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For those aspiring to make a global impact, our BA Social Change program is tailored for you. As awareness of worldwide challenges grows, this is the perfect moment to engage in meaningful societal transformation. This course explores critical topics ranging from ethical dilemmas to environmental concerns, while providing historical context about the factors that have influenced our diverse, interconnected planet.This adaptable program expands your understanding while equipping you with practical solutions for contemporary social issues, empowering you to drive progress in our globalized society. Through hands-on social initiatives and collaborative community work, you'll gain valuable experience and cultivate versatile skills that create tangible impact. You'll develop the leadership capabilities necessary to confront worldwide issues as a catalyst for positive transformation.Our BA Social Change prepares you with both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise to become an influential changemaker. The curriculum focuses on essential domains such as:Community involvementEnvironmental responsibilityFundamental freedomsEquity and fairnessPersonal autonomyHoused within our School of Philosophical, Historical and Interdisciplinary Studies, this program encourages examining social transformation through various academic lenses. The flexible course design lets you select optional modules spanning sociology, philosophy, history, political science, civil liberties, literary studies, and other disciplines.Global learning opportunitiesYour educational journey isn't confined to our campus. We offer an extended five-year program that includes an international study year (your fourth year), while maintaining the same curriculum as the four-year option.International study exposes you to different cultures and languages, enriching your academic and personal growth while demonstrating to future employers your adaptability, independence, and organizational skills.During your year abroad, you'll pay just 15% of standard Essex tuition fees, with no additional costs at your host institution.Professional experience optionAlternatively, you can dedicate your third year to an industry placement, gaining firsthand knowledge of specific sectors, organizations, or roles. This practical experience lets you apply classroom learning in real-world settings while exploring potential career directions. While you'll need to secure your own placement, you'll receive comprehensive support from both your academic department and our dedicated Student Development Team.
All applications for degree courses with a foundation year (Year Zero) will be considered individually, whether you:
think you might not have the grades to enter the first year of a degree course;
have non-traditional qualifications or experience (e.g. you haven’t studied A-levels or a BTEC);
are returning to university after some time away from education; or
are looking for more support during the transition into university study.
Standard offer: Our standard offer is 72 UCAS tariff points from at least two full A-levels, or equivalent.
Examples of the above tariff may include:
A-levels: DDD
BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma: MMP
T-levels: Pass with E in core
If you are unsure whether you meet the entry criteria, please get in touch for advice.
Mature applicants and non-traditional academic backgrounds:
We welcome applications from mature students (over 21) and students with non-traditional academic backgrounds (might not have gone on from school to take level 3 qualifications). We will consider your educational and employment history, along with your personal statement and reference, to gain a rounded view of your suitability for the course.
International applicants:
Essex Pathways Department is unable to accept applications from international students. Foundation pathways for international students are available at the University of Essex International College and are delivered and awarded by Kaplan, in partnership with the University of Essex. Successful completion will enable you to progress to the relevant degree course at the University of Essex.
English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 5.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each component, or specified score in another equivalent test that we accept.
IELTS- 6.0 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each component TOEFL IBT- 76 overall, with a minimum of 18 in reading, 17 in listening, 20 in speaking and 17 in writing