Frequently Asked Questions
What is the B.Sc.(Hons.) Social Sciences degree?
Social Sciences can be defined as the study of people in society and how they relate to one another and to the group to which they belong.
This degree is a traditional three year U.K. academic degree which is awarded through the University of Plymouth.
The B.Sc. Social Sciences would be considered a “Joint” degree in the U.K. as it covers a number of the social sciences and does not focus on one specifically.
What type of subjects would I study?
Economic and social history, sociology, criminology, social policy, international relations, research methods.
Who teaches the course?
The B.Sc. Social Sciences is taught by academics and highly qualified professionals from the public sector which means that you learn about both the theory and practice.
I want to study but am worried about the time commitment. When are the classes and how much time would I have to dedicate to the course?
Full-time Study: Classes are normally taught between 9.15 and 14.30, which includes approx 12 hours class contact time each week.
University guidelines suggest studies take some 35-40 hours a week including lectures, assignments, reading and directed studies.
Part-time Study: In the part-time study route students have up to six years to complete the course. They would be required to complete on average 3 modules each year and attend college for the appropriate full-time lectures.
Can I study and work at the same time?
It is possible to study and work. Many students work part-time and many mature students have family commitments to consider too. Each individual must work out their own study-life balance but the evidence of previous students is that it is possible to study and keep other commitments with the key being personal organisation.
What qualifications do I need to get onto the course?
Normally we expect students to show what would be considered Level 3 ademic skills which can be demonstrated through A level or BTEC qualifications with applicants having a minimum of 160 UCAS points.
Mature students without formal qualifications are encouraged to apply as many will have developed appropriate skills through life experience and the workplace. Where applicants do not have the skills required they can develop these through a range of Access to Higher Education courses which are run by the college for mature students.
All applicants will be interviewed and may be asked to provide a short piece of written work.
Can I apply if my partner is a ‘J' category?
If an applicant is the partner of a ‘J’ category person, they will be considered for the course providing their educational qualifications meet the course requirements.
Can I apply if I was born in Jersey but have not lived on the Island for the last 5 years?
If an applicant was born in Jersey they will be considered for the course providing their educational qualifications meet the course requirements.
Do I have to complete a UCAS form to apply for the course?
No, applicants only need to complete a Highlands College application form which can be obtained from the reception at Highlands College.
What are the fees for the course?
Course fees for applicants who have lived in Jersey for 5 or more years are £5,092 for the current academic year.
Course fees for students who have been here for less than 5 years are more than £6,000 for the current academic year.
There is a slight increase in fees each year.
For accurate information based on personal circumstances telephone Student Finance at the Department for Education Sport and Culture on 449450.
What financial support is available?
Applicants who have lived in Jersey for 5 or more years are able to apply for financial support through a grant from the Department for Education Sport and Culture.
Applicants who have not lived on the island for 5 or more years are not entitled to apply for financial support from the Department for Education Sport and Culture.
Am I eligible for financial support?
Eligibility for financial support is means tested. This is based upon parental income for applicants up to the age of 25 or otherwise the applicants household income.
For accurate information based on personal circumstances telephone Student Finance at the Department for Education Sport and Culture on 449450.
Who are the fees paid to?
Fees are paid to Highlands College Finance Office. Students will be invoiced at the beginning of each academic year.
Can the fees be paid in instalments?
Fees can be paid in three instalments in September, January and April.
Applicants must complete a form which can be obtained from Highlands College Finance Office. The form must be signed by the relevant Head of Faculty.
Are fees refundable?
Once the course has begun, fees are not refundable.
I am an International Student, what is the procedure for me to apply for the course?
A translated copy of your qualification needs to be brought to the College in order to check for their UK equivalence. You will then be required to produce evidence of your English Language equivalence. If you do not have this you will be asked to sit an English test to assess your level of written and spoken English.
Who do I contact if I want to discuss my individual circumstances?
You should contact Innes MacLagan, the course manager by telephone
on 01534 608631, or by e-mail at