Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences

Programme objectives

1. To equip students with theories and other bodies of knowledge, which will enhance an understanding of the nature, growth, dynamics and functioning of human societies
2. To train high-level human resources with the skills to enhance national development in general and to solve specific social problems.
3. To develop analytical skills in students for designing and formulating policies that are of social relevance.
4. To generate knowledge about human societies, through research.
5. To produce graduates who can be critical of social issues with a view to contributing to knowledge as well as identifying and providing solutions to social problems.

Field/Area

The curriculum for the BASS programme consists of six (6) fields/areas of study namely: Political Science, Sociology, Social Administration, Gender and Development, Economics and Psychology. Students may also take courses from other relevant Departments and Faculties.

First Year of Studies

First year students take any six courses each semester. Two courses from each of three different areas/fields of study per semester that is, 12 courses in the first year. The courses for First year studies are called Prerequisite or Introductory courses.

Second and Third Years

Students are required to offer a major in one area/field of study and a minor in another.

Major: A Major is a set of courses in a Field/area of specialisation in which each student is encouraged to explore the Field/Area in considerable depth. The set of courses for a Major constitutes not less than two-thirds of the Programme Load.

Minor: A Minor is a set of courses in a Field/Area that is of lesser importance than the Major. A Minor constitutes not more than a third of the Programme Load.  For a minor, a student offers at least one core course in the chosen area/field of study in an academic year.

General Programme Structure

Graduation Requirements

In order to qualify for the award of a degree of Bachelor Arts in Social Sciences of Bishop Stuart University, a student must have satisfied the University Senate in the following:

1. Must have been a registered student for the prescribed six semesters of this programme.
2. Must have successfully completed the prescribed number of credit units for this programme which includes development internship. (108 credit units)

Retakes

If a student fails a course, one must retake the course only when it is offered. A failed course can only be retaken twice.

Assessment

Students will be required to do progressive course works and a summative test carrying a 40% mark and a final examination carrying a 60% mark.

Grading and Classification of Awards

Each course is graded out of a maximum of one hundred (100) marks. The grading is as follows: