Social Sciences

International Foundation Year in Social Sciences

Prepare for your first year of a degree in social sciences

Is this programme for me?

This programme is for students with the ambition to study at a high-ranking UK university and those who want the skills to have a successful academic journey and career in social sciences. On this Social Sciences route, you’ll:

  • develop strong academic English skills to succeed in university-level study and communication
  • develop project, research, and problem-solving skills by tackling real-world sustainability challenges individually and in teams
  • gain a solid understanding of human behaviour through psychology, including key theories, research methods, and real-world applications
  • explore core social science topics such as globalisation, media, crime, and society while developing critical thinking and communication skills
  • strengthen teamwork, academic writing, and analytical abilities to prepare for undergraduate study and future careers

What will you study?

Over the two-semester programme, you’ll study a number of modules that relate to your chosen progression degree. The modules have been designed by expert academics at the International Study Centre with the University of Bath, to ensure you have the academic foundation and skills needed to succeed upon progression to the University.

Modules

The aim of this module is to train students in the language competency and practical academic skills they’ll need for undergraduate University courses. This includes developing students' accuracy and range of written and spoken English while teaching academic conventions and processes for writing, effective reading strategies, participation in research-based discussions and listening to and recording information from lectures. The AES course also aims to ensure that students can achieve a CEFR B2+ level in reading, listening, writing and speaking.

The Statistics with Project Skills module aims to enhance students’ understanding of statistics and its application to address complex sustainability challenges (wicked problems) within the fields of Science, Engineering and Business, aligning with the United Nation's Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) goals. By integrating sustainability, students will learn to apply statistical expertise in solving real-world problems.

This module is divided into two phases. In the first phase, students will utilise statistical methods to solve intricate (wicked) problems specific to their respective areas within Science, Engineering and Business. This will aid in the development of their disciplinary expertise and foster an appreciation for diverse perspectives. In the second phase, students will engage in an investigative project, collaborating, if possible, within multidisciplinary teams to explore and resolve sustainability challenges. This phase will enable them to apply statistical techniques to real-world scenarios and further enhance their analytical, problem-solving, and investigative skills.

This module introduces students to the scientific study of mind and behaviour, exploring key theories, approaches, and debates across core areas such as cognitive, developmental, biological, and social psychology. It also examines applied fields including psychopathology, criminological and health psychology, and evolutionary perspectives. Students develop foundational research skills, understand ethical considerations, and learn how psychological knowledge is applied to real-world issues. The module provides essential knowledge and skills for further study and supports the development of critical thinking, analysis, and research literacy.

This module introduces students to the key concepts, approaches, and disciplines of social science and how they help us understand society, human behaviour, and social change. By exploring themes such as education, media, crime, globalisation, and power, students develop foundational knowledge and critical thinking skills. The module also builds essential research and communication skills to support successful progression to undergraduate study in social science or related fields.

Why study social sciences at the University of Bath?

  • Study at a highly ranked university, with strong subject rankings and global recognition.  
  • A number of courses have professional accreditations: Psychology BSc is accredited by and confers eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership of the British Psychological Society; Social Work & Applied Social Studies BSc is approved by Social Work England (SWE) and prepares you to meet the Professional Capabilities Framework for newly qualified social workers and SWE Professional Standards; and more.  
  • Studying social sciences at Bath gives you skills that open up a wide range of careers. Social science graduates from Bath typically go on to work in sectors such as: 
      • Business and finance 
      • Education 
      • Healthcare 
      • Journalism and media 
      • Law enforcement and criminal justice 
      • Government and politics 
      • Non-profit and NGOs 
      • Social care and support 
      • Sports and exercise science 
  • Many courses are offered with a professional placement year. You can take advantage of industry links and research institutions to gain extra experience for your CV, make new contacts or try out a career option.

Top 5 in the UK

for Criminology, Social Work, and Sports Science

(The Times and the Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026)

Top 5 in the UK

for Sociology

(The Complete University Guide 2026)

Top 5 in the UK

for Business and Management, and Education

(The Guardian University Guide 2026)

Top 10 in the UK

for Psychology

(The Guardian University Guide 2026)

Top 100 in the world

for Business and Management Studies, Marketing, Social Policy and Administration, Sports-related Subjects, and Psychology

(QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026)

Progress to your degree

Once you complete your International Foundation Year in Social Sciences and achieve the required grades, you can enter your chosen degree at the University of Bath.

If you are progressing to Social Work & Applied Social Studies BSc (Hons), you will also need to have a progression interview during your foundation year to secure progression on to the degree.

Degree Programme NameAwardOverall GradeEnglish GradeGrade Module
No Results

What to do next

Our Student Enrolment Advisors are available to answer any questions you may have and help you with your application.