University of Plymouth launches new School of Society and Culture

@PlymUn has launched its new School of Society and Culture, which offers students access to a reimagined set of courses across the social sciences, law, humanities and performing arts.

Embedded within industry and delivered by world experts actively driving change, these degrees are designed so students experience first-hand the relevance of their subjects in the modern world and in addressing some of today’s most pressing social issues.

With a focus on ‘hands-on’ learning, the new school creates an environment that roots the subjects in the real world. It empowers students to personalise their degree and delve into wider subjects that are important to them from across the school’s portfolio.

From their second year onwards, students have the option to swap in modules from across the school’s 17 disciplines. The aim is to allow students to experience the relevance of their subject skills in solving problems across disciplinary borders, encouraging them to see their studies through a new lens – following their interests wherever they might take them to make a real difference in society. A creative writing student can see their script come to life with a module in drama, or a law student could explore the political landscapes that shape our legal systems with a politics module.

A multi-disciplinary approach sits at the heart of the school and comes to life through partnerships, where relationships with major South West organisations like The Box and Theatre Royal Plymouth engage students in practical learning across English, creative writing, history, drama, acting, musical theatre and music. Links with partners such as HMP Exeter bring new insights to students interested in criminology, with the option to study alongside prisoners; and the new on-campus community Law Clinic allows students to use their skills to support those most in need in the region.

Commenting on the launch, Professor Annika Bautz, Head of the School of Culture and Society, said:

“Our degrees give you experience of using your studies in the real world by getting hands-on in the community and with industry partners throughout your degree, ensuring you graduate with experience that sets you apart. Studying with us also means you have the opportunity to follow your passions and explore what really inspires and motivates you. Empowering you to choose modules across multiple subjects takes this further, enabling you to follow your passions and experience the relevance of your subject skills in solving problems across disciplines. In the school, we offer breadth and depth, with a dedicated team of academics and practitioners who get to know our students by name. By focusing on the impact our disciplines can have in the real world – and giving students genuine experience of putting this into practice – we are supporting the next generation of change-makers and showing the value of these critical subjects to society.”