(Full time) 2019 start
Sociology and Theology and Religious Studies BA
Overview
This fascinating and varied Joint Honours degree will give you an insight into how societies are structured and organised, as well as the ways in which religious traditions shape and are shaped by the world we live in.
You’ll explore key concepts and approaches in both subjects through core modules on topics such as Sociology of Modern Societies and Religion in Modern Britain. Then you’ll build on this foundation when you choose from a wide range of optional modules.
All the world’s major religions are represented on this degree alongside health and society, global terrorism, ethics, beliefs about humanity and sin, ethnicity, science and religion and the sociology of religion itself. You can even undertake fieldwork in this vibrant, religiously diverse city.
Spanning the arts, humanities and social sciences, this degree gives you a fascinating insight into the relationship between individuals, societies, institutions and faith while equipping you with an impressively broad set of skills.
Course content
A Joint Honours degree allows you to study the same core topics as students on each Single Honours course, but you’ll take fewer options and discovery modules so you can fit in both subjects.
In your first year you’ll study core modules that introduce you to the key concepts and approaches in each subject, applying sociological principles to contemporary society and exploring the role and position of religion in modern Britain. You’ll also choose from optional modules in each subject, focusing on major world religions and texts, philosophy of religion or important issues in today’s society.
This will help you to build a firm knowledge base for the following year, when you’ll take core modules looking at the challenges facing sociologists and placing religion in its social, cultural and political context. You’ll also select optional modules in each subject such as disability studies, the sociology of culture, the New Testament or religion, gender and society.
By your final year you’ll benefit from greater choice in your optional modules, covering topics from consumerism and protest movements to sin and the relationship between religion and development. You’ll also showcase the skills in research and analysis that you’ve developed when you undertake an independently researched dissertation on a topic of your choice.
Course structure
The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.
Learning and teaching
The School of Philosophy, Religion and History of Science and the School of Sociology and Social Policy are both home to tutors who are experts in their fields.
To help you make the most of their knowledge and experience, we use a variety of teaching and learning methods including lectures, tutorials, seminars and occasionally workshops. However, we emphasise independent study as an integral element of the degree, since it gives you the best opportunity to develop your skills in research and analysis.
On this course you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.
Assessment
Exams and essays are among the types of assessment we normally use, but some modules may also incorporate group work or oral presentations as assessed components. We offer plenty of support throughout your time at Leeds to help you handle assessments, such as extra classes on public speaking and exam technique.
Entry requirements, fees and applying
Entry requirements
A-level: ABB
GCSE: Grade 4/C in Mathematics.
Other course specific tests:We welcome applications from mature students with Access qualifications, and from students with a wide range of qualifications.
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Access to HE Diploma
Pass diploma with 60 credits overall, including at least 45 credits at level 3, of which 30 credits must be at Distinction and 15 credits at Merit or higher. Grade 4/C in Mathematics at GCSE is required. An interview and a piece of written work may also be required.
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BTEC
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma: DDM. Other BTEC qualifications are also considered. Please contact the Admissions Office for more information.
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Cambridge Pre-U
M1, M1, M1.
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International Baccalaureate
34 points overall including 16 at Higher Level and 5 in Mathematics at Standard Level
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Irish Leaving Certificate (higher Level)
H2, H2, H2, H3, H3, H3
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Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers
BB in Advanced Highers and AABBB in Highers, or B in Advanced Highers and AAABB in Highers, or AABBBB in Highers
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Other Qualifications
European Baccalaureate: 77%
Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the Schools Undergraduate Admissions Team.
Alternative entry
We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.
Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.
Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.
International
We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. For more information contact the School of Philosophy, Religion and History of Science Undergraduate Admissions team.
International Foundation Year
International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.
English language requirements
IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.
Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.
How to apply
Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.
International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.
Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.
Fees
UK/EU: See fees section below
International: £18,500 (per year)
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2024/25
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students are set by the UK Government and will be £9,250 for students starting in 2024/25.
The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation only, as a consequence of future changes in Government legislation and as permitted by law.
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students starting in 2025/26 have not yet been confirmed by the UK government. When the fee is available we will update individual course pages.
Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2024/25 and 2025/26
Tuition fees for international students for 2024/25 are available on individual course pages. Fees for students starting in 2025/26 will be available from September 2024.
Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.
Read more about paying fees and charges.
There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.
Financial support
If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.
Career opportunities
Cutting across arts, humanities and social sciences, a Joint Honours degree in Sociology and Theology and Religious Studies will equip you with an impressive range of subject knowledge and transferable skills.
You’ll have the organisational skills you need to manage two different subjects, and you’ll also be comfortable working independently or in a team. You’ll be a confident researcher who can analyse information from a range of sources and draw your own conclusions. In addition, you’ll be able to present and defend your views both verbally and in writing thanks to your advanced communication skills.
All of these qualities are attractive to employers across different sectors, and graduates have been successful in diverse careers that reflect the variety of the degree. These include social and charity work, education, journalism, the creative industries, law, the civil service and marketing. Many also progress to postgraduate study.
Careers support
We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.
Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.
The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more about Careers support.
Study abroad and work placements
Study abroad
All University of Leeds students can apply to spend a year studying abroad. It’s a great way to gain an insight into another culture, as well as gaining valuable experience that will really enhance your CV. The University has partnerships with more than 400 universities worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America.
The School of Philosophy, Religion and History of Science also has exclusive exchange links with Charles University in Prague, Czech Republic. You could be taught in English, German or Czech – language classes are available before you go to prepare you for the experience.
Read more about study abroad in Philosophy, Religion and History of Science
Work placements
Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.
Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.