There is a strong emphasis on developing the learning skills required for studies at higher education level in the UK. The teaching of the three specialist modules – Politics, Law, and Economics – encourages students to evaluate and analyze information, construct balanced arguments, and to apply theories and concepts to current political, legal and economic issues. In Law, students are given an understanding of the English legal system and processes and develop skills in applying legal rules and principles to specific cases. The first term gives students a firm foundation in law making and interpretation, court systems, negligence, and contract law. In the second term, students develop a more detailed understanding of criminal law and explore issues of morality, justice, and judicial creativity. There is a strong emphasis on evaluating information and knowledge and developing the ability to construct logical, coherent and balanced arguments.
Government & Politics introduces students to political systems and processes in the UK. It looks at the relationship between the legislature and executive and encourages an evaluation of where power lies within the UK system. It also examines representative processes and institutions and questions the strengths and weaknesses of democracy in the UK. There is a strong emphasis on applying knowledge to contemporary politics such as the General Election in 2015.
The foundation in Social Sciences also focuses on political institutions and processes in the USA and again challenges students to evaluate and analyze how successfully power is dispersed within the political system.
Students develop skills in comparing the systems in the UK and USA and reaching judgments on the similarities and differences between them.
The Economics module combines a study of micro and macro content in exploring a range of economic issues drawn from national and international contexts. This Social Sciences foundation course promotes an understanding of economic concepts and theories through a critical consideration of current economic issues, problems, and institutions that affect everyday life.
