Study community studies abroad

Community studies degrees examine the interactions of people in today’s societies, as well as the social policies, systems, and challenges they encounter.

Drawing on theories and concepts from sociology, anthropology, and history will help you to understand the behaviors of people in community settings. You’ll critically analyze contemporary social issues, like healthcare, crime, and education, and evaluate the policies and laws that intend to uphold community welfare.

Studying abroad is an eye-opening experience that’ll expose you to new communities and ways of life. You’ll develop the personal and professional skills needed to engage with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds, taking your employability to the next level.

Community studies programs are usually offered as bachelor’s degrees over three or four years. However, there are several part-time learning options available for those who need to fit their studies around work or family commitments.

Many universities also encourage students to complete a placement between their second and final year of study. Placements are an unbeatable opportunity to apply what you’ve learned and connect with experts in the field.

If you opt to study in the US, you’ll likely select community studies as your major. You’ll take two years of liberal arts classes before focusing on major-specific courses for the final half of your program.

Postgraduate qualifications in community studies are available for those hungry to learn more. A master’s degree can be studied over one or to years, followed by a PhD which normally takes between four and six years to finish.

Your timetable will mainly consist of lectures, seminars, tutorials, and workshops. Some universities might also arrange field trips to community facilities and groups, as well as guest presentations from industry professionals.

The exact content of your program will depend on where you choose to study and the elective modules you select. However, most institutions deliver core units in these topics:

• Theories of community and social groups
• Social policy and welfare provision
• Contemporary issues in the community
• Social divisions and groups
• Promoting healthy communities
• Protecting vulnerable groups and communities
• Managing inequality

With a community studies degree under your belt, you’ll be ready to launch a challenging but rewarding career.

You could apply your knowledge and expertise across many community-based sectors, including education, social work, healthcare, charity, government, and research. Here are just a handful of the roles you could land:

• Social worker
• Youth worker
• Community development worker
• Probation officer
• Careers advisor
• Community education officer
• Family support worker
• Police officer

Participating in relevant paid or voluntary work experience is a terrific way to boost your job prospects. There are loads of community service projects you could get involved with, including youth clubs, soup kitchens, and play schemes. You could also try contacting local schools or government departments to see if they offer internships.