The development of transferable skills is incorporated into normal teaching and learning activities. These skills are intended both to enrich students' learning experience and provide them with competencies that will help them in their future careers.

Research design, data collection and data analysis

Students are taught research methods in both the first and second years and conduct a supervised research project in the third year. The continual emphasis on methods throughout the course enables students to master the basics of research design before they graduate. They are taught a variety of methods for data collection and are also trained in the analysis of textual, numeric and visual data.

These skills are increasingly valued by employers in both the private and public sector and provide a solid base for those entering graduate employment in any profession where research is conducted or consumed.

Writing skills

In addition to more traditional forms of assessment, such as coursework essays and examinations, students must also prepare assignments using different forms of writing and presentation. This enables students to broaden their skills in this key area of communication and develop competencies that will serve them well after they graduate.

Presentation Skills

Presentation skills are fostered from the outset during seminar sessions and students are encouraged to share their ideas and opinions with small groups. Later students may make more formal presentations to their seminar class and tutor, and some modules incorporate presentations into their final assessments. With an increasing number of job selection processes involving much more than just an interview, these skills can be vital in securing a place in the competitive graduate labour market.

Information and communication technology (ICT)

Students are encouraged to utilise the extensive ICT facilities provided by the University. In addition to a wide range of common applications for word processing, web browsing and email, specialist packages for the analysis of social scientific data are also available.

Training covering a wide range of skills, and aimed at different levels of ability, is provided by the Student Support and Development Service. [Click on this link for more information on the Student Support and Development Service]