In this course you examine how our actions are shaped by our social environment and explore the values, ideas and beliefs people hold, and the lives we live. You will also understand how social, economic, political and cultural forces shape individuals. From Year Two onward, formal assessments contribute toward your final degree mark. In your third year, your 10,000-word dissertation focuses on a specific topic of your choice. Assessments range from essays to group presentations and portfolios to examinations. On completion of this course many of our students organise work placements out of term time, for example at North Yorkshire Youth Commission, York Crown Court and Refugee Action York. We encourage you to do this so you can gain workplace experience and a deeper insight into issues that interest you. Our graduates forge successful careers all over the world. Some go on to work in criminal justice, the media, and education; others work in social research, health and welfare services, and the charity sector.