2 (in which the practical school-based work takes place) if you have completed this module.

  • Education for Development: Aid, Policy and the Global Agenda

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    This module is a 15 credit undergraduate module to be offered to Year 1 students in term 1, as part of an International Education & Development 60 credit Pathway.

    This module introduces international education and development through three lenses. The module first examines why education is seen as important for development, drawing upon economic, rights based and socio cultural perspectives. It then examines the way education is measured and targets are set for development. The final section of the module introduces the international actors and political economy of delivering the education for all agenda.

    The module provides grounding in education and international development, with a particular focus on the challenges facing resource-constrained and rapidly expanding educational systems. This will equip students with an understanding of the role of education in international development and develop critical, political and methodological perspectives.

    Suggested topic:
    Section 1: Education and development
    Introduction to the field: the education and development relationship
    Education for economic growth
    Education, development and social equity
    Gender and education for development
    Citizenship, curriculum and identity

    Section 2: Measuring Education For All
    Changing patterns of educational access
    Globalisation and educational reforms: educational quality
    Education and social inclusion
    Education and health in the global south

    Section 3: Architecture of Education For All
    Educational aid and the global agenda: International actors in the field
    Teachers and teacher training in the Global South
    Non-state providers of education

  • Education, Peacebuilding and Conflict

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    In recent years, the nature of the relationship between education, conflict and peacebuilding has risen up the international development agenda.

    In this module, you critically explore the relationship between education and conflict in low income countries. You problematise the complex and multidirectional ways that education and conflict affect each other, and the role that education can potentially play in both the production and prevention of violent armed conflict.

    You cover the delivery of education in conflict and post-conflict settings, thematic issues related to, for example, education for refugees, child soldiers and other marginalised groups - and critically analyse the policies, politics and practices of international organisations operating in these contexts.

    Your studies in this module are grounded both in theory and empirical evidence on the complex issues involved in the delivery of education in conflict-affected contexts, and involve a combination of lectures, participatory group work and presentations.

    Your lectures for this module may be structured as follows:

    • Education, conflict and peacebuilding

      In this introductory lecture, you're introduced to the module, and begin by tracing the rise of interest in the field of education, conflict and peacebuilding both as a field of research and practice. You locate the emergence of the field in relation to post-World War II political, economic and social developments. You trace the events, agencies and relationships that have contributed to the rise in interest in conflict and education that has occurred since 2000. In seminars, you also discuss and examine key readings.

    • The multiple faces of education and conflict

      In this lecture, you focus on the multiple ways that education and conflict intersect and relate to each other. Your studies highlight the way education can be both a catalyst for war and peace. You explore illustrative examples of the different ways that education - as a practice, as an institution, and as a basic social service - can strengthen sustainable peacebuilding processes, as well as undermine them. In seminars, you also discuss and examine key readings.

    • The global governance of education in conflict contexts

      In this lecture, you explore the different agencies and actors involved in the global governance and delivery of education in conflict-affected contexts - from major UN organisations, such as UNICEF, to bi-lateral agencies, such as DFID, international NGOs like Save the Children, nation and regional governments and grassroots social movements. Your studies highlight the different logics and drivers for engagement, the differing priorities and the tensions and contradictions therein. In seminars, you also discuss and examine key readings.

    Other seminar topics in this module may include:

    • the role of teachers in conflict and peacebuilding
    • the delivery of education in times of war
    • refugee education
    • youth, education and conflict
    • education and post-conflict reconstruction
    • education and reconciliation in post-conflict contexts
    • gender, education and peacebuilding
    • attacks on education - motivations and mechanisms of protection
    • education as counterinsurgency - the use of education as a weapon of war
    • conclusions and course wrap-up.
  • Everyday Digital: Generation, Life-Course and Expertise

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    You will examine new thinking on how digital technologies have become part of everyday lives in ways that both create and solve everyday problems.

    This module is interdisciplinary in scope and draws on cutting edge research from across digital sociology and the digital humanities.

    In the first part of the module you will be introduced to key concepts for understanding social and technical change, digital culture and the history of technology in the everyday.

    In the second part you will examine how digital technologies have shaped different stages of the lifecourse – from reproduction and childhood, to adulthood and elderly care.

    The final part will reflect on areas where technology has significantly re-configured everyday, living including romantic relationships, health care and political engagement.

  • Exploring a Forest Food Garden

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    This module explores the campus ‘Forest Food Garden’.

    The practice of harvesting food, medicine and other practical needs from a woodland ecosystem is re-gaining attention as a response to climate change and loss of biodiversity. In this module, global issues are related to local lives, and abstract theories to concrete practices, which can include you preparing/planting the garden, preserving harvested foods, or communications about the forest food garden across the university and beyond.

    The module also examines how forest food gardens sit within wider food systems, including interconnections with economic, environmental, health, political and social factors. There is a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary thinking, drawing on the expertise that you will bring from your degree courses, and an exploration of the value of an inter-dependency within and between human communities and with other species.

  • Exploring Death and Dying; Cultural, Theoretical and Practice Perspectives

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    This elective explores diverse aspects of death and dying. It encompasses history, the arts, the impact of technology, anthropological perspectives, social policy and key theories.

    Underpinning the module is the permission to discuss a subject normally viewed as ‘depressing’ or even ‘contagious’ in an open – and even fun – way. This challenges taboos and creates space to explore a wide range of aspects, from the mundane to the bizarre.

    The module focuses on the UK but we also cover perspectives from South East Asia, Africa, Latin America and other cultures. You will explore:

    • the dominant theories around death and bereavement
    • past and contemporary language about and constructions of death
    • the role of ritual and emotion
    • sociocultural debates around assisted dying and good deaths
    • the impact of digital technologies in transforming the experience of death.

    You’ll learn though a variety of methods, including lectures, group work, course work, external visits and talks by visiting practitioners. Assessment is via a portfolio of work, including contributions to an online group blog, a reflective personal journal and a short term-paper.

  • Exploring Teaching in Schools

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    Are you interested in becoming a teacher? Have you ever wondered whether you have the potential to work with young people in a school context? If so, this module will provide a structured and supportive introduction.
    
    This module will introduce you to working in schools, including policy, theory and practice. It will enable you to understand the role of the teacher within a school setting, working to a set of professional standards required for Qualified Teacher Status. It will enable you to engage with issues around child wellbeing, safeguarding, professional values and teaching and learning as well as the opportunity to participate in observing and working with teachers and other school professionals.

    It will help you to understand the challenges and rewards of working in school sand will introduce you to a range of professional pathways, such as the ßÏßÏÊÓƵ’s PGCE programme. It will also develop a wide range of personal and transferable skills attractive to any graduate employer.

  • Inclusion, Diversity and Equity in Education

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    This module is a 15 credit undergraduate module to be offered to Year 2 students in term 1, as part of an Education 60 credit Pathway. This module provides an opportunity to explore what is meant by inclusion and exclusion and the implications of these concepts for education policies, systems and practices in England and internationally.

    The module will include an in-depth focus on how constructions of gender, race, social class, poverty, disability sexuality and behavioural norms contribute to the inclusion and/or exclusion of particular groups of young people. Each session will adopt a case study approach and provide an overview of the key issues involved in ensuring equality of access, provision and learning. There will be a strong focus on the evidence relating to each case and approaches at practice level.

    The module will be assessed by a case study, providing an opportunity for you to apply your understanding of issues relating to the inclusion and/or exclusion to a group and context which they consider to be of particular interest. The case study will include a discussion of strategies used to promote inclusion and evidence of their effectiveness drawn from a range of secondary sources and conclude with recommendations for policy and practice drawn from the evidence presented.

  • Mental Health and Madness: exploring socio-cultural approaches

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    The ways we understand emotional distress, wellbeing, normality and insanity shape our attitudes and practices in relation to people diagnosed with a mental health difficulty. This can happen whether its framed as difference, problems of thought, a product of society and culture, or a biological mishap. This module explores the social influences that make up our understandings of madness – using this term to situate the module within social-cultural contexts.

    The module will:

    • discuss the history of mental health practices
    • explore the emergence of user-led, alternative and radical movements seeking to transform conceptions of madness, wellbeing and care
    • consider the roles of media and art in constructing images of madness deconstruct notions of diagnosis.

    You learn about the effect of gender, ethnicity, culture and class on mental health and its governance within society. You also reflect on the dynamic interactions between identity, wellbeing and ill-being. Teaching draws on examples from literature, film, the press, autobiography and scholarship to relate theory to lived experiences.

  • Migrant and Refugee Well-Being: Theory and Practice

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    This module offers students the opportunity to examine the well-being of migrants and refugees. Well-being is defined as multidimensional and incorporates the political, economic, health, environment and social contexts in which migrants and refugees exist.

    In the module students examine the historical and political contexts in which different groups of migrants are placed, including the specific situations of asylum seekers and refugees. These are shown to have distinct impacts on the health and social care services migrants receive, and on particular issues of entitlement and access. The welfare contexts of different receiving societies are examined including the impact of current debates on welfare provision for migrants and refugees across the globe. Within these contexts contemporary services for migrants and refugees are examined, including the roles played by central government, local authorities and NGOs. Models of good practice in health and social care are examined as are the prospects for the transfer of good practice across countries.

  • Power in the classroom: global perspectives on curriculum, pedagogy and assessment

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    This module is a 15 credit undergraduate module to be offered to Year 1 students in term 2, either as part of an Education 60 credit Pathway or an International Education & Development 60 credit Pathway.
    
    The module aims to introduce theoretical and conceptual approaches to the curriculum, pedagogy and assessment while encouraging you to critically reflect on your own learning and to know and usefully compare how different countries draw up their curricula, how they teach it and how they assess student learning.

    The module begins by focusing in on how you learn, making direct links to the previous module and situating that learning in your own context. Theories of learning will frame the module. From here, the module explores pedagogical models originating from theories of learning within the UK, Europe and internationally. The following two sessions focus on assessment, discussing your own experiences of being assessed at school and in higher education and drawing in, and critiquing, international comparisons of student learning from surveys such as Progress in Student Assessment (PISA) and Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS).

    The module will then look more closely at how the curriculum is constructed, bringing in political economy, politics, culture and history and will look internationally at different curriculum models in upper, middle and low-income countries. A third session on the curriculum will provide a critical look at alternative curricula for learning such as those in Montessori and Steiner schools, at Free Schools in the UK, and at Complementary Education Programmes for marginalised children in low-income countries. The module will examine who is included in the curriculum and who is excluded, in the UK and in low-income countries.

    The module concludes by looking at global policy drivers for the curriculum, pedagogy and assessment.

  • Spirituality, Wellbeing, and Health: understanding practices and connections.

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    Wellbeing studies focus on what makes a ‘good life’. It takes in areas such as happiness, physical and mental health, economics, environment and spirituality. By linking theories of wellbeing to spiritual practices, this module provides a space to consider how we envisage and experience spirituality in a society often described as secular.

    You’ll consider how spirituality is associated with health and wellbeing in contemporary societies. For example, in the growth of mindfulness practices in a range of health, social care and educational settings.

    We discuss ‘belief’ in wellbeing (and ‘non-belief’ as part of this), considering differences between a religious and spiritual perspective, while treating people’s beliefs with care and respect. You examine evidence for the effectiveness of spiritual practices, such as meditation and prayer, for wellbeing.

    We reflect on the ways individuals and communities use practices that have emerged from a spiritual foundation, such as:

    • mindfulness
    • martial arts
    • chanting
    • yoga
    • shamanic work.

    You'll examine concepts such as ‘flow’ and ‘self-compassion’, and discuss how and why they help describe spiritual practices and experiences in wellbeing. You also consider whether other practices, such as engaging in music and dance, can result in a spiritual experience.

• Global Studies
  • Anthropology through films: Ethnographic Films and Beyond

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    In this module, you are introduced to the discipline of anthropology through the medium of film from the early twentieth century to the present-day.

    You gain an overview of the discipline and its history through film, and addresses some of the central concerns of social and cultural anthropology, including:

    • fieldwork and ethnography
    • sameness and difference
    • religion and ritual
    • kinship
    • gender
    • race/ethnicity
    • migration
    • globalisation.

    You become acquainted with different regional contexts and central theoretical debates in the discipline, through a selection of ethnographic films - produced in countries such as Senegal, Kenya, Canada, Bali, Papua New Guinea, India, Britain, France and along the migratory routes from Afghanistan to Turkey.

    In this module, you produce a short film as part of group work, as well as undertaking a written assignment.

  • Black Lives Matter: Postcolonial and Decolonial Representations

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    On this module, you'll use postcolonial and decolonial theory to explore visual and material cultures in both historical and contemporary contexts.

    Inspired by the legacy of Stuart Hall, the module investigates how Black Lives Matter and examines how the value of black lives and culture has been undermined by prevailing race and racism over time.

    You’ll engage with ‘Black Theory,’ a set of authors who address postcolonial and decolonial politics and highlight the costs of imperial and colonial values on black lives. Each lecture will use cultural texts to critically analyse eurocentric perspectives of other worlds, peoples, and places.

    The module focuses on visual, material, and narrative cultures through which race and ethnicity are negotiated in everyday spaces, their historical roots, and how these continue to shape everyday encounters and discourses. 

    By exploring specific historical and contemporary examples, you'll see how representations of race and racism change over time and in different places.

  • Business in World Politics

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    Are companies political actors? If so, how do they shape world politics? And what should be their role in shaping how political rules are made and societies are governed?
    
    In this module, you will look at these questions from the perspectives of both International Relations and Management Studies. You will explore:

    • why companies engage in politics
    • how they exert political influence, including as lobbyists, partners in governance and agents of implementation
    • what some of the implications are for governance and democracy.

    You will work with case studies from various sectors, including big tech, energy, food and pharmaceuticals. And you will learn how theories on non-market strategy, global governance and power can help us analyse the role of companies in world politics.

  • Culture and Representation (Elective pathway)

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    In this module, you focus on the anthropological master trope of 'culture' and on the political dimensions of representing culture or 'cultures'.

    You consider how anthropological understandings of 'culture', as well as anthropologists' modes of analysing and representing it in anthropological work, developed over the 20th century, partially in conversation with other disciplines.

    You also examine how 'culture' operates as a key idea in the public domain, used by politicians, community and human rights activists, artists, scientists, museum curators and others, in relation to a wide range of issues and debates when distinctions between 'ourselves' and 'others' are at stake.

    Finally, you look at some activities within the cultural domain (such as music, dance, theatre, verbal artistry), which have a performative dimension. You consider how anthropologists have approached these activities to address questions about structure and agency, embodiment, experience, art and aesthetics, creativity, power and protest.

  • Cultures of North Africa, Southwest Asia and Central Asia

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    On this module, you’ll explore the diversity, complexity, and dynamism of social life in the Middle East and Central Asia. You’ll examine various social forms and identities in this region by engaging with general theories and specific ethnographic studies.

    Key topics include:

    • anthropological approaches to the Middle East and Central Asia, tracing the influence of Said's "Orientalism" on the field and examining contemporary ethnographies that challenge or build on these ideas
    • social forms, understanding how tribes, villages, and cities are conceptualised, contrasting earlier, rigid views with recent perspectives that see them as historically contingent and dynamic networks
    • religious identities, exploring the transformation of religious identities across Islam, Judaism, Christianity, and Zoroastrianism, with a focus on new roles and intellectual styles within religious authority
    • youth cultural politics, assessing how youth across the region are influencing societal norms, particularly in light of the Arab Spring and the role of "the youth" in shaping political and social change
    • migration and trade, examining the impact of long-standing migration and trade networks on cultural and social identities, focusing on Middle Eastern migrants over time
    • borderland identities, investigating how people in border regions navigate and sometimes challenge national boundaries and state-driven nation-building projects.

    The module combines lectures, seminars, and case studies, using both Western and non-Western literature to provide a well-rounded understanding of social structures, identities, and cultural change in the Middle East and Central Asia.

  • Environmental Risks and Hazards (Elective)

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    On this interdisciplinary module, you’ll be introduced to the risks, hazards and disasters associated with the Earth’s natural environments and the growing impacts of human activity on them.

    You’ll consider the nature of hazards, disasters, risks, and how their impacts can be reduced through mitigation, protection and adaptation. You’ll discuss the hazards including:

    • the ‘big four’ historical hazards: floods, droughts, earthquakes, tropical cyclones
    • significant hazards: volcanoes, mass movement, biophysical and technological
    • 20th- and 21st-century environmental hazards: sea-level change, climate change causes and consequences, informed by the recent reports of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

    You’ll follow this exploration with a case study focusing on the sensitive cryosphere in which you’ll consider how the Earth’s polar and alpine regions are changing rapidly and generating hazards and risks of global significance.

  • Foundations of International Relations (pathway elective)

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    On this module, you're introduced to some of the main theories and conceptual frameworks for understanding International Relations (IR). We will consider how IR has been constituted as a distinct scholarly discipline. We'll also think about who and what is served by the different lenses through which scholars analyse international relations.

    You'll explore questions such as:

    • what role have colonialism and race played in the making of the modern international order, as well as in shaping received ideas about world politics?
    • how are global patterns of inequality and violence related to the dynamics of global capitalism?
    • why – when the first departments of International Relations were set up – did they not asks these questions, but instead focused on relations between states?
    • what is the significance of international institutions like the UN? To what extent do they help make the world more peaceful and cooperative?
    • what about the role of identities and how we see the relations between self and other? How do gender relations affect all of this?
    • how and why do all these theories matter in the ‘real world’?
  • Gender Across Cultures

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    On this module, you'll focus on the centrality of gender as a factor that structures all social relations.

    You’ll explore topics including:

    • personal and sexual relationships within the household, the labour market and from the state
    • how different cultures perform gender relations and practices
    • the role of gender in the processes of social transformation
    • the impact of industrialisation and migration on gender relations.
  • Global Cultures, Local Lives

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    The module aims to convey a sense of anthropology as an exciting, 'living' subject. Anthropology is:

    • alive to the concerns of different communities and populations living across the globe
    • cutting edge in terms of the research conducted by anthropologists at ßÏßÏÊÓƵ as they actively engage with issues of social, cultural and global transformation.

    The module revolves around five core themes considered central to the subject, capturing anthropological thinking on:

    • culture, identity and representation
    • kinship, self and body
    • economy as culture
    • religion and politics
    • work on the global-local interface.
  • Global Environmental Politics

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    This module critically analyses the actors and issues implicated in the key debates of global environmental politics. You will engage with competing theoretical perspectives about the drivers of and solutions to environmental crises, conflicts and injustices.

    It offers insight into the tensions that constitute the struggle to define our relationship with the environment and addresses empirical case studies such as climate change, energy, and waste. You will gain an understanding of key dynamics and actors in environmental debates, from governments, transnational corporations, international institutions, to civil society organisations and environmental justice movements.

  • Global Issues

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    A major newspaper once claimed that 'nation-states are too small to fix global problems'. What are these global issues? Can they be fixed? What role do nation-states play in creating and solving these issues?

    These are some of the questions that we address in this module by introducing you to a variety of contemporary issues that inform politics globally. These include:

    • climate change
    • health
    • migration
    • populism
    • poverty.

    Each year, the issues discussed are adapted to reflect latest developments in world politics. This module also gives you the opportunity to explore different ways of communicating your analytical insights by creating documentaries.

  • Health, Poverty and Inequality (Pathway elective)

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    On this module, you'll explore issues of culture, power, and knowledge in the study of health and development.

    You'll examine the relationship between poverty, social marginality, and illness in various historical and contemporary contexts, drawing on perspectives from:

    • medical anthropology
    • medical sociology
    • public health
    • cultural psychology
    • feminist and activist politics
    • development studies.

    Key topics include:

    • emerging infectious diseases such as HIV and AIDS
    • homelessness and its impact on health
    • mental health
    • organ donation.

    You'll also scrutinise health policies, particularly in maternal and child health, and explore how the increasing use of medical technologies affects healthcare delivery.

  • Introduction to Climate Justice

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    Climate justice approaches the causes and impacts of climate change in terms of social and historical inequities. This involves understanding how climate change intersects with existing racial, gendered and other inequalities, disproportionately impacting the poor and those least responsible for causing the problem.

    This module introduces you to the concept of climate justice. It explores the colonial roots of the climate and ecological crises, and how they influence solutions proposed today. While designing campaigns that advocate alternatives to climate injustice, you will explore and analyse:

    • carbon budgets
    • links between fossil fuels and economic power
    • calls for just recoveries and reparations. 
  • Introduction to Human Rights

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    This module will introduce you to the academic study – both multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary – of:

    • human rights
    • human rights issues
    • various approaches that different disciplines take in this field.

    It will provide a basic orientation to the international human rights system. You'll be introduced to some of the enduring debates surrounding human rights: their origin, history, nature, universality, how they ‘work’, and how they are ‘made real’.

    Drawing on the expertise of ßÏßÏÊÓƵ scholars in the teaching team, we will explore:

    • the practice of human rights in relation to specific rights (for example women’s rights, children’s rights, rights of asylum seekers and refugees)
    • institutions (for example the United Nations, the European Court of Human Rights)
    • laws and contexts.

    A continuous focus will be the complex and contingent ways that human rights are practiced (defined, claimed, interpreted, challenged, implemented and monitored), as well as the possibilities and limitations of human rights in making the world a better place.

  • People, Culture and the Global Economy

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    On this module, you will learn how social anthropologists have conceptualised, researched, and generated new understandings of the human activities that
    comprise economic life.

    Studying economic life anthropologically requires us to rethink such concepts as work and leisure, poverty and wealth, gifts and commodities, money and markets, and the term 'economy' itself. Economic anthropology enables us to critique the universalism of mainstream economics through which capitalism has become naturalised.

    Using in-depth case studies, we reflect upon humans' material needs on finite planet, considering environments, non-human beings, and care for others as integral parts of economic life.

  • Postcolonial Africa

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    This module explores key debates surrounding postcolonial political, economic, and socio-cultural dynamics in sub-Saharan Africa. You'll critically examine dominant Western representations of the subcontinent and engage with different, often conflicting, perspectives on postcolonial continuities and transformations.

    Topics covered include:

    • the character of the postcolonial state and governance
    • nationalism and ethnicity
    • borders
    • the politics of land and natural resources
    • urbanization processes
    • mobility and new transnational connections between Africa, Europe, and China.
  • Religion and Ritual (Pathway elective)

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    This module looks at the explanation of religious and ritual phenomena. It explores the key theoretical issues by examining ethnographic material that deals with - among other things - initiation, myth, witchcraft, symbolism and religious experience.There is also some treatment of more 'secular' rituals such as carnival and Christmas.

    The focus is on how people believe, what they believe, why they perform rituals and what these rituals look like. It explores classic texts and more recent accounts, to provide insight into the origins and future course of arguments.

  • Security and Insecurity in Global Politics (Pathway elective)

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    Gain an introduction to the broad issue agenda that shapes the contemporary study of (in)security.

    Security has been understood as the protection of sovereign territory through armed force. It has examined issues such as arms races, war and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. These issues were usually addressed through a realist lens that regarded the state and its survival as the central conceptual maxims. But contemporary scholarship on security has broadened this agenda.

    New sources of insecurity have emerged outside the traditional state form. This can be seen in the rise of issues such as terrorism, as well as wider ‘complex emergencies’ on the international security agenda. Moreover, the conceptual lenses for examining these questions of (in)security have increased. This has given rise to new referent objects of security and a wider security agenda, which includes issues such as identity, genocide and the environment.

  • The Liberal World Order - in Crisis

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    Focusing on the post-Cold War era, how did we get from the initial optimistic promise of peace and prosperity, democracy and human rights to the current crisis? What is the nature of the crisis? Since when has the liberal world order been in crisis and for whom? Can a liberal vision of a US-led ‘rules-based order’ re-emerge from under the rubble of Gaza? How do we make sense of liberal states acting benign-liberal domestically, and seemingly illiberal in their foreign relations?
    
    In this module, you will approach the current crisis historically and from a range of different perspectives. You will learn about the past and present relationship between (1) liberalism, capitalism and democracy, and (2) liberalism and war. This includes the seemingly paradoxical histories of core liberal thinkers and political actors promoting individual liberal freedom on the one hand, and (settler) colonialism, chattel slavery and patriarchy on the other hand. We will discuss the extent to which the reproduction and extension of liberal capitalism in the current era continues to involve relations of violence, coercion and constraint.

• Languages and English Language Teaching

  Some of our modules are based on proficiency levels set out in the Common European Framework of Reference to Languages (CEFR).
  .
  Find out more about Modern language electives and pathways.

  • Arabic Advanced A

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    This stage 5 advanced course is for you if you have already acquired the capacity to function with some autonomy in the target language.

    Building on existing levels of proficiency at level B1 (Independent User) of the Common European Framework of Reference [CEFR] the course aims to:

    • enable you to understand the main ideas within extended discourse and to communicate effectively in the target language, with increasing fluency, confidence and spontaneity, in a variety of contexts
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in the target language using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at an advanced level
    • introduce and develop the range of complex elements of target language structures, syntax, and vocabulary to allow continued progression
    • facilitate the analysis of some aspects of the general social, political and/or cultural background of the language through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media, e.g. text; audio; audio-visual; digital.

    Successful completion of the course is equivalent to level B1-B2 (Independent User) of the CEFR for Languages.

  • Arabic Advanced B

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    This moule is for you if you can already communicate with some independence in the target language.

    Building on existing levels of proficiency at level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference [CEFR] the course aims to:

    • enable you to understand the main ideas within extended discourse and to communicate effectively in the target language, with increasing fluency, confidence and spontaneity, in a variety of contexts
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in the target language using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at an advanced level
    • consolidate and develop the range of complex target language structures, syntax, and specialised vocabulary to allow further accuracy and control in use of the target language
    • analyse aspects of the general social, political and/or cultural background of the language through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media, e.g. text; audio; audio-visual; digital.

    Successful completion of the course is equivalent to level B2 of the CEFR for Languages.

  • Arabic Beginners A

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    This module acts as an introduction to the foreign language for those with little or no prior knowledge of the target language (TL).

    This module:

    • enables you to understand basic information and communicate effectively in the TL, in everyday situations at an elementary level
    • provides opportunities across various topics to practise understanding and communication in the TL using the four skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at an elementary level
    • introduces fundamental elements of the TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, and provides a solid foundation for progression in the TL
    • introduces the background culture of the TL through contextualised activities, texts and audio, audio-visual and digital media.

    This module is equivalent to level A1 (Basic User) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

  • Arabic Beginners B

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    You will already have a basic prior knowledge of the target language (TL).

    Building on existing levels of proficiency at level A1 (basic user) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages, this module aims to:

    • enable you to understand basic information and communicate effectively in the TL in everyday situations, at a simple level
    • provide opportunities across a variety of general topics for practice of understanding and communication in the TL using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a basic level
    • introduce fundamental elements of the TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, and continue to provide a solid foundation for progression in the TL
    • present the background culture of the TL through a variety of contextualised activities and text, audio and audio-visual materials.

    Successful completion of the module is at least equivalent to level A2 (basic user) of the CEFR for Languages.

  • Arabic Intermediate A

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1; Year 2, Term 1

    This stage 3 module is for students with some basic knowledge and experience of the target language (TL). Building on existing levels of proficiency at level A2 (Basic User) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages, the module aims to:

    • enable students to understand key information and to communicate effectively in the TL, sometimes spontaneously, in less routine situations, at a standard level
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in the TL using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a standard level
    • consolidate and develop the range of key elements of TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, to allow progression in the TL
    • present the background culture and society of the TL through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media, eg text, audio, audio-visual, digital.

    Successful completion of the module is equivalent to level A2-B1 (Basic-Independent User) of the CEFR for Languages.

  • Arabic Intermediate B

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2; Year 2, Term 2

    This stage 4 intermediate module is for students who can already communicate with some independence in the target language. Building on existing levels of proficiency at level A2-B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages, the module aims to:

    • enable you to understand key information and to communicate effectively in the target language, sometimes spontaneously, in less routine situations, at a standard level 
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in the target language using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a standard level 
    • consolidate and develop the range of key elements of target language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, to allow continued progression in the target language
    • present the background culture and society of the target language through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media, e.g. text, audio, audio-visual, digital.

    Successful completion of the module is equivalent to level B1 of the CEFR for Languages.

  • British Sign Language and Deaf Culture 1A

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    This first-stage module of the 60-credit pathway offers you an introduction to British Sign Language (BSL). You’ll be introduced to the basic visual/manual form of BSL and discover:

    • how to use hands and eyes to form and understand basic signs and sentences
    • what is and isn’t a sign
    • commonly used phrases, questions and imperatives used in conversation, across a range of basic topics (e.g. weather, holidays, shopping)
    • the cultural rules for interaction with Deaf people
    • an introduction to a selection of perspectives on BSL as a language.

    Your classes will include a variety of activities, including regular practice in pronunciation (production of signs) and listening (understanding signs), simulations, practical exercises and conversation. These will be based around themes, grammatical structures and language skills to encourage autonomous use of the TL.

    Seminar activities are complemented by guided independent study, individually and in groups.

    This module is at A1-A2 on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages. Equivalent Signature Level 101; 102.

  • British Sign Language and Deaf Culture 1B

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    This second-stage module of the 60-credit pathway in British Sign Language (BSL) and Deaf Culture will develop your range and conversational technique in BSL in everyday contexts. It will expand your knowledge and awareness of Deaf culture. The module will enable you to:

    • hold a conversation
    • gain a clear understanding on how to sign grammatically correct sentences
    • create your own everyday sentences about everyday topics (e.g. food/cooking, hobbies, travel) in a range of everyday settings
    • study the world of deaf people in the UK and abroad
    • develop study skills to access academic resources relating to deaf people and deaf issues
    • begin to explore deaf culture topics which relate to your discipline.

    Your classes will include a variety of activities, including regular practice in pronunciation (production of signs) and listening (understanding signs), simulations, practical exercises and conversation. These will be based around themes, grammatical structures and language skills to encourage autonomous use of the TL.

    Seminar activities are complemented by guided independent study, individually and in groups.

    This module is at A2/+ on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. Equivalent Signature Level 103 part A; 201 part A.

  • British Sign Language and Deaf Culture 2A

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1; Year 2, Term 1

    This third-stage module of the 60-credit pathway in British Sign Language (BSL) and Deaf Culture will continue to develop your range and conversational technique in BSL in familiar and everyday contexts, and to broaden your knowledge and awareness of Deaf culture.

    Additionally, the module offers you the opportunity to discuss in BSL a specific chosen topic of interest relating to BSL and/or Deaf culture.

    The module aims to enable you to:

    • start and hold a conversation
    • demonstrate confident use of sign language grammar at a basic level and explore more complex structures
    • develop study skills to observe, record and evaluate your own use/understanding of BSL, using video technology
    • work in groups to explore new topics and develop conversations in discursive topics (e.g. types of education, examples of Deaf culture, media, where Deaf spaces form)
    • develop an understanding of Deaf lives and how Deaf cultural identity is encouraged and discouraged across times and places.

    Classes will consist of a variety of activities, including regular practice in pronunciation (production of signs) and listening (understanding signs), simulations, practical exercises and conversation etc., based around themes, grammatical structures and language skills.

  • British Sign Language and Deaf Culture 2B

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2; Year 2, Term 2

    This fourth and final stage module of the 60-credit pathway in British Sign Language (BSL) and Deaf Culture will further develop and consolidate your range and conversational technique in BSL to routine contexts, and broaden your knowledge and awareness of Deaf culture.

    Additionally, the module offers you the opportunity to present and discuss in BSL an agreed topic of interest which relates to your main discipline of study. This may take the form of a community engagement project.

    The module aims to enable you to:

    • use BSL in a range of routine settings, and converse on a topic of their interest
    • demonstrate clear use of sign language grammar at an intermediate level and use of some complex structures
    • present and lead a discussion in areas of interest (e.g. descriptions on types of education, how Deaf culture is manifested, role of the media, how Deaf spaces are formed)
    • complete a project on a topic of interest related to your own studies, as agreed with the tutor
    • develop study skills to create a project report in BSL, supported with references and quotes in English.

    Classes will consist of a variety of activities, including regular practice in pronunciation (production of signs) and listening (understanding signs), simulations, practical exercises and conversation etc., based around themes, grammatical structures and language skills, to encourage autonomous use of the target language.

    This module is at B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. Equivalent Signature Level 202 part B; 203.

  • British Sign Language and Deaf Culture 3A

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    This is a post-beginner stage for if you have basic prior knowledge of the target language.

    Building on existing levels of proficiency at A2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages, you can:

    • develop practical applied competence in the four target language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing
    • consolidate and develop a range of standard lexical, phonetic and grammatical principles to allow rapid progression in the target language
    • encourage autonomous use of the target language
    • develop contextualised cultural knowledge and awareness through study of authentic target language materials in a range of text, digital and audio-visual media.

    This module is at B1 – B2 on the CEFR for Languages.

  • British Sign Language and Deaf Culture 3B

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    This final stage of the 90-credit pathway in British Sign Language (BSL) and Deaf Culture allows you to improve fluency in conversational technique in BSL, to add specialised vocabulary to your repertoire and develop your knowledge of approaches to professional and academic engagement with deaf people.

    You'll aim to:

    • demonstrate, with fluency, clear use of sign language grammar and some complex structures, at an upper-intermediate level
    • analyse your own production, using TL linguistic reference tools
    • take opportunities to use BSL in a professional setting
    • explore opportunities to engage with deaf people on a topic of specific interest
    • develop knowledge of deaf culture and sign language in specific areas of interest (e.g. discourses in teaching and deaf children, development of oralism in 19th century onwards, the evolution of video-telephony technology, implementing human rights in developing countries)
    • translate (e.g. from English to BSL) specific professional and/or academic information in a semi-public arena using commonly available technology (e.g. Facebook, Twitter, vlogs)
    • develop study skills to create an evaluation report in BSL, supported with references and quotes in English.

    This module is at B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

  • Chinese Advanced A

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    This stage 5 advanced course is for you if you have already acquired the capacity to function with some autonomy in the target language.

    Building on existing levels of proficiency at level B1 (Independent User) of the Common European Framework of Reference [CEFR] the course aims to:

    • enable you to understand the main ideas within extended discourse and to communicate effectively in the target language, with increasing fluency, confidence and spontaneity, in a variety of contexts
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in the target language using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at an advanced level
    • introduce and develop the range of complex elements of target language structures, syntax, and vocabulary to allow continued progression in the target language
    • facilitate the analysis of some aspects of the general social, political and/or cultural background of the language through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media, e.g. text; audio; audio-visual; digital.

    Successful completion of the course is equivalent to level B1-B2 (Independent User) of the CEFR for Languages.

  • Chinese Advanced B

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    This module is for you if you can already communicate with some independence in the target language.

    Building on existing levels of proficiency at level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference [CEFR] the course aims to:

    • enable you to understand the main ideas within extended discourse and to communicate effectively in the target language, with increasing fluency, confidence and spontaneity, in a variety of contexts
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in the target language using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at an advanced level
    • consolidate and develop the range of complex target language structures, syntax, and specialised vocabulary to allow further accuracy and control in use of the target language
    • analyse aspects of the general social, political and/or cultural background of the language through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media, e.g. text; audio; audio-visual; digital.

    Successful completion of the course is equivalent to level B2 of the CEFR for Languages.

  • Chinese Beginners A

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    This acts as an introduction if you have little or no prior knowledge of the target language (TL).

    This module:

    • enables you to understand basic information and communicate effectively in the TL, in everyday situations at an elementary level
    • provides opportunities across general topics for practising the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at an elementary level
    • introduces fundamental elements of the TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, and provides a solid foundation for progression in the TL
    • introduces the background culture of the TL through various activities and text, audio, audio-visual and digital material.

    This module is equivalent to level A1 (basic user) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

  • Chinese Beginners B

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    You will have basic prior knowledge of the target language (TL).

    This module:

    • enables you to understand basic information and communicate effectively in the TL in everyday situations, at a simple level
    • provides opportunities across general topics for practising the TL using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a basic level
    • introduces fundamental elements of the TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, and continues to provide a solid foundation for progression in the TL
    • presents the background culture of the TL through various activities and text, audio, audio-visual and digital material.

    This module is at least equivalent to level A2 (basic user) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

  • Chinese Intermediate A

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1; Year 2, Term 1

    This stage 3 module is for students with some basic knowledge and experience of the target language (TL). Building on existing levels of proficiency at level A2 (Basic User) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages the module aims to:

    • enable students to understand basic information and to communicate effectively in the TL, in everyday situations at an elementary level
    • provide opportunities across a variety of general topics for practice of understanding and communication in the TL using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at an elementary level
    • consolidate and develop the range of key elements of TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, to allow progression in the TL
    • present the background culture and society of the TL through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media, eg text, audio, audio-visual, digital.

    Successful completion of the module is equivalent to level A2-B1 (Basic-Independent User) of the CEFR for Languages.

  • Chinese Intermediate B

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2; Year 2, Term 2

    This stage 4 intermediate module is for students who can already communicate with some independence in the target language. Building on existing levels of proficiency at level A2-B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages, the module aims to:

    • enable students to understand key information and to communicate effectively in the target language, sometimes spontaneously, in less routine situations, at a standard level 
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in the target language using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a standard level 
    • consolidate and develop the range of key elements of target language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, to allow continued progression in the target language
    • present the background culture and society of the target language through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media, (e.g. text, audio, audio-visual, digital).

    Successful completion of the module is equivalent to level B1 of the CEFR for Languages.

  • Communication in the Workplace (Intermediate)

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1; Year 2, Term 1

    On this module, you’ll develop the communication skills needed for academic, business, and professional settings.

    The module focuses on enhancing your reading and writing skills for essays, reports, assignments, and general business communication. You’ll also build your listening and speaking skills to help you engage in seminars, tutorials, and lectures on business topics, while preparing you for effective oral communication in professional environments.

  • Communication in the Workplace (Post-Intermediate)

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2; Year 2, Term 2

    On this module, you’ll develop the communication skills needed for academic, business, and professional settings.

    The module focuses on enhancing your reading and writing skills for essays, reports, assignments, and general business communication. You’ll also build your listening and speaking skills to help you engage in seminars, tutorials, and lectures on business topics, while preparing you for effective oral communication in professional environments.

  • French Advanced A

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    This module is for you if you have completed both intermediate A and B modules.

    The module aims to:

    • enable you to understand the main ideas within extended discourse and to communicate effectively in the target language, with increasing fluency, confidence and spontaneity, in a variety of contexts
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in the target language using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at an advanced level
    • introduce and develop the range of complex elements of language structures, syntax, and vocabulary to allow continued progression in the target language
    • facilitate the analysis of some aspects of the general social, political and/or cultural background of the language through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media, e.g. text; audio; audio-visual; digital.

    Successful completion of the module is equivalent to level B1-B2 (Independent User) of the CEFR for Languages. 

  • French Advanced B

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    This module is for you if you can communicate with some independence in the target language. Building on existing levels of proficiency at level B1-B1+ of the Common European Framework of Reference [CEFR] the course aims to help you:

    • learn how to understand the main ideas within extended discourse and communicate effectively in the target language, with increasing fluency, confidence and spontaneity, in different contexts
    • to practise your understanding and communication in the target language using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at an advanced level
    • consolidate and develop the range of complex language structures, syntax, and specialised vocabulary to allow further accuracy and control in use of the target language
    • analyse aspects of the general social, political and/or cultural background of the language through contextualised activities and materials, in media such as text, audio, audio-visual and digital.

    Successful completion of the course is equivalent to level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). 

  • French Beginners A

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    This module is for:

    • beginners with no previous knowledge
    • false beginners with prior experience of the language at an elementary level, including those who have up to grade C at GCSE

    This module:

    • enables you to understand basic information and communicate effectively in the TL, in everyday situations at an elementary level
    • provides opportunities across general topics for practising the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at an elementary level
    • introduces fundamental elements of the TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, and provides a solid foundation for progression in the TL
    • introduces the background culture of the TL through various activities and text, audio, audio-visual and digital material.

    This module is equivalent to level A1 (basic user) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

  • French Beginners B

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    You will have completed the ab-initio A module.

    This module:

    • enables you to understand basic information and communicate effectively in the TL in everyday situations, at a simple level
    • provides opportunities across general topics for practising the TL using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a basic level
    • introduces fundamental elements of the TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, and continues to provide a solid foundation for progression in the TL
    • presents the background culture of the TL through various activities and text, audio, audio-visual and digital material.

    This module is at least equivalent to level A2 (basic user) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

  • French For Professional Purposes 1A

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1; Year 2, Term 1

    This module is designed for advanced learners who have a good A-level pass, or equivalent.
    
    The module aims to:

    • enable students to understand the main ideas within extended discourse and to communicate effectively in the TL, with increasing fluency, confidence and spontaneity, in a variety of contexts
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, including common professional themes, for practice of understanding and communication in the TL using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at an advanced level
    • introduce and develop the range of complex elements of TL language structures, syntax, and vocabulary to allow continued progression in the TL
    • facilitate the analysis of some aspects of the general social, professional, political and/or cultural background of the language through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media (e.g. text, audio, audio-visual, digital).

    Your classes will consist of a variety of activities to develop your practical skill in all four communicative competencies (SLRW), and to encourage autonomous use of the TL. These will include presentations and discussion, text handling and writing activities such as summarising and reporting etc., based on themes, grammatical structures and language skills.

    Working individually and in groups, you will have opportunities to develop your knowledge and understanding of TL countries, society, and community through both authentic and specially prepared textual and audio-visual materials. Seminar activities are complemented by guided independent study, and will make use of Study Direct and other technologies.

    This module is at level B1-B2 (Independent User) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

  • French For Professional Purposes 1B

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2; Year 2, Term 2

    This module is designed for advanced learners who have completed French for Professional Purposes 1A.
    
    Building on existing levels of proficiency, the module aims to:

    • enable you to understand the main ideas within extended discourse and to communicate effectively in French with increasing fluency, confidence and spontaneity in a variety of contexts
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, including common professional themes, for practice of understanding and communication in French, using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at an advanced level
    • consolidate and develop the range of complex structures, syntax, and specialised vocabulary in French to allow further accuracy and control in use
    • facilitate the analysis of some aspects of the general social, professional, political and/or cultural background of the language through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media, eg text, audio, audio,visual, digital.

    This module is at level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

  • French for Professional Purposes 2A

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    You can study this module if you are an advanced learner and you have completed Advanced for Professional Purposes 1B. This module is at level B2 (Independent User) of the CEFR for Languages.

    Building on your existing proficiency level, you will:

    • learn how to understand the main ideas within extended discourse and communicate effectively in the target language, with fluency, confidence and spontaneity, in different contexts
    • provide opportunities, across a range of topics, to practise understanding and communication in the target language using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a proficient level
    • consolidate and develop the range of complex language structures, syntax, and specialised vocabulary to allow consistent accuracy and control in use of the target language
    • analyse important aspects of the general social and cultural background of the language in a professional context, through contextualised activities and materials in media such as text, audio, audio-visual and digital.

    Your classes includes activities to develop your practical skill in all four communicative competencies (SLRW), and to encourage autonomous use of the target language.

    These will include subject-specific presentations and discussion, text handling and analysis, writing activities such as letter-writing, summarising and reporting.

    You'll work in groups and on your own, and develop your knowledge and understanding of target language countries, society, and community through authentic and specially prepared textual and audio-visual materials.

    You'll also focus on your employment profile and/or workplace simulation activities.

  • French for Professional Purposes 2B

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    This module is for students who can already communicate with some independence in the target language at level B2/+ of the Common European Framework of Reference [CEFR]. Building on existing levels of proficiency the module aims to:
    
    - enable students to understand the main ideas and detail within extended discourse and to communicate effectively in the target langauge, with fluency, confidence and spontaneity, in a variety of contexts
    - provide opportunities, across a range of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in the target language using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a proficient level
    - consolidate and develop the range of complex target language structures, syntax, and specialised vocabulary to allow consistent accuracy and control in use of the target langauge
    - analyse aspects of the general social and cultural background of the language in a professional context, through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media, e.g. text; audio; audio-visual; digital.
    
    This module is at level B2-C1 of the CEFR for Languages.

  • French Intermediate A

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    This module is designed for:

    • lower intermediate learners who have a recent grade A/B at GCSE, or a D/E pass at AS level, or equivalent
    • intermediate learners who have a good AS grade, or perhaps a low D/E pass at A level, or equivalent.

    The module aims to:

    • enable you to understand key information and to communicate effectively in the TL, sometimes spontaneously, in less routine situations, at a standard level
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in the TL using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a standard level
    • consolidate and develop the range of key elements of TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, to allow progression in the TL
    • present the background culture and society of the TL through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media, e.g. text; audio; audio-visual; digital.

    Successful completion of the module is equivalent to level A2-B1 (Basic-Independent User) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

  • French Intermediate A Year 1

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    This module is designed for:

    • lower intermediate learners who have a recent grade A/B at GCSE, or a D/E pass at AS level, or equivalent.
    • intermediate learners who have a good AS grade, or perhaps a low D/E pass at A level, or equivalent.

    The course aims to:

    • enable students to understand key information and to communicate effectively in the TL, sometimes spontaneously, in less routine situations, at a standard level
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in the TL using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a standard level
    • consolidate and develop the range of key elements of TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, to allow progression in the TL
    • present the background culture and society of the TL through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media, e.g. text; audio; audio-visual; digital.

    Successful completion of the course is equivalent to level A2-B1 (Basic-Independent User) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

  • French Intermediate B

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    This module is designed for intermediate learners who have completed an intermediate A module.

    The module aims to:

    • enable students to understand key information and to communicate effectively in the target language, sometimes spontaneously, in less routine situations, at a standard level 
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in the target language using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a standard level 
    • consolidate and develop the range of key elements of TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, to allow continued progression in the target language
    • present the background culture and society of the target language through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media (e.g. text; audio, audio-visual, digital).

    Successful completion of the module is equivalent to level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

  • French Intermediate B Year 1

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    This stage 4 intermediate module is for students who can already communicate with some independence in the target language. Building on existing levels of proficiency at level A2+-B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference [CEFR] the module aims to:

    • enable you to understand key information and to communicate effectively in the target language, sometimes spontaneously, in less routine situations, at a standard level
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in the target language using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a standard level
    • consolidate and develop the range of key elements of target language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, to allow continued progression in the target language
    • present the background culture and society of the target language through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media, e.g. text; audio; audio-visual; digital.

    Successful completion of the module is equivalent to level B1 of the CEFR for Languages.

  • German Advanced A

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    This stage 5 advanced course is for you if you have already acquired the capacity to function with some autonomy in the target language.

    Building on existing levels of proficiency at level B1 (Independent User) of the Common European Framework of Reference [CEFR] the course aims to:

    • enable you to understand the main ideas within extended discourse and to communicate effectively in the target language, with increasing fluency, confidence and spontaneity, in a variety of contexts
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in the target language using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at an advanced level
    • introduce and develop the range of complex elements of language structures, syntax, and vocabulary to allow continued progression in the target language
    • facilitate the analysis of some aspects of the general social, political and/or cultural background of the language through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media, e.g. text; audio; audio-visual; digital.

    Successful completion of the course is equivalent to level B1-B2 (Independent User) of the CEFR for Languages.

  • German Advanced B

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    This module is for you if you can communicate with some independence in the target language.

    Building on existing levels of proficiency at level B1of the Common European Framework of Reference [CEFR] the course aims to:

    • enable you to understand the main ideas within extended discourse and to communicate effectively in the target language, with increasing fluency, confidence and spontaneity, in a variety of contexts
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in the target language using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at an advanced level
    • consolidate and develop the range of complex language structures, syntax, and specialised vocabulary to allow further accuracy and control in use of the target language
    • analyse aspects of the general social, political and/or cultural background of the language through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media, e.g. text; audio; audio-visual; digital.

    Successful completion of the course is equivalent to level B2 of the CEFR for Languages.

  • German Beginners A

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    This acts as an introduction if you have little or no prior knowledge of the target language (TL).

    This module:

    • enables you to understand basic information and communicate effectively in the TL, in everyday situations at an elementary level
    • provides opportunities across general topics for practising the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at an elementary level
    • introduces fundamental elements of the TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, and provides a solid foundation for progression in the TL
    • introduces the background culture of the TL through various activities and text, audio, audio-visual and digital material.

    This module is equivalent to level A1 (basic user) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

  • German Beginners B

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    You will have basic prior knowledge of the target language (TL).

    This module:

    • enables you to understand basic information and communicate effectively in the TL in everyday situations, at a simple level
    • provides opportunities across general topics for practising the TL using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a basic level
    • introduces fundamental elements of the TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, and continues to provide a solid foundation for progression in the TL
    • presents the background culture of the TL through various activities and text, audio, audio-visual and digital material.

    This module is at least equivalent to level A2 (basic user) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

  • German Intermediate A

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1; Year 2, Term 1

    This stage 3 module is for students with some basic knowledge and experience of the target language (TL). Building on existing levels of proficiency at level A2 (Basic User) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages, the module aims to:

    • enable you to understand key information and to communicate effectively in the TL, sometimes spontaneously, in less routine situations, at a standard level
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in the TL using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a standard level
    • consolidate and develop the range of key elements of TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, to allow progression in the TL
    • present the background culture and society of the TL through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media, (e.g. text, audio, audio-visual, digital).

    Successful completion of the module is equivalent to level A2-B1 (Basic-Independent User) of the CEFR for Languages.

  • German Intermediate B

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2; Year 2, Term 2

    This stage 4 intermediate module is for students who can communicate with some independence in the target language. Building on existing levels of proficiency at level A2-B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages, the module aims to:

    • enable you to understand key information and to communicate effectively in the target language, sometimes spontaneously, in less routine situations, at a standard level 
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in the target language using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a standard level
    • consolidate and develop the range of key elements of TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, to allow continued progression in the target language
    • present the background culture and society of the target language through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media (e.g. text, audio, audio-visual, digital).

    Successful completion of the module is equivalent to level B1 of the CEFR for Languages.

  • Inter-cultural Encounters

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    This module seeks to promote cultural awareness and inter-cultural comprehension. You will be concerned to define what is meant by "culture" and to analyse your own cultural backgrounds and attitudes. You will consider how and why cultural characteristics arise and whether generalisations (such as national or cultural stereotypes) are ever valid.

    In particular you will reflect upon the ways in which culture and language are linked, and on how cultural values and attitudes are encoded in language. You will sample various theoretical approaches to these issues by way of original lectures, prepared seminar questions, academic essays, and a range of audio-visual sources.

  • Italian Advanced A

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    This stage 5 advanced module is for students who have already acquired the capacity to function with some autonomy in the target language. You’ll build on existing levels of proficiency at level B1 (Independent User) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).

    The module aims to:

    • enable you to understand the main ideas within extended discourse and communicate effectively, with increasing fluency, confidence and spontaneity, in a variety of contexts
    • provide opportunities across a variety of topics for practice of understanding and communication, using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at an advanced level
    • introduce and develop the range of complex elements of language structures, syntax and vocabulary to allow continued progression
    • facilitate the analysis of some aspects of the general social, political and/or cultural background of the language through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media (such as text, audio, audio-visual and digital).

    This module is at B1-B1+ on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

  • Italian Advanced B

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    This module is for students who communicate with some independence in Italian. You’ll build on existing levels of proficiency at level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).

    The module aims to:

    • enable you to understand the main ideas within extended discourse and to communicate effectively, with increasing fluency, confidence and spontaneity, in a variety of contexts
    • provide opportunities for practice of understanding and communication, using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at an advanced level
    • consolidate and develop the range of complex language structures, syntax, and specialised vocabulary to allow further accuracy and control
    • analyse aspects of the general social, political and/or cultural background of the language through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media (such as text, audio, audio-visual and digital).

    This module is at B1+ on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

  • Italian Beginners A

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    This acts as an introduction if you have little or no prior knowledge of the target language (TL).

    This module:

    • enables you to understand basic information and communicate effectively in the TL, in everyday situations at an elementary level
    • provides opportunities across general topics for practising the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at an elementary level
    • introduces fundamental elements of the TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, and provides a solid foundation for progression in the TL
    • introduces the background culture of the TL through various activities and text, audio, audio-visual and digital material.

    This module is equivalent to level A1 (basic user) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

  • Italian Beginners B

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    You will have basic prior knowledge of the target language (TL).

    This module:

    • enables you to understand basic information and communicate effectively in the TL in everyday situations, at a simple level
    • provides opportunities across general topics for practising the TL using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a basic level
    • introduces fundamental elements of the TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, and continues to provide a solid foundation for progression in the TL
    • presents the background culture of the TL through various activities and text, audio, audio-visual and digital material.

    This module is at least equivalent to level A2 (basic user) of the Common European Framework of Reference for languages.

  • Italian Intermediate A

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1; Year 2, Term 1

    This stage 3 module is for students with some basic knowledge and experience of the target language (TL). Building on existing levels of proficiency at level A2 (Basic User) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages, the module aims to:

    • enable students to understand key information and to communicate effectively in the TL, sometimes spontaneously, in less routine situations, at a standard level
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in the TL using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a standard level
    • consolidate and develop the range of key elements of TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, to allow progression in the TL
    • present the background culture and society of the TL through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media (e.g. text, audio, audio-visual, digital).

    Successful completion of the module is equivalent to level A2-B1 (Basic-Independent User) of the CEFR for Languages.

  • Italian Intermediate B

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2; Year 2, Term 2

    This stage 4 intermediate module is for students who have already have the ability to communicate with some independence in the target language. Building on existing levels of proficiency at level A2-B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages, the module aims to:

    • enable you to understand key information and to communicate effectively in the target language, sometimes spontaneously, in less routine situations, at a standard level 
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in the target language using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a standard level 
    • consolidate and develop the range of key elements of target language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, to allow continued progression in the target language
    • present the background culture and society of the target language through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media (e.g. text; audio, audio-visual, digital).

    Successful completion of the module is equivalent to level B1 of the CEFR for Languages.

  • Japanese Advanced A

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    This stage 5 advanced module is for you if you have already acquired the capacity to function with some autonomy in the target language. You’ll build on existing levels of proficiency at level B1 (Independent User) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).

    The module aims to:

    • enable you to understand the main ideas within extended discourse and to communicate effectively, with increasing fluency, confidence and spontaneity, in a variety of contexts
    • provide opportunities across a variety of topics for practice of understanding and communication, using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at an advanced level
    • introduce and develop the range of complex elements of language structures, syntax, and vocabulary to allow continued progression
    • facilitate the analysis of some aspects of the general social, political and/or cultural background of the language through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media (such as text, audio, audio-visual and digital).

    This module is at B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

  • Japanese Advanced B

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    This module is for students who can communicate with some independence in the target language. Building on existing levels of proficiency at level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference [CEFR], you will:

    • understand the main ideas within extended conversation and communicate effectively in Japanese, with increasing fluency, confidence and spontaneity, in different contexts
    • practise your understanding and communication using your advanced listening, reading, speaking and writing skills in Japanese
    • consolidate and develop the range of complex Japanese language structures, syntax, and specialised vocabulary to allow further accuracy and control in use of Japanese
    • analyse aspects of the general social and cultural background of the language through activities and materials in a range of media

    Successful completion of the module is equivalent to level B2 of the CEFR for Languages.

  • Japanese Beginners A

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    This acts as an introduction if you have little or no prior knowledge of the target language (TL).

    This module:

    • enables you to understand basic information and communicate effectively in the TL, in everyday situations at an elementary level
    • provides opportunities across general topics for practising the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at an elementary level
    • introduces fundamental elements of the TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, and provides a solid foundation for progression in the TL
    • introduces the background culture of the TL through various activities and text, audio, audio-visual and digital material.

    This module is equivalent to level A1 (basic user) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

  • Japanese Beginners B

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    You will have basic prior knowledge of the target language (TL).

    This module:

    • enables you to understand basic information and communicate effectively in the TL in everyday situations, at a simple level
    • provides opportunities across general topics for practising the TL using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a basic level
    • introduces fundamental elements of the TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, and continues to provide a solid foundation for progression in the TL
    • presents the background culture of the TL through various activities and text, audio, audio-visual and digital material.

    This module is at least equivalent to level A2 (basic user) of the Common European Framework of Reference for languages.

  • Japanese Intermediate A

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1; Year 2, Term 1

    This stage 3 module is for students with some basic knowledge and experience of the target language (TL). Building on existing levels of proficiency at level A2 (Basic User) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages, the module aims to:

    • enable you to understand key information and to communicate effectively in the TL, sometimes spontaneously, in less routine situations, at a standard level
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in the TL using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a standard level
    • consolidate and develop the range of key elements of TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, to allow progression in the TL
    • present the background culture and society of the TL through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media, eg text, audio, audio-visual, digital.

    Successful completion of the module is equivalent to level A2-B1 (Basic-Independent User) of the CEFR for Languages.

  • Japanese Intermediate B

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2; Year 2, Term 2

    This module is for students who can already communicate with some independence in the target language. Building on existing levels of proficiency at level A2-B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages, the module aims to:

    • enable you to understand key information and to communicate effectively in the target language, sometimes spontaneously, in less routine situations, at a standard level 
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in the target language using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a standard level 
    • consolidate and develop the range of key elements of target language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, to allow continued progression in the target language
    • present the background culture and society of the target language through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media, (e.g. text, audio, audio-visual, digital).

    Successful completion of the module is equivalent to level B1 of the CEFR for Languages.

  • Landscapes of Resistance and Social Justice

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1; Year 2, Term 1

    This module examines concepts and strategies of resistance and social justice. It embraces interdisciplinary perspectives and a global outlook.

    You’ll explore historical and cultural cases where ideas and practices have challenged:

    • ideologies and/or political powers
    • patriarchal society
    • racism
    • religious intolerance
    • abuse of human rights.

    In all these cases, resistance has often resulted in social, political and cultural revolution.

  • Language, Identity and Nation

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    Following a short introduction, the module falls into two parts. The first looks at how we discover the links between Language, Thought and Nation, and try to identify and analyse covert as well as overt associations between these. Who are the guardians and gatekeepers of our 'native' languages, and what are the pressures to have English in England, French in France but Castillian in Spain and Post-Florentine in Italy? Are some languages more equal than others, conferring more status to their users? And why do languages still change despite 'Academies'? The second part looks at instances of how expressions of the relationship between a nation and its language emerge as various literary and other genres (with particular reference to the novel), and how these feed back into the collective identity (with particular reference to representations in the cinema of various countries).

  • Spanish Advanced A

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    You can study this module if you havw completed both intermediate A and B modules.

    You will:

    • understand the main ideas within extended discourse and communicate effectively in Spanish, with increasing fluency, confidence and spontaneity, in different contexts
    • practise your understanding and communication using your advanced listening, reading, speaking and writing skills in Spanish
    • consolidate and develop the range of complex Spanish language structures, syntax, and specialised vocabulary to allow further accuracy and control in use of Spanish
    • analyse aspects of the general social and cultural background of the language through activities and materials in a range of media

    You'll develop your:

    • practical skills in all four communicative competencies and use Spanish independently
    • knowledge and understanding of Spanish-speaking countries, society, and community through texts and audio-visual materials.

    Successful completion of the module is equivalent to level B1-B2 (Independent User) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

  • Spanish Advanced B

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    This module is for students who can communicate with some independence in the target language. Building on existing levels of proficiency at level B1-B1+ of the Common European Framework of Reference [CEFR] the course, you will:

    • understand the main ideas within extended conversation and communicate effectively in Spanish, with increasing fluency, confidence and spontaneity, in different contexts
    • practise your understanding and communication using your advanced listening, reading, speaking and writing skills in Spanish
    • consolidate and develop the range of complex Spanish language structures, syntax, and specialised vocabulary to allow further accuracy and control in use of Spanish
    • analyse aspects of the general social and cultural background of the language through activities and materials in a range of media

    This module is at level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

     

  • Spanish Beginners A

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    This module is for:

    • beginners with no previous knowledge
    • false beginners with prior experience of the language at an elementary level, including those who have up to grade C at GCSE.

    This module:

    • enables you to understand basic information and communicate effectively in the TL, in everyday situations at an elementary level
    • provides opportunities across general topics for practising the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at an elementary level
    • introduces fundamental elements of the TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, and provides a solid foundation for progression in the TL
    • introduces the background culture of the TL through various activities and text, audio, audio-visual and digital material.

    This module is equivalent to level A1 (basic user) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

  • Spanish Beginners B

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    You will have completed the ab-initio A module.

    This module:

    • enables you to understand basic information and communicate effectively in the TL in everyday situations, at a simple level
    • provides opportunities across general topics for practising the TL using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a basic level
    • introduces fundamental elements of the TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, and continues to provide a solid foundation for progression in the TL
    • presents the background culture of the TL through various activities and text, audio, audio-visual and digital material.

    This module is at least equivalent to level A2 (basic user) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

  • Spanish for Professional Purposes 1A

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1; Year 2, Term 1

    This module is designed for advanced learners who have a good A-level pass, or equivalent.

    The module aims to:

    • enable you to understand the main ideas within extended discourse and to communicate effectively in the TL, with increasing fluency, confidence and spontaneity, in a variety of contexts
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, including common professional themes, for practice of understanding and communication in the TL using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at an advanced level
    • introduce and develop the range of complex elements of TL language structures, syntax, and vocabulary to allow continued progression in the TL
    • facilitate the analysis of some aspects of the general social, professional, political and/or cultural background of the language through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media (e.g. text, audio, audio-visual, digital).

    Your classes will consist of a variety of activities to develop your practical skill in all four communicative competencies (SLRW), and to encourage autonomous use of the TL. These will include presentations and discussion, text handling and writing activities such as summarising and reporting etc., based on themes, grammatical structures and language skills. Working individually and in groups, you will have opportunities to develop your knowledge and understanding of TL countries, society, and community through both authentic and specially prepared textual and audio-visual materials.
    Seminar activities are complemented by guided independent study, and will make use of Study Direct and other technologies.

    This module is at level B1-B2 (Independent User) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

  • Spanish for Professional Purposes 1B

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2; Year 2, Term 2

    This module is for students who can already communicate with some independence in the target language at level B1-B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference [CEFR].

    Building on existing levels of proficiency, the module aims to:

    • enable you to understand the main ideas within extended discourse and to communicate effectively in the target language, with increasing fluency, confidence and spontaneity, in a variety of contexts
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics such as common professional themes, for practice of understanding and communication in the target language. You will use the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing at an advanced level
    • consolidate and develop the range of complex target language structures, syntax, and specialised vocabulary to allow further accuracy and control in use of the target language
    • analyse some aspects of the general social, professional, political and/or cultural background of the language through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media (such as text, audio, audio-visual and digital).

    This module is at level B2 of the CEFR for Languages.

  • Spanish for Professional Purposes 2A

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    You can study this module if you are an advanced learner who has completed the Advanced for Professional Purposes 1B module.

    You will:

    • understand the main ideas within extended discourse and communicate effectively in Spanish, with fluency, confidence and spontaneity, in different contexts
    • practise your understanding and communication using your proficient listening, reading, speaking and writing skills in Spanish
    • consolidate and develop the range of complex Spanish language structures, syntax, and specialised vocabulary to allow consistent accuracy and control in use of Spanish
    • analyse aspects of the general social and cultural background of the language in a professional context, through activities and materials in a range of media

    You'll develop your:

    • practical skills in all four communicative competencies and use Spanish independently
    • knowledge and understanding of Spanish-speaking countries, society, and community through texts and audio-visual materials.

    This module is at level B2 (Independent User) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.
    

  • Spanish for Professional Purposes 2B

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    You can study this module if you're an advanced learner who has completed the Advanced for Professional Purposes 2A module.

    You will:

    • understand the main ideas within extended discourse and communicate effectively in Spanish, with fluency, confidence and spontaneity, in different contexts
    • practise your understanding and communication using your proficient listening, reading, speaking and writing skills in Spanish
    • consolidate and develop the range of complex Spanish language structures, syntax, and specialised vocabulary to allow consistent accuracy and control in use of Spanish
    • analyse aspects of the general social and cultural background of the language in a professional context, through activities and materials in a range of media.

    This module is at level B2-C1 (Independent User) of the CEFR for Languages.

  • Spanish Intermediate A

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    This module is designed for:

    • lower intermediate learners who have a recent grade A/B at GCSE, or a D/E pass at AS level, or equivalent
    • intermediate learners who have a good AS grade, or perhaps a low D/E pass at A level, or equivalent.

    The module aims to:

    • enable you to understand key information and to communicate effectively in the TL, sometimes spontaneously, in less routine situations, at a standard level
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in the TL using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a standard level
    • consolidate and develop the range of key elements of TL language structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation, to allow progression in the TL
    • present the background culture and society of the TL through a variety of contextualised activities and materials, in a range of media, eg text, audio, audio-visual, digital.

    Successful completion of the module is equivalent to level A2-B1 (Basic-Independent User) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

  • Spanish Intermediate A Year 1

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    This module is designed for:

    • lower-intermediate learners who have a recent grade A/B at GCSE, or a D/E pass at AS-Level, or equivalent
    • intermediate learners who have a good AS grade, or perhaps a low D/E pass at A-Level, or equivalent

    The module aims to:

    • enable you to understand key information and to communicate effectively in Spanish, sometimes spontaneously, in less routine situations at a standard level 
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in Spanish using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a standard level 
    • consolidate and develop the range of key elements of the structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation of Spanish, to allow progression
    • present the background culture and society of the Spanish-speaking world through a variety of contextualised activities and materials in a range of media (e.g. text, audio, audiovisual, digital).

    Successful completion of the module is equivalent to level A2-B1 (Basic-Independent User) of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

  • Spanish Intermediate B

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    This module is for students who can already communicate with some independence in Spanish.

    Building on existing levels of proficiency at level A2+-B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference [CEFR] the module aims to:

    • enable you to understand key information and to communicate effectively in Spanish, sometimes spontaneously, in less routine situations at a standard level 
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in Spanish using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a standard level 
    • consolidate and develop the range of key elements of the structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation of Spanish, to allow continued progression
    • present the background culture and society of the Spanish-speaking world through a variety of contextualised activities and materials in a range of media, eg text, audio, audiovisual, and digital.

    Successful completion of the module is equivalent to level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

  • Spanish Intermediate B Year 1

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    This module is for students who can already communicate with some independence in Spanish.

    Building on existing levels of proficiency at level A2+-B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference [CEFR] the module aims to:

    • enable you to understand key information and to communicate effectively in Spanish, sometimes spontaneously, in less routine situations at a standard level 
    • provide opportunities, across a variety of topics, for practice of understanding and communication in Spanish using the four language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, at a standard level
    • consolidate and develop the range of key elements of the structures, vocabulary, syntax and pronunciation of Spanish, to allow continued progression
    • present the background culture and society of the Spanish-speaking world through a variety of contextualised activities and materials in a range of media, eg text, audio, audiovisual, and digital.

    Successful completion of the module is equivalent to level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

  • TESOL 1A

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1; Year 2, Term 1

    This module will provide students with an introduction to the social, political, linguistic and pedagogic issues involved in the teaching of English to Speakers of Other Languages and the principles and practice of a range of methods and approaches.

  • TESOL 1B

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2; Year 2, Term 2

    This course will focus primarily on supervised lesson planning and teaching practice. A small number of plenary sessions will further address the evaluation and selection of teaching materials and the principles of lesson planning, as well as generally exploring issues arising out of the teaching practice classes. You will be invited to reflect on and evaluate your own classroom practice and that of your peers.

  • TESOL 2A

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    This module will build on and further develop knowledge and awareness of lexical, grammatical, functional and phonological issues in the teaching and learning of English, and will explore the formal and informal assessment of language knowledge and language skills. The module will also review and further explore principles and best practice in lesson and module planning and delivery in a variety of teaching contexts.

  • TESOL 2B

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    This module will introduce you to the social, political, linguistic and pedagogic issues involved in the teaching of English to Speakers of Other Languages, and the principles and practice of a range of methods and approaches. Topics covered will include:

    • the role of English and English teaching in the world
    • social and contextual dimensions of natural language use
    • introduction to the pedagogic grammar of English
    • introduction to basic concepts of semantics and lexis
    • introduction to illocutionary force and functions and notions of language
    • introduction to some basics of language teaching methodology.

     

• Law, Sociology, Criminology and Politics
  • 21st Century Sociology

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    A Sociology of 21st Century Britain will use Britain today as an empirical base for exploring wider sociological perspectives and the insights that social science can bring into key problems and debates about contemporary life.

    During the module you will explore the relationship between empirical research and theory using examples from recent sociological work, drawing from studies no older than 5 years, to look at a range of issues in 21st century Britain, including work and employment, family, sport, intimacy, life online, nationalism, death and wealth.

    The module is designed to demonstrate the capacity of sociology to explore the social world in interesting, challenging and critical ways, but will be relevant to anyone who wishes to learn more about contemporary Britain, from the perspective of insider or outsider.

  • Contemporary Issues in Law

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    This module provides you with the opportunity to examine contemporary issues in law. The module is designed to engage you with challenging legal issues currently experiencing transformation and in need of reform.

    Specifically, the module will cover issues drawn from four key areas:

    • media law and practice (for example privacy and internet regulation)
    • medical law and ethics (for example euthanasia and abortion)
    • protection of the environment (for example climate change)
    • human rights (for example marginalised rights).

    The module develops your analytical skills in exploring the way in which law responds to current controversies. It enhances the development of research and writing skills by the production of a research plan and a substantive piece of writing on an area of law in need of reform.

  • Crime and Criminal Justice

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    This module encompasses an introduction to criminal law and notions of criminal responsibility. It examines two specialised substantive areas of criminal law covering, for example:

    • homicide
    • non-fatal offences against the person
    • sexual offences
    • hate crime.

    It will then turn to examine aspects of international criminal law including its institutional framework and an in-depth analysis of one of the core international crimes, such as:

    • genocide
    • crimes against humanity
    • war crimes.

    Some aspects of criminal law theory such as theories of punishment, why conduct should be criminalised, and issues of procedure and evidence that are relevant to the substantive law are covered.

  • Gender Equality

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    On this module, you'll understand the relationship between law and gender.

    You'll explore different areas where law interacts with, and regulates, gender relations. It will also provide a basic introduction to feminist legal theory. Areas of study will include issues such as:

    • reproductive rights (abortion, surrogacy, new reproductive technologies)
    • sexual violence
    • body image and pornography
    • prostitution
    • parity democracy
    • maternity rights.
  • Gendering the Life Course

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    Students taking this elective will learn to think critically about inequalities in our societies as they emerge across the life course, especially those relating to gender.

    You'll learn about key topics in the life course including:

    • birth and the ascription of gender identity
    • childhood and education; sexual reproduction
    • parenting and families
    • paid and unpaid work
    • illness and health
    • old age

    You'll build on your own experiences and observations to develop new perspectives and insights on these key issues in contemporary society.

    Throughout the module, we will explore key theoretical frameworks as well as a series of concrete cases and problems in which researchers apply such theories to gender issues in social policy, health, education and psychology.

    By the end of the module you should have gained an understanding of gender and the concept of inequality and be able to provide critical accounts of the links between gendered social relations, cultural settings and individual behaviour and experiences.

     

     

  • Introduction to the European Union

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    On this module, you’ll gain a broad interdisciplinary understanding of the European Union (EU). You’ll explore key questions, including:

    • what the EU is and how it came to be what it is today
    • how the EU works and what it does
    • what people think of the EU and why
    • how its membership has grown through successive enlargements
    • why the EU is said to be in a state of crisis
    • how the EU might evolve in the future.

    While the module provides a general overview of these topics, it offers a strong foundation for you to independently explore specific questions in greater detail.

  • Law, Justice and Inequality

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    On this module, you’ll focus on justice, equality and rights.

    You’ll study key theories and apply them to case studies, with a particular focus on the development of non-discrimination and equality law in English law. The module encourages you to examine contemporary issues through these perspectives.

  • Making of Modern Europe Year 2 Elective

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    The module aims to give you an understanding of the historical evolution of Europe as a region, as it has evolved from the middle ages until the present day. In particular we will trace the relationship between, on the one hand; ideas and ideals of European cooperation, integration and unity, and on the other; the realities of European economic, political and social development and conflict.

    We will try to explain the different dimensions of the idea of Europe in their historical context, exploring both the political struggles and the philosophical arguments which have characterised Europe over its history.

  • Police and Policing (Elective)

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    Examine policing in contemporary British society through looking at:

    • how policing has evolved since the start of the Metropolitan Police in 1829
    • modern-day policing through the analysis of relevant theories, practices and policy considerations.

    We focus on different types of approaches, contexts and situations, such as those relating to counter-terrorism, community, political protest, gender and hate crime.

    The police are often thought of as a monolithic institution. We will explore this by looking at how different policing practices shape media and public perceptions, and how they affect political response.

  • Political and Social Change in Contemporary Europe

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    This module analyses the broad social changes which have occurred in Western Europe since 1945, and in postcommunist European countries since the collapse of communism. It does this by using the social scientist's notion of 'cleavages', to explore divisions in society derived from factors such as religion, class, gender and ethnicity, and their impact on political behaviour. It also looks at the role played by nationalism, populism, regionalism and postmaterialism in driving social change and political affiliation. We also consider recent demographic trends such as declining birth rates and ageing populations, and the impact of these trends on social and political behaviour.

    While the module has a theoretical underpinning in social science, it is taught in a way which is accessible to students from any discipline. It is particularly enriched by the participation of students from a wide range of nationalities and cultures.

  • Punishment and Penology

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    This module will examine both the theory and practice of punishment, and will encourage you to take a critical approach to analysing these. The focus will mainly be on England and Wales, but comparison will be drawn with other countries, such as those in Europe, North America and Australasia, where relevant.

    After exploring a range of theoretical approaches in relation to the justifications for and purposes of punishment, you will consider a range of empirical examples. The latter will be largely contemporary, but historical examples will also be used.

    Topics will include:

    • justifications for punishment
    • Durkhemian, Marxist and Foucauldian perspectives on punishment
    • Garland's (2001) culture of control and the new penology (Feeley and Simon, 1992)
    • contemporary imprisonment
    • women in prison
    • children and young people in custody
    • immigration detention centres
    • alternatives to imprisonment
    • radical critiques, such as abolitionism and feminist jurisprudence.
  • The Far Right and the Politics of Immigration

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    This module explores the far right and the increasingly contested politics of immigration in liberal democracies. The module begins by looking at the rise of the far right political parties in contemporary Europe and their relationship to public opinion, mainstream parties and immigration policies. It then examines a number of cases including countries in which the far right has been more and less successful. You will gain an understanding of the causes and consequences of the rise of far right parties and an understanding of their impact on immigration politics and policies.

  • The Transformation of Contemporary Europe

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    This module examines the major economic and geopolitical developments that have transformed the European continent since the end of the Second World War.

    It begins by looking at how the Cold War divided Europe into Eastern and Western blocs, which developed very different political and economic systems underpinned by capitalism and communism.

    It then assesses how the Cold War continued to influence politics and economics in Europe, East and West, until the collapse of Soviet communism in 1989-91. This triggered major changes in the post-war order in Europe, leading to the European Union's enlargement to many of the former communist countries.

    The last part of the module examines the economic transition and political democratisation of these counties, assessing the extent to which the two models have now converged, and it concludes by evaluating issues of security in Europe in the post-Cold War era.

  • Thinking Like a Criminologist

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    This modules aims to introduce students to the key skills involved in thinking like a criminologist. It places a joint emphasis on gaining both a theoretical and practical understanding of criminology as a discipline.

    You will develop skills in interpreting crime statistics, critically assessing definitions of crime and engaging with media debates about crime and justice. These will be informed by introductory criminological theory to provide a foundation, including positivism and classicism, Durkheim and the Chicago School.

    Key topics will include:

    • What is crime?
    • Who is a criminal?
    • How can we use crime statistics?
    • The history of crime
    • Media representations of crime
    • The use of official reports and policy documents.
  • Understanding the Criminal Justice System

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    Gain an introduction to the criminal justice system by focusing on key debates around social control and the historic development of institutions.

    You'll study the development of key components of the justice system, including:

    • prisons
    • the police
    • probation
    • the courts and community justice.

    You'll also examine contemporary debates, including:

    • race and crime
    • gender
    • power and punishment
    • issues of overpolicing and criminalisation
    • youth justice and crime prevention.

    You’ll also study the British justice system in an international context for comparison.

• Sciences
  • Biological Psychology

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    This module introduces students to Biological Psychology, the scientific study of the brain and how it shapes behaviour. The lectures will explore the basic structure and function of the brain and its cells, and allow students to become familiar with the methodological approaches used in this field of study. A variety of behaviours will be discussed from a biological perspective, such as Motivation, Reproductive Behaviour, Sleep and Psychological Disorders. The material will be based on the latest research evidence.

    BSc Psychology students are not permitted to take this module. Visiting and Exchange students are permitted to take this module but cannot take it in combination with Psychobiology or Brain and Behaviour.

  • From Quarks to the Cosmos

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2; Year 2, Term 2

    This elective provides an overview of state-of-the-art research in fundamental physics for non-physicists, covering:

    • physics of the quantum world
    • particle physics and the search for the fundamental constituents of matter
    • cosmology and the large-scale structure of our world
    • the quest for the fundamental forces of nature.

    The elective is non-mathematical. It's suitable for non-scientists as well as scientists from other disciplines.

  • Introduction to Cognitive Science: Minds, Machines and Consciousness

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1

    You will examine what it means to be an intelligent being and explore how we view ourselves.

    You will look at a number of physicalist theories, including the view that cognition is computation.

    In doing so, you will examine some of the basic issues underlying cognitive science as an interdisciplinary study of the mind, taking in topics from psychology, neuroscience, linguistics, computing, artificial intelligence, robotics, evolutionary theory, biology and philosophy.

     

     

     

  • Our Place in the Universe(s)

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1; Year 2, Term 1

    Astronomy, the study of space and its contents beyond the earth, is both the oldest science, and one in which new discoveries are being made on a daily basis. It is used to explain such familiar phenomena as the tides, eclipses and meteor showers, as well as much more exotic objects such as black holes and exoplanets. The observable universe also provides a laboratory for testing physical theories at extreme energies that are unachievable on earth.
    
    This elective will provide non-science students with a broad, non-mathematical understanding of astronomy from our solar system, via stars and galaxies, to the universe as a whole, all to appreciate our place in the universe(s).

  • Philosophical Foundations of Cognitive Science

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 1

    In this module, you examine various philosophical foundational issues in cognitive science by focusing on the nature and role of computation and representation in cognitive scientific explanations.

    In particular, you will answer the question: can our everyday way of understanding the mind, in terms of beliefs, desires and intentions, serve as a foundation for a scientific understanding of mind? You then analyse answers that have been given to this question.

  • Principles of Cognitive Science

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2

    How do our minds work?

    In this module, you answer this question from the perspective of classical cognitive science, which treats the mind as a processor of information.

    Over the last 50 years, cognitive scientists have gained deep insights into how we think and what makes us intelligent.

    We will investigate how the mind receives, transforms, stores, retrieves and transmits information in order to understand how we comprehend the world, reason, solve problems, remember, develop skills and learn.

    In addition to studying the variety, power and limitations of our cognitive capabilities, you analyse and explain the nature of exceptional cognitive abilities, such as creativity and expertise, but we will also see that even seemingly simple everyday tasks involves a surprising richness and complexity of cognition.

    A key part of the module will be a case study on a task of your own choosing, which you investigate using the core concepts and models presented in the seminars.

  • Psychology of Child Development

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 1; Year 2, Term 1

    This module introduces you to Developmental Psychology: the scientific study of how children develop. Over the course of the module we will evaluate theories and empirical evidence across a wide range of core areas within Developmental Psychology such as language, attachment, emotion, gender, adolescence and cognitive development. We will cover both classic studies and contemporary research in these areas.

    BSc Psychology students are not permitted to take this module. Visiting and Exchange students are permitted to take this module but cannot take it in combination with Psychology of Childhood and Adolescence or Developmental Psychology.

  • Psychology of Cognitive Processes

    15 credits
    Year 2, Term 2

    This module introduces students to Cognitive Psychology, the scientific study of how the mind works. The lectures will allow students to become familiar with the field of Cognitive Psychology and its research approaches, and to appreciate its relevance to everyday functioning. A variety of relevant topics will be discussed, such as Perception, Attention, Memory, Language and Decision-Making, both in terms of the prevalent theoretical models, as well as empirical evidence.

    BSc Psychology students are not permitted to take this module. Visiting and Exchange students are permitted to take this module but cannot take it in combination with Cognition and Clinical Contexts or Cognitive Psychology

  • Social Psychology and Individual Differences

    15 credits
    Year 1, Term 2; Year 2, Term 2

    This module introduces you to Social Psychology and the scientific study of individuals and groups. We will explore the key approaches and methodologies in Social Psychology, evaluating different perspectives on studying individual differences. The module may draw from areas such as motivation, emotion, health and well-being, personality, and intergroup behaviour.

    BSc Psychology students are not permitted to take this module. Visiting and Exchange students are permitted to take this module but cannot take it in combination with Individuals and Groups or with Social Psychology.

We’re planning to run these electives in the academic year 2024/25. The electives shown give an indication of the breadth of study possible at Sussex. They are updated annually and may vary due to student demand or feedback, changes to staff expertise or updates to our curriculum. The electives available will be confirmed at the start of each academic year. Eligibility for electives depends on your course and may vary from time to time. If you’re eligible, you’ll be asked whether you’d like to choose an elective from the selection available for that academic year once you’ve registered, subject to timetabling constraints.

Pathways

A pathway is a combination of electives from a single subject area that is distinct from your main subject. Pathways are open to students on most single-honours degrees.

There are two ways you can study a pathway:

• You can take a pathway across the first two years of your course alongside your main subject. Your pathway will be recorded on your degree certificate. For example, if you take Spanish for two years, your degree certificate will list your main subject ‘with proficiency in Spanish’.
• Some of our pathways are available for three years, forming the minor part of a major/minor degree. If, for example, you take Spanish for three years alongside your main subject, your degree certificate will list your main subject ‘with Spanish CEFR C1’. (Note that your actual CEFR level will vary based on your starting language level.)

I believe that learning one of the most spoken languages in the world can be of great benefit for both personal and professional development.”Cathy Wiesan
Business and Management Studies BSc
Mandarin Chinese Pathway

Discover pathways

• Business, Finance and Economics
  • Business and Management Pathway

    Learn to break down problems and apply practical solutions. Understand how the business world works, including the roles of key institutions, the range of products and instruments, and the risks faced by companies and individuals.

    You develop transferable skills in data interpretation, decision-making, and critical thinking. This pathway prepares you for a variety of careers in the business sector, including banking, marketing research, public relations and sales.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • International Business Environment
    • Introduction to Accounting (Elective)
    • Introduction to Business and Management (Elective)
    • Operations Management (Elective)
  • Economics Pathway

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Global Economic History
    • Introduction to Economics (Elective)
    • Microeconomics 1 (Elective)
    • Microeconomics 2 (Elective)
  • Finance Pathway

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Corporate and International Finance (Elective)
    • Financial Institutions and Markets (Elective)
    • Principles of Finance (Elective)
    • Theory of Investments (Elective)
  • International Business Pathway

    Gain skills and strategies you can use in international business environments. Learn about developments that pose opportunities and challenges for overseas business. Understand the cultural differences that act as barriers to communication and negotiation.

    Our graduates start their careers equipped with knowledge about the global business context. They can make informed decisions while working as international managers or entrepreneurs.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • International Business Environment
    • International Business Strategy (Elective)
    • International Human Resource Management (Elective)
    • International Marketing (Elective)
• Education and Social Work
  • International Education and Development Pathway

    Understand the issues faced in helping all children to access, stay in and learn in school. This pathway is an excellent introduction to the major institutions that direct aid and influence policy and practice. See how education can shape individuals, families and communities. 

    This pathway is for you if you wish to work in teaching, educational environments, charities, international NGOs, or overseas or politics and policy-making around education and development.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Access, Equity and Gender
    • Education for Development: Aid, Policy and the Global Agenda
    • Education, Peacebuilding and Conflict
    • Power in the classroom: global perspectives on curriculum, pedagogy and assessment
  • Wellbeing Pathway

    Wellbeing is a contemporary area of study that draws on a wide set of perspectives. It has become increasingly important in social policy, health work, and economic practices, as well as to employers and organisations. This pathway explores how wellbeing might be understood and experienced, and the ways it affects individuals and societies.

    We help you explore wellbeing and understand it from theoretical, cultural and social perspectives. You’ll look at key areas of practice for wellbeing that span different disciplines. And you’ll think critically about the nature of wellbeing and its position in the social world.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Exploring Death and Dying; Cultural, Theoretical and Practice Perspectives
    • Mental Health and Madness: exploring socio-cultural approaches
    • Migrant and Refugee Well-Being: Theory and Practice
    • Spirituality, Wellbeing, and Health: understanding practices and connections.
• Global Studies
  • Anthropology Pathway

    Boost your career prospects by understanding a core social science. You analyse everyday culture and social practices, norms and values. By critically questioning contemporary issues you will explore processes of social transformation.

    This pathway enhances your critical thinking and analytic skills. These are useful in a range of careers including NGOs, charities, policy-making, the media or postgraduate study in anthropology.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Culture and Representation (Elective pathway)
    • Global Cultures, Local Lives
    • People, Culture and the Global Economy
    • Religion and Ritual (Pathway elective)
  • Human Rights Pathway

    Interested in how and why human rights are applied in practice? This pathway explores the role of the state, law, and morality to understand how human rights work. You examine individual rights, the right to protest, and the relationship between human rights and business.

    Studying an interdisciplinary pathway will boost your employability because your knowledge can be applied in a variety of careers, such as law, social care, business, government and the charitable sector. It's also an excellent basis for postgraduate study.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Health, Poverty and Inequality (Pathway elective)
    • Introduction to Human Rights
    • Law, Justice and Inequality
    • Migrant and Refugee Well-Being: Theory and Practice
  • International Relations Pathway

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Business in World Politics
    • Foundations of International Relations (pathway elective)
    • Global Issues
    • The Liberal World Order - in Crisis
• Languages and English Language Teaching

  Some of our Languages pathways are based on proficiency levels set out in the Common European Framework of Reference to Languages (CEFR).
  .
  Find out more about Modern language electives and pathways.

  • Advanced Arabic Pathway

    Learn another language as you study and boost your career prospects. Enrich your understanding of your first language and develop your confidence, communication skills and cultural awareness. 

    Study is in small seminar groups taught by experienced language speakers. You practise spoken and written usage and understanding of your chosen language.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Arabic Advanced A
    • Arabic Advanced B
    • Arabic in Context A
    • Arabic in Context B
    • Arabic Intermediate A
    • Arabic Intermediate B
  • Advanced French Pathway

    Learn another language as you study and boost your career prospects. Enrich your understanding of your first language and develop your confidence, communication skills and cultural awareness. 

    Study is in small seminar groups taught by experienced language speakers. You practise spoken and written usage and understanding of your chosen language.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • French Advanced A
    • French Advanced A (B)
    • French Advanced B
    • French Advanced B (B)
    • French in Context A
    • French in Context B
    • French Intermediate A
    • French Intermediate A Year 1
    • French Intermediate B
    • French Intermediate B Year 1
  • Advanced German Pathway

    Learn another language as you study and boost your career prospects. Enrich your understanding of your first language and develop your confidence, communication skills and cultural awareness. 

    Study is in small seminar groups taught by experienced language speakers. You practise spoken and written usage and understanding of your chosen language.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • German Advanced A
    • German Advanced B
    • German in Context A
    • German in Context B
    • German Intermediate A
    • German Intermediate B
  • Advanced Italian Pathway

    Learn another language as you study and boost your career prospects. Enrich your understanding of your first language and develop your confidence, communication skills and cultural awareness. 

    Study is in small seminar groups taught by experienced language speakers. You practise spoken and written usage and understanding of your chosen language.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Italian Advanced A
    • Italian Advanced B
    • Italian in Context A
    • Italian in Context B
    • Italian Intermediate A
    • Italian Intermediate B
  • Advanced Japanese Pathway

    Learn another language as you study and boost your career prospects. Enrich your understanding of your first language and develop your confidence, communication skills and cultural awareness. 

    Study is in small seminar groups taught by experienced language speakers. You practise spoken and written usage and understanding of your chosen language.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Japanese Advanced A
    • Japanese Advanced B
    • Japanese in Context A
    • Japanese in Context B
    • Japanese Intermediate A
    • Japanese Intermediate B
  • Advanced Mandarin Chinese Pathway

    Learn another language as you study and boost your career prospects. Enrich your understanding of your first language and develop your confidence, communication skills and cultural awareness. 

    Study is in small seminar groups taught by experienced language speakers. You practise spoken and written usage and understanding of your chosen language.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Chinese Advanced A
    • Chinese Advanced B
    • Chinese in Context A
    • Chinese in Context B
    • Chinese Intermediate A
    • Chinese Intermediate B
  • Advanced Spanish Pathway

    Learn another language as you study and boost your career prospects. Enrich your understanding of your first language and develop your confidence, communication skills and cultural awareness. 

    Study is in small seminar groups taught by experienced language speakers. You practise spoken and written usage and understanding of your chosen language.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Spanish Advanced A
    • Spanish Advanced A (B)
    • Spanish Advanced B
    • Spanish Advanced B (B)
    • Spanish in Context A
    • Spanish in Context B
    • Spanish Intermediate A
    • Spanish Intermediate A Year 1
    • Spanish Intermediate B
    • Spanish Intermediate B Year 1
  • British Sign Language Pathway

    Learn another language as you study and boost your career prospects. Enrich your understanding of your first language and develop your confidence, communication skills and cultural awareness. 

    Study is in small seminar groups taught by experienced language speakers. You practise spoken and written usage and understanding of your chosen language.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • British Sign Language and Deaf Culture 1A
    • British Sign Language and Deaf Culture 1B
    • British Sign Language and Deaf Culture 2A
    • British Sign Language and Deaf Culture 2B
    • British Sign Language and Deaf Culture 3A
    • British Sign Language and Deaf Culture 3B
    • British Sign Language and Deaf Culture 4A
    • British Sign Language and Deaf Culture 4B
  • French for Professional Purposes Pathway

    Learn another language as you study and boost your career prospects. Enrich your understanding of your first language and develop your confidence, communication skills and cultural awareness. 

    Study is in small seminar groups taught by experienced language speakers. You practise spoken and written usage and understanding of your chosen language.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • French For Professional Purposes 1A
    • French For Professional Purposes 1B
    • French for Professional Purposes 2A
    • French for Professional Purposes 2B
    • French For Professional Purposes 3A
    • French For Professional Purposes 3B
  • Intermediate Arabic Pathway

    Learn another language as you study and boost your career prospects. Enrich your understanding of your first language and develop your confidence, communication skills and cultural awareness. 

    Study is in small seminar groups taught by experienced language speakers. You practise spoken and written usage and understanding of your chosen language.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Arabic Beginners A
    • Arabic Beginners B
    • Arabic Intermediate A
    • Arabic Intermediate B
  • Intermediate French Pathway

    Learn another language as you study and boost your career prospects. Enrich your understanding of your first language and develop your confidence, communication skills and cultural awareness. 

    Study is in small seminar groups taught by experienced language speakers. You practise spoken and written usage and understanding of your chosen language.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • French Beginners A
    • French Beginners B
    • French Intermediate A
    • French Intermediate A Year 1
    • French Intermediate B
    • French Intermediate B Year 1
  • Intermediate German Pathway

    Learn another language as you study and boost your career prospects. Enrich your understanding of your first language and develop your confidence, communication skills and cultural awareness. 

    Study is in small seminar groups taught by experienced language speakers. You practise spoken and written usage and understanding of your chosen language.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • German Beginners A
    • German Beginners B
    • German Intermediate A
    • German Intermediate B
  • Intermediate Italian Pathway

    Learn another language as you study and boost your career prospects. Enrich your understanding of your first language and develop your confidence, communication skills and cultural awareness. 

    Study is in small seminar groups taught by experienced language speakers. You practise spoken and written usage and understanding of your chosen language.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Italian Beginners A
    • Italian Beginners B
    • Italian Intermediate A
    • Italian Intermediate B
  • Intermediate Japanese Pathway

    Learn another language as you study and boost your career prospects. Enrich your understanding of your first language and develop your confidence, communication skills and cultural awareness. 

    Study is in small seminar groups taught by experienced language speakers. You practise spoken and written usage and understanding of your chosen language.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Japanese Beginners A
    • Japanese Beginners B
    • Japanese Intermediate A
    • Japanese Intermediate B
  • Intermediate Mandarin Chinese Pathway

    Learn another language as you study and boost your career prospects. Enrich your understanding of your first language and develop your confidence, communication skills and cultural awareness. 

    Study is in small seminar groups taught by experienced language speakers. You practise spoken and written usage and understanding of your chosen language.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Chinese Beginners A
    • Chinese Beginners B
    • Chinese Intermediate A
    • Chinese Intermediate B
  • Intermediate Spanish Pathway

    Learn another language as you study and boost your career prospects. Enrich your understanding of your first language and develop your confidence, communication skills and cultural awareness. 

    Study is in small seminar groups taught by experienced language speakers. You practise spoken and written usage and understanding of your chosen language.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Spanish Beginners A
    • Spanish Beginners B
    • Spanish Intermediate A
    • Spanish Intermediate A Year 1
    • Spanish Intermediate B
    • Spanish Intermediate B Year 1
  • Spanish for Professional Purposes Pathway

    Learn another language as you study and boost your career prospects. Enrich your understanding of your first language and develop your confidence, communication skills and cultural awareness. 

    Study is in small seminar groups taught by experienced language speakers. You practise spoken and written usage and understanding of your chosen language.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Spanish for Professional Purposes 1A
    • Spanish for Professional Purposes 1B
    • Spanish for Professional Purposes 2A
    • Spanish for Professional Purposes 2B
    • Spanish for Professional Purposes 3A
    • Spanish for Professional Purposes 3B
  • TESOL Pathway

    If you successfully completing all modules in this pathway, you may be eligible for a professional qualification (the Trinity College London Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) in addition to the formal designation "with TESOL" on your degree certificate. This qualification will significantly enhance your employability and future opportunities as a graduate. To get the  professional qualification, you’ll pay a fee for external accreditation.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Introduction to TESOL - Theory and Methodology 1
    • TESOL Teaching Practice 1
    • TESOL Teaching Practice 2
    • TESOL Theory and Methodology 2
• Law, Sociology, Criminology and Politics
  • Criminology Pathway

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Police and Policing (Elective)
    • Punishment and Penology
    • Thinking Like a Criminologist
    • Understanding the Criminal Justice System
  • Gender Studies Pathway

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Access, Equity and Gender
    • Gender and Development: Theory, Concepts and Issues
    • Gender Equality
    • Gendering the Life Course
  • Legal Studies Pathway

    Want to explore big questions about how we order society and the role of law? Learn about the English legal system, aspects of international law, and the relationship between law, morality and politics. It's an enriching experience whether you wish to become a lawyer or not.

    You'll learn to analyse cases, present confidently and develop your ability to construct arguments. These skills are attractive to employers and knowledge of how law works is very useful in business, public relations, human resources, broadcast media, development and politics.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Contemporary Issues in Law
    • Crime and Criminal Justice
    • Law, Justice and Inequality
    • Understanding Law
  • Politics Pathway

    Interested in issues of power, representation and change? This pathway tackles these core political themes. Learn about the historical context of contemporary issues and study the actors and institutions that shape politics, including (non-)citizens, parties, the state and business. 

    You gain conceptual and factual knowledge of politics and policy as well as practical skills in summarising, presenting and debating. These capabilities are useful in active politics, the Civil Service, non-governmental organisations and the media.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • British Political History
    • Introduction to the European Union
    • Political and Social Change in Contemporary Europe
    • The Far Right and the Politics of Immigration
• Sciences
  • Cognitive Science Pathway

    Meet the challenge of understanding the mind in an interdisciplinary way. Explore different approaches to cognitive science, and integrate multiple perspectives. This pathway draws on psychology, neuroscience, philosophy, linguistics, computing and AI.

    You examine current and historical contexts, recent trends in cognitive science, and the philosophy of mind. This is a conceptually demanding but rewarding subject; by choosing this pathway you'll learn to reason, argue and grasp difficult ideas.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Introduction to Cognitive Science: Minds, Machines and Consciousness
    • Language, Mind and Brain
    • Philosophical Foundations of Cognitive Science
    • Principles of Cognitive Science
  • Psychology Pathway

    Psychology illuminates human cognition, emotion, and relationships. Study a variety of theoretical, methodological and analytical frameworks and understand how psychology is applied to diverse issues, from mental health to forensic investigation.

    You'll also gain skills that all employers value, such as effective communication, critical thinking and analysis. This pathway is suited to further study or a career in psychology, media, advertising, market research, human resources, and business and management.

    This pathway includes the following modules:

    • Biological Psychology
    • Psychology of Child Development
    • Psychology of Cognitive Processes
    • Social Psychology and Individual Differences

We’re planning to run these pathways in the academic year 2024/25. The pathways shown give an indication of the breadth of study possible at Sussex. They are updated annually and may vary due to student demand or feedback, changes to staff expertise or updates to our curriculum. The pathways available will be confirmed at the start of each academic year. Eligibility for pathways depends on your course and may vary from time to time. If you’re eligible, you’ll be asked whether you’d like to choose a pathway from the selection available for that academic year once you’ve registered, subject to timetabling constraints.

How do I apply for an elective or pathway?

As a student on most of our single-honours courses, you start choosing your electives and/or pathway just before you start your degree at Sussex.

For more information, contact us by email at aqpcurriculum@sussex.ac.uk.

You might also be interested in:

• study abroad
• placements and internships
• undergraduate courses