Pre-Masters in Social Sciences
Prepare for your postgraduate degree in social sciences
Is this programme a good fit for you
This programme is designed for students who do not currently meet the direct entry requirements for a postgraduate degree in social sciences at the University of Bath. It is also a great option for those looking to strengthen their academic skills or adapt to the study approach expected at postgraduate level in the UK. On this Social Sciences route, you’ll:
- improve your academic English skills and essential UK university study skills such as critical thinking, research discussions, and lecture note-taking
- learn how to design, conduct, and present independent research, using appropriate methodologies and ethical practices
- build a solid foundation in social sciences, explore key theories and concepts across disciplines, with a focus on human behaviour, policy-making, and global issues
- develop data analysis and quantitative skills with the ability to interpret data and apply statistical tools to support academic work and real-world decision making
- improve communication, teamwork, and leadership, enhance career readiness and professional skills for future success
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 in collaboration 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 will need for postgraduate 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 Research Project module equips students with the advanced skills and knowledge required to design, execute, and communicate a comprehensive research project. This module emphasises critical thinking, ethical research practices, and the integration of sustainability principles to produce impactful research. Students will gain practical experience in formulating research questions, conducting a literature review, applying appropriate research methodologies, and presenting findings effectively to diverse audiences.
This module provides students with foundations in core concepts and theories shared by the main social science disciplines. It will introduce pre-masters students to an interdisciplinary review on aspects of human behaviour, including individual, social and political behaviour. It also provides the opportunity for students to explore policy-making research in more depth, in the context of globalisation. Students will be able to focus on extensively studied topics in different social science disciplines. The policy-analysis framework allows students to develop their analytical and critical-thinking skills, as well as develop employability skills.
The Personal and Professional Development module aims to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and mindset necessary for personal growth and professional success. The module emphasises self-awareness, career planning, effective communication, leadership, and teamwork while fostering cultural competence and resilience. Students will develop practical tools such as CVs, cover letters, and professional online profiles, alongside reflective writing techniques to enhance their career readiness and lifelong learning.
The Quantitative Methods module equips students with essential statistical tools and techniques for analysing and interpreting data in real-world and academic contexts. This module covers descriptive statistics, probability, sampling, statistical inference, regression analysis, and the application of statistical software. By emphasising practical applications, the module prepares students to make data-driven decisions and develop insights into complex problems.
Why study Social Sciences at the University of Bath?
- Study at a highly ranked university, with strong subject rankings and global recognition
- You’ll learn from experts in their fields, including staff in the wider Department of Social & Policy Sciences community (if you study International Development courses), or across the wider Department of Politics, Languages and International Studies (if you study International Relations courses). Their passion, knowledge, experience and research shape their teaching to enhance your learning experience
- The Psychology MRes, recognised by the Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC), specifically, is a master’s degree with a focus on research. The knowledge and expertise you’ll gain will prepare you for doctoral study and a range of non-academic careers that require strong research skills
- 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
Top 100
in the world for Development Studies, Psychology, and Social Policy & Administration
(QS World Rankings by Subject 2026)
Top 5
in the UK for Criminology and Education
(The Guardian University Guide 2026)
Top 10
in the UK for Psychology
(The Guardian University Guide 2026)
