Program Overview
The BA in Community Studies is a part-time evening degree designed for adult students seeking a deeper understanding of community issues and social challenges. Through a flexible modular structure, students explore topics such as social policy, inequality, and community development, preparing them for careers in social services, community work, and further academic study. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and a commitment to social justice and community engagement.
Program Outline
BA Community Studies
Degree Overview:
Objectives:
- To equip students with a critical understanding of community issues, structures, and processes.
- To develop analytical and research skills for investigating and addressing social challenges.
- To foster critical reflection on social justice, inclusion, and community development.
Description:
This flexible degree caters to individuals with busy lives, offering evening classes to accommodate work and family commitments. Students are not divided into traditional year groups, instead, they can choose modules based on their interests and availability as they become available on the program's modular carousel. Students will engage with:
- Social policy and community development
- Inequality and social justice
- Cultural diversity and identity
- Historical and contemporary social movements
- Educational and community-based research
- Social work and interventions
- Youth studies and community engagement
Outline:
Students can choose from a wide range of modules, allowing them to tailor their studies to their specific interests and career aspirations.
Sample modules offered in the program include:
- Introduction to Community Studies
- Social Policy and Community Development
- Community Research and Engagement
- Social Inequality and Social Justice
- Youth Studies and Community Work
- Addiction and Recovery
- Adult and Community Education
- Social Movements and Activism
- Local History and Community Identity
- Social Work and Interventions
The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills development, and real-world application of knowledge.
Assessment:
Common assessment methods include:
- Essays and research papers
- Presentations and group projects
- Reflective journals and portfolios
- Examinations (written and oral)
Assessment criteria typically focus on students' ability to demonstrate:
- A critical understanding of key concepts and theories
- Strong analytical and research skills
- Effective communication and writing skills
Teaching:
Common approaches include:
- Interactive lectures and seminars
- Group discussions and collaborative projects
- Problem-based learning and case studies
- Guest lectures and field trips
Students are also encouraged to develop independent learning skills through individual research and assignments. Students benefit from close interactions with faculty members and fellow students, creating a strong sense of community within the program.
Careers:
Potential career paths include:
- Community Development Worker
- Youth Worker
- Social Worker
- Addiction Counselor
- Adult Education Teacher
- Community Organizer
- Policy Analyst
- Researcher
- Activist
