BA (Hons) Sociology and Human Resource Management

On this degree you won’t just cover theory about social dynamics and HR-management; you’ll actively engage in real-world learning, applying insights from sociology into human resource scenarios and business settings. You’ll use facilities such as the modern campuses at Kedleston Road and the city-centre social sciences building, collaborate in seminars, labs, case-studies and placement opportunities. The university’s strong business-community links mean you’ll connect what you study with practical organisational life.

Here are some of the hands-on learning opportunities and facility features you’ll benefit from:

• A year-long optional placement in an HR setting to put the skills you’ve learned into action in a real workplace (or semester abroad to explore sociology across cultures)
• Learning methods that mix lectures, seminars, guest lectures, online collaboration, group work, case studies, computer-lab work and work-experience projects so you don’t just listen—you do:
• Access to modern study facilities including the library at Kedleston Road (well-resourced for social sciences) and dedicated social-learning spaces for the social sciences hub at One Friar Gate Square for cross-discipline collaboration.
• Strong emphasis on linking theoretical frameworks (from sociology and HR) with business practice: real business links, case studies, computer-lab work for HR modules.
• Personal Academic Tutoring (PAT) support: you’re assigned a tutor who helps you plan your academic progress, support your growth and map career or study options.

Here’s the link to the programme page with full details of modules and learning opportunities:

Why this programme works for you

If you’re someone who’s genuinely interested in how societies function, how people at work relate to each other, and how organisations manage and develop talent, this programme is an excellent match. By studying both sociology and HR management you’ll graduate with a unique blend: the ability to understand human behaviour and group dynamics and the tools to apply that understanding in HR, business, consultancy or research roles. According to the course page you’ll “gain a contemporary perspective on human resource management … and how the management of people is central to the needs of a business.”

Moreover, statistics show that students on this programme find the resources supportive and the learning opportunities strong: e.g., 87% of students reported positively on learning resources and facilities.

Next steps

If you’re thinking of applying, here’s a quick checklist to help you prepare:

• Confirm you meet the entrance requirements (for example, typical UCAS points are around 112 for many joint honours at Derby)
• Think about whether you might take the optional placement year: it gives you real-world experience and strengthens your CV.
• Reflect on which pathway you might prefer: since this is a Joint Honours you will study both subjects equally in the first year, and later choose whether to major in sociology, HRM, or continue both equally.
• Visit the campus (or attend a virtual open day) to see the social sciences hub, the HRM teaching spaces and the library – this helps you get a feel for your learning environment.
• Start thinking about your personal statement: mention why you’re drawn to both society/people studies and organisational HR practice, and what you hope to achieve (e.g., working in HR in the public sector, research in social policy, or joining a business as an HR professional with a sociological lens).

Graduates of this program are uniquely positioned to understand and influence organizational dynamics through a sociological lens, making them valuable assets in various sectors. Typical roles include:

• HR Officer: Managing recruitment, employee relations, and organizational development.
• Diversity and Inclusion Specialist: Developing strategies to promote workplace diversity and inclusion.
• Employee Wellbeing Coordinator: Implementing programs to enhance employee health and satisfaction.
• Organizational Development Consultant: Advising organizations on structural changes and culture transformation.

These roles are increasingly in demand as organizations seek professionals who can blend sociological insights with effective human resource management practices.

University Support & Industry Integration

The University of Derby provides robust support to ensure student success and employability:

• Career Services: Offers personalized career advice, CV workshops, and interview preparation.
• Industry Placements: Opportunities to work with leading companies, gaining practical experience.
• Networking Events: Regular events connecting students with industry professionals.
• Alumni Network: Access to a global network of graduates for mentorship and career opportunities.

The university's strong industry connections facilitate real-world learning experiences and enhance employability.

Further Academic Progression:

Upon completing the BA (Hons) Sociology and Human Resource Management, graduates have several pathways for further academic advancement:

• Master's Programs: Pursue advanced degrees in Business Administration, Human Resource Management, or Sociology to deepen expertise.
• Professional Certifications: Obtain certifications in HR practices or business management to enhance career prospects.
• Doctoral Studies: Engage in research-focused programs to contribute to the academic field of sociology and human resources.

These options provide opportunities to specialize further and stay at the forefront of developments in business and human resource management.