University of Bristol United Kingdom

BSc Sociology and Philosophy

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BSc Sociology and Philosophy at the University of Bristol invites you to critically examine the foundations of human society and thought. This undergraduate degree is ideal for students driven by a desire to understand complex social phenomena and the philosophical underpinnings of our world, from social identities and power structures to ethical reasoning. You will develop sophisticated analytical skills, learning to dissect societal issues and philosophical arguments with clarity and precision. This programme provides a robust intellectual framework, preparing you to engage with diverse perspectives and contribute to vital conversations in an ever-changing global landscape.

This full-time, on-campus degree is structured over three years, offering a dynamic learning experience. You will engage with core sociological concepts such as thinking sociologically and investigating society, alongside foundational philosophical units like logic and critical thinking. Throughout your studies, you will refine your research methodologies and argumentative capabilities, culminating in a significant final-year project, such as a dissertation or extended essay. You will graduate from the University of Bristol equipped with highly transferable skills, ready for postgraduate study or a wide range of careers in research, policy analysis, social work, and beyond.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BSc program offers a comprehensive exploration of both sociology and philosophy. Students will engage with foundational concepts in both disciplines, developing critical thinking and research skills. The curriculum progresses to advanced topics, allowing for specialization in areas such as ethics, political philosophy, social theory, and contemporary social issues, culminating in a dissertation or extended essay.

1 Year 1 (2024/25 entry cohort)

Introduction to Philosophy A Mandatory
Introduction to Philosophy B Mandatory
Thinking Sociologically Mandatory
Social Identities and Divisions Optional
Key Social Thinkers Optional
Doing Social Research Optional
Logic and Critical Thinking Mandatory

2 Year 2 (2024/25 entry cohort)

Realism and Normativity Mandatory
Investigating Society (Sociology) Mandatory
Philosophy of Mind Optional
Epistemology Optional
Political Philosophy Optional
Philosophy of Language Optional
Capital and Spirit Optional
Fiction and Fictionalism Optional
Ethics Optional
Philosophy of Science Optional
The Nature of Reality Optional
What is democracy, and how should it work? Optional
Philosophy in the Digital Age Optional
Evil, Deviance and Crime Optional
Space, Time and Matter Optional
Ancient Philosophy Optional
Aesthetics Optional
Philosophical Logic Optional
Conceptualising the Social Optional
Ethnicity and Racism Optional
Sociology of Health and Illness Optional
The Sociology of Gender Optional
Class and Social Divisions Optional
Principles of Quantitative Social Science Optional
Sexuality and Society Optional
A Sociology of Crime and Justice Optional
Art and Society Optional
The Sociology of Childhood and Rights Optional
Conducting a Research Project using Secondary Data Optional
The Politics of the Environment Optional

3 Year 3 (2024/25 entry cohort)

Extended Essay (TB1) Optional
Extended Essay (TB2) Optional
Dissertation Optional
Philosophy of Biology Optional
Philosophy of Technology Optional
Ethics and Literature Optional
Philosophy of Psychology Optional
The Philosophy and History of Medicine Optional
Philosophical Issues of Physical Sciences Optional
Virtue and Well-Being Optional
Philosophy and the Environment Optional
The Ethics of Migration and Citizenship Optional
Political Economy Optional
Feminist Philosophy Optional
Themes in Ethics Optional
Death, dying and disease Optional
Beyond Humanity Optional
The Frankfurt School Optional
Philosophy of Mathematics Optional
Perspectives on Power Optional
Public Opinion and Democracy Optional
Religion and Politics Optional
Nations and Nationalism Optional
Gender and Migration Optional
Modern Slavery: Issues and Debates Optional
Risk, Danger and Disaster Optional
Consumption and Sustainability Optional
Queering Sexuality and Gender Optional
Power, Politics and Food Optional
Apocalypse or Ecotopia? Optional
Politics of Rebellion Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,468.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,468.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,468.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 103,405.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,285.00 - USD 2,164.00
Food & Groceries USD 1,048.00 - USD 1,402.00
Transport USD 355.00 - USD 693.00
Utilities & Bills USD 10,471.00 - USD 13,967.00
Estimated Total USD 11,874.00 - USD 16,062.00

Living cost estimates are based on Clifton campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

95%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Biotechnology & GenomicsClient Services & Account ManagementDrug Discovery & ResearchIndustrial & Offshore ConstructionMarket Research & InsightsMarketing Analytics & Data ManagementMedia Planning & BuyingPublic Health & EpidemiologyQuantity Surveying & Cost EstimationResidential Construction

Top Employers Hiring for this course

European commission

North Bristol NHS Trust

United Nations

University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust

University of Exeter

Why Study BSc Sociology and Philosophy at University of Bristol

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Bristol in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BSc Sociology and Philosophy at University of Bristol

Can I work while studying?

International students on degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks without needing a separate work permit. Part-time students cannot work.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you need to meet specific English test requirements. For example, a TOEFL overall score of 95 with minimum subscores is required, or an IELTS overall score of 7.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue various careers such as Sociologist, Philosophy Instructor, Research Analyst, Policy Advisor, and Community Organizer.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course integrates sociology and philosophy, focusing on topics like sociological theory, ethics, and political philosophy. It offers a flexible curriculum that enhances research skills and critical thinking.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BSc Sociology and Philosophy course has an intake period in September each year. Ensure you have all necessary documents ready for your application.
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