North West University
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Geography
The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Geography in Earth Sciences is offered by North West University.
Program Length: 3 YEARS.
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Geography offered by the North-West University at the Faculty of Humanities
Motivation for the programme
Studying environmental issues from a sociological perspective means exploring the social dynamics that shape our interactions with the physical environment, studying the manner in which social actions produce and reproduce the quality of the physical environment. In turn, the influence of a physical environment on the social environment, social behaviour, community health, development and wellbeing is studied. It is, therefore, critical to have a sound grasp of geographical and environmental issues. Environmental issues are narrowly linked with social problems and social justice, as vulnerable groups are disproportionately affected by problems such as access to clean air, water, food, as well as more exposed to the problems created, for example, by climate change, environmental politics and access to support for the problems created by toxic environments. Social scientists find it difficult, to study social problems that have their roots in natural and environmental sciences, without a better grasp of core geographical and environmental theories and issues.
Programme outcomes
On completion of this program, students will have some understanding of the nature of society, how it functions and interacts with the environment. They may be able to apply this knowledge in careers that require analytical thought processes and competence to deal with the reciprocal influence of society and the environment, the opportunities and challenges created in this regard, as well as possible interventions. Postgraduate studies in Environmental Sociology and Environmental Management may lead to a career in environmental management, environmental impact assessment, social impact assessment and publicsector work in shaping policy formulation that supports sustainable development.
Post Graduate StudiesIf successful, students may be eligible for admission to an Honours degree.
BA Hons Sociology with Environmental SociologySpecific admission requirements of the Honours programme: In addition to General Rule A.3.2, the following rules apply: a) Applications for the Honours degree closes by end September. b) A B-degree is required, for which all the modules in Sociology were passed during the respective undergraduate levels. c) The modules of the final undergraduate year must have been completed with an average of at least 65%. d) STTK214 should be completed before entry to the Honours programme.
BA Hons SociologySpecific admission requirements of the Honours programme: In addition to General Rule A.3.2, the following rules apply:a) Applications for the Honours degree closes by end September.b) A B-degree is required, for which all the modules in Sociology were passed during the respective undergraduate levels. c) The modules of the final undergraduate year must have been completed with an average of at least 65%.
BA Hons GeographyStudents may be admitted to the Honours qualification in Geography given that they are in possession of a B degree with Geography passed at NQF level 7 with at least 60%. Selection is furthermore based on students’ academic record and other proven appropriate prior learning, but both students’ backgrounds and potential are taken into account.
