BA in Sociology & Community Development

In-depth theory. Practical application.

This qualification will enable students to gain an in-depth understanding of sociological theories and to analyse and evaluate these theories with reference to issues such as poverty, globalisation, conflict, the environment, and gender — with special focus on South Africa and the African continent.

The qualification also provides students with practical community, cross-cultural, and social research skills. During their first year, students also take the foundational set of modules referred to as the 'Cornerstone Core' — History, Sociology, Ethics, Philosophy, Economics, and Leadership Studies — embedded with Cornerstone's core values of inclusivity, excellence, integrity, unity, respect, and creativity.

• Understand the principles, concepts, history, and major approaches to the study of society
• Understand sociological theory as applied to institutions such as family, religion, government, and community life
• Understand their own culture and appreciate the values of other cultures
• Understand the psycho-social problems facing Africa today, with an emphasis on poverty and poverty alleviation
• Analyse economic systems from a sociological perspective within the African context
• Engage critically with examples of social, cultural, economic, and political oppression and injustice
• Conduct research into social issues — participatory research methodologies, evaluation research, report writing, and proposal writing

Watch the programme overview