Course summary

Social Science looks at why and how we live the way we do. The social sciences look at society and social behaviour to understand, explain and change human behaviour to positively transform the lives of individuals, families and communities.

Social Scientists work in diverse social environments to identify issues and develop strategies for solutions to social problems. Nationally and globally there is a demand for social scientists who are able to understand the complex and changing needs of societies in the face of technological, economic and social changes that constantly affect the smallest of communities to the largest of continents.

This degree

The UOW Bachelor of Social Science degree embeds Indigenous knowledge’s and content, and subjects that will develop your understanding of social inequalities impacting on the health and well-being of individuals, families and communities. You will also be provided with career ready experiences throughout the degree to prepare you for a changing world of work.

What you will study

You will complete a common foundation of compulsory core subjects and engage in interdisciplinary study through majors that come from a number of social science disciplines. You will also have the opportunity to complement your studies with a minor or elective subjects from any field in the University offering cross faculty enrolment.

Majors on offer include:

• Criminology
• Human Geography
• Human Services
• Occupational Health and Safety
• Sociology

Pathway to Teaching

You may also take a Foundations in Teaching minor and complete the Bachelor of Social Science (Pathway to Primary Education) (UAC: 755305). You will complete a Social Science major of your choice, while adding an Education element to your degree.

This pathway degree offers priority entry to the Master of Teaching (Primary) and a reduced study load while undertaking your master’s degree. You’ll graduate with an undergraduate and postgraduate degree, as well as the qualification and skills to teach children aged 5-12 years.

Learn more about our teaching pathways

Study at UOW Shoalhaven

Students are able to complete the Bachelor of Social Science majoring in Human Services or Sociology at the UOW Shoalhaven campus (UAC: 755300-1).