POSTGRADUATE COURSES IN
Applied
Social Studies
MSc Applied Psychology
MSc Corporate Social Responsibility and Energy
MSc Energy and Sustainability
BA/DipHE Social Pedagogy
MSc Social Work
APPLIED SOCIAL STUDIES
WELCOME TO THE
SCHOOL OF APPLIED SOCIAL STUDIES
reasons why we’re better...
FLEXIBLE STUDY modes
DESIGNED TO FIT around YOUR
BUSY LIFE. STUDY ONLINE,
PART-TIME OR FULL-TIME.
AN INSPIRATIONAL
LEARNING ENVIRONMENT
ABERDEEN IS SCOTLAND'S
THIRD BIGGEST CITY with
a high quality of life.
informed by industry
OUR VOCATIONAL COURSES ARE
DIRECTLY INFORMED AND ENDORSED
BY THOSE WORKING IN INDUSTRY.
Succeed in your career
We produce high-calibre
graduates with highly
desirable skills who are
snapped up by recruiters
and head-hunted by the best
in the business.
2 THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY
Whether you have recently graduated, want
professional accreditation, are looking to
retrain or develop your career – whatever
your reasons for postgraduate study – we
have an excellent reputation for producing
high-calibre graduates with transferable skills
that can enhance careers.
WHO IS THIS BOOKLET FOR?
This booklet is for individuals considering a fulltime, part-time or online postgraduate taught
course within Applied Social Studies. See the
full course list at www.rgu.ac.uk/better
If you are a business owner or HR manager
seeking information on customised training
please contact [email protected]
If you are considering a research degree,
please visit the postgrad research webpage.
www.rgu.ac.uk/postgraduate-research
WELCOME FROM THE DEAN
As the largest provider of social work education
in Scotland, our partnerships with various social
work agencies ensure our MSc Social Work
course is kept in line with current developments
in social work practice and that our graduates
enter the workplace well equipped to meet the
challenges they find there. We are regularly
commended by external examiners and we were
also highly successful in the recent five yearly
review of Social Work and Social Sciences.
INNOVATIVE RESEARCH
We offer high quality
research with a
real-world focus.
ACCREDITED COURSES
the majority of our
courses have accreditation
by professional bodies.
a sign of high quality.
We offer a range of specialist
postgraduate courses with flexible
modes of study, including online or
full-time to fit around your needs.
£120 MILLION
INVESTMENT
IN OUR AMAZING
RIVERSIDE CAMPUS
Our growing research profile in psychology and
sociology underpins our Masters in Applied
Psychology and Corporate Social Responsibility
and Energy, equipping graduates to meet the
increasing need for enhanced understanding
about influences on policies and the outcomes
of these policies in the oil and gas sector.
We have a reputation amongst our students
for providing a friendly, flexible and supportive
learning environment to give you the best start
on your chosen career path.
15% ALUMNI DISCOUNT
RGU GRADUATES get a 15%
DISCOUNT on postgraduate
course fees. applies to both
home and overseas alumni.
We look forward to welcoming you to the
School of Applied Social Studies.
Professor Valerie Maehle
Dean, Faculty of Health and Social Care
3 THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY
APPLIED SOCIAL STUDIES
AN OUTSTANDING
REPUTATION
OUTSTANDING REPUTATION
We are extremely proud of our graduate
employment record and are consistently top
in the UK for graduate employability. Our
success stems from an outstanding reputation
for producing capable and highly-qualified
graduates who learn and apply the skills,
knowledge and professionalism that
employers want in the workplace.
FLEXIBLE LEARNING
We deliver both on-campus and online
courses, providing you with flexible study
options to fit in with work and other
commitments. Study options include full-time,
part-time or online.
BEST RIVERSIDE CAMPUS IN EUROPE
We have a reputation amongst our students
for providing a friendly, supportive and
stimulating learning environment based at
Garthdee on the banks of the beautiful River
Dee. The riverside is home to deer, otters,
heron and other wildlife. Our campus has
beautiful woodland walkways and parkland,
connecting our modern, stylish buildings. In
twenty minutes you can be in the vibrant city
centre of Aberdeen, or surrounded by scenic
hills and picturesque countryside.
In the past decade, the University has invested
more than £120 million to improve its facilities.
We consider our riverside campus to be one
of the most attractive campuses in the UK and
one of Europe’s finest.
Watch our campus video from the air:
www.rgu.ac.uk/aerial-view
Take a virtual tour of our fantastic facilities and
our dynamic modern campus at:
www.rgu.ac.uk/virtualtours
We’re one of the
top UK universities
for postgraduate
employability, with a
98.5% employment rate
HESA Destination of UK
Leavers' Survey 2013/14
our Affiliations and
professional links
We have a strong portfolio of quality courses.
The accreditation of these by the professional
bodies is verification of the calibre and quality
of our postgraduate courses. Please see
individual course pages for full information.
FACULTY OF HEALTH AND
SOCIAL CARE BUILDING
STRONG LINKS TO INDUSTRY
We work closely with employers at every
stage, from course development and
accreditation, to guest speakers and
commercial collaborations with industry.
We are committed to successful working
partnerships with partner agencies and
employers across different sectors throughout
the world. These partnerships ensure that all
our courses are always timely and relevant.
ACADEMIC EXPERTS
We’re proud of our teaching staff; proud of their
quality and academic achievements as well as
the practical experience they have in their area.
Our professors, lecturers and tutors combine
first-class qualifications with time spent in
business or industry. They offer insight from
both worlds – the theoretical and practical –
to help inspire you.
We consider our riverside campus,
based on the banks of the beautiful
River Dee, to be one of the most
attractive campuses in the UK and one
of Europe’s finest. The riverside is home
to deer, otters, heron and other wildlife.
Our campus has beautiful woodland
walkways and parkland, connecting our
modern, stylish buildings. In twenty
minutes you can be in the vibrant city
centre of Aberdeen, or surrounded by
scenic and picturesque countryside.
Watch our campus video from the air
www.rgu.ac.uk/aerial-view
Or come and see the campus for yourself by
registering to attend one of our postgraduate
events. www.rgu.ac.uk/better
4 THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY
5 THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY
APPLIED SOCIAL STUDIES
FLEXIBLE STUDY TO
SUIT YOUR BUSY LIFE
WHAT others
SAY ABOUT US
When considering a postgraduate course, it is important to also consider the
mode of study which best suits your needs. We deliver the equivalent learning
experience across all our modes of study, offering a variety of different options,
allowing you to gain the qualifications you need in a way that suits you.
Full-time study
This is the quickest route and requires full
attendance for the duration of the programme.
Allows you to gain the knowledge and skills you
require within the shortest amount of time.
Part-time study
If you are looking to continue working during
your studies or have other commitments, this
option allows you to incorporate studying with
other responsibilities. Part-time courses run
alongside the full-time programmes and split the
same modules across the length of the course.
Flexible online study
If you are unable to study on campus, we offer
an online study mode via Campus Moodle, our
virtual learning environment.
It is a valuable tool that provides an integrated
package of resources and facilities to all of
our students via the internet. You will be able
to interact with fellow students and tutors
through innovative technologies including
podcasts, videos, chat and discussion forums.
You will be taken through an induction by tutors
at the beginning of each programme.
www.rgu.ac.uk/campusmoodle
Online students have a strong sense of
community through the use of discussion
forums, chat and group working areas.
Some courses also have optional periods of
attendance where students are invited on
campus to meet fellow students, staff, use
facilities and participate in workshops.
Download our guide to online learning at:
www.rgu.ac.uk/better-online
6 THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY
QUALIFICATIONS EXPLAINED
If you don’t want to commit to studying a
full Masters degree, you can complete single
modules and work towards the following
exit awards:
Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert)
Award granted on completion of modules
that accumulate to 60 credits.
Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip)
Award granted on completion of modules
that accumulate to 120 credits. If you get a
diploma you will have gained 120 of the
180 credits you need for a masters degree.
Masters (MSc/MBA)
Award granted on completion of modules
that accumulate to 180 credits and typically
includes a dissertation. This will enable
you to consolidate and apply the skills
and knowledge gained in your earlier
postgraduate study.
Doctorate (PhD/PD)
Application is normally to MSc/MRes with
transfer to a PhD dependent on satisfactory
progress around 12 months.
The working relationship
between the tutors and
students is excellent; enhanced
by students being able to
communicate with tutors
through email, telephone
calls and one-to-one tutorials.
my research will not only benefit
policing within the UK, but also
law enforcement globally.
Chief Inspector Andy Brown
talks about his PhD in
Professional Practice
Christopher Barclay
STUDIED Social Work ONLINE
RGU has an excellent reputation
in the field of Social Work and
I wanted to be part of that
success. I like the way the course
is structured – the lecturers
are helpful and make the course
really enjoyable. There is plenty
of help and support available
should I need it, making the
course more manageable!
second year PGDIP/MSC
Social Work student
My choice was driven by the
fact that the Corporate Social
Responsibility and Energy
programme has numerous
world-class researchers.
They are very helpful and
supportive of students.
The small class size makes
learning interactive.
the facilities are comparable to
any top university in the world.
I feel I'm ready to contribute to
development back home in Ghana,
by helping to solve problems
through innovative research
and most critically, inspiring
the next generation of African
development thinkers.
Francis Xavier Tuokuu
CSR AND ENERGY
7 THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY
APPLIED SOCIAL STUDIES
CAREER OPTIONS in…
Social Work AND Social Sciences
ENHANCE
YOUR CAREER
Graduates from the School of Applied Social Studies can enter careers within the public, private
and voluntary sectors, and engage with communities, businesses, local and national governments.
Strong links with colleagues in Social Work, Social Care and corporate organisations mean that
our graduates find that their time at RGU has prepared them well for working life.
CAREER PROSPECTS
Our relentless focus on professional education
means our graduates are not just ready to
work, but are also equipped to make an
enduring and valuable contribution to industry
and the professions on a regional, national and
global scale. We believe it is our inspirational
teaching and practical courses that make our
graduates such desirable candidates.
CORPORATE SOCIAL
RESPONSIBILITY
PROFESSIONAL
CSR professionals develop and implement
socially responsible policies and behaviours in
governments, NGOs and oil, gas and renewable
companies. They can work within specialised
CSR-related sections or across disciplines such
as commerce, communications, community
development, engineering, HR and law.
Social Worker
A social worker works with people who have
been socially excluded or who are experiencing
crisis. Their role is to provide support to enable
service users to help themselves. They maintain
professional relationships with service users,
acting as guides, advocates or critical friends.
Social workers work in a variety of settings
within a framework of relevant legislation and
procedures, supporting individuals, families and
groups within the community.
Psychologist
Chartered Psychologists work in a range of
disciplines and settings including: Clinical and
Counselling Psychology, Forensic Psychology,
Educational Psychology, Health Psychology,
Neuropsychology, Organisational Psychology,
Sport and Exercise Psychology and Research and
Academia. Becoming a Chartered Psychologist
involves three years of British Psychological
Society (BPS) accredited postgraduate training
in one of the above disciplines.
8 THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY
Community
Development Worker
A community development worker works
together with a particular community or
communities to bring about social change and
improve quality of life. They are frequently
involved in addressing inequality, and projects
often target communities perceived to be
culturally, economically or geographically
disadvantaged. Typical responsibilities may
include helping to raise public awareness on
issues relevant to the community; providing
leadership and coordination of programmes;
networking to build contacts and fundraising;
and encouraging participation in activities.
RENEWABLES
An EU-wide study estimated that renewable
energy has the potential to create over 900,000
new jobs by 2020. Studying renewable energy
resources and sustainability provides essential
skills and knowledge to enter a wide range of
roles in a rapidly growing sector. Careers can
range from technical-level jobs in areas such as
design, engineering and planning, through to
research and development, consultancy and
project management.
RGU has gained its position as top UK
university for graduate employment through
close links with industry and other employers.
CAREERS & EMPLOYABILITY CENTRE
We have a dedicated centre with a team of
career consultants, offering a full range of
services to assist individual career planning,
job searching and employability needs.
Employers are keen to speak to our students
directly and to facilitate this we arrange oncampus recruitment and applications skills
presentations where employers can raise the
profile of their company and provide more
information on the opportunities that they
have as well as the benefits of working for that
company.
Full in-depth career mentoring and careers
guidance sessions are available to current
students. For more information, please visit:
www.rgu.ac.uk/careers
CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL
DEVELOPMENT (CPD)
Lifelong learning is considered to be an integral
part of personal development, and allows you
to keep abreast of innovation within your field.
We provide post-qualifying courses, teaching
and CPD programmes, delivered in a variety of
study modes. Find out what we offer at:
www.rgu.ac.uk/profdev
Fiona Feilberg
E: [email protected]
T: +44 (0)1224 263230
TAILORED DEVELOPMENT FOR
ORGANISATIONS
Our dedicated professional development
team can provide tailored CPD opportunities
to meet the needs of organisations, including
bespoke education and training delivered
in the workplace. We offer consultations to
help plan CPD activities, online and blended
learning for your business.
If you are responsible for the development of
your staff and would like to know more about
this service, please visit:
www.rgu.ac.uk/business-services
Professional Studies Framework
The Professional Studies Framework (PSF)
enables students who have successfully
undertaken modules and earned academic
credit to use that credit to gain an academic
award. For further information, please go to:
www.rgu.ac.uk/psf
postgraduates EARN MORE
masters graduates earn
more than undergraduates
over their careers.
9 THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY
APPLIED SOCIAL STUDIES
WORLD-CLASS
RESEARCH
UNIVERSITY RESEARCH THEMES
Business & Enterprise
Governance & Society
Information & Communication
Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health
Psychosocial & Mental Health
Environmental & Occupational Health
Energy, Environment & Sustainability
Creativity, Design & Innovation
Digital Technologies
RESEARCH At RGU
Universities, and RGU in particular, are
instrumental in driving fundamental changes to
the way knowledge is exchanged and utilised
by companies. RGU’s core philosophy is to
ensure that our output, from education to
research, is focused on delivering real-world
impact and clear commercial value.
We conduct multi-disciplinary, applied
research to solve real-world problems facing
industry. Our innovation services are available
through a variety of mechanisms including
consultancy, technology licensing, intellectual
property protection and knowledge transfer
partnerships (KTPs).
www.rgu.ac.uk/research
HEALTH AND WELLBEING RESEARCH
Our multidisciplinary research focuses its
activities on addressing major issues around
the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of
disease, and the care and welfare of patients.
Our Faculty of Health and Social Care
undertake research and studies in three key
thematic areas:
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health
- Psychosocial and Mental Health
- Environmental and Occupational Health
£1.1m project to find a
clean and effective way
of producing biofuel
using solar energy.
RESEARCH WITHIN THE SCHOOL
At the School of Applied Social Studies we are
committed to conducting high-quality research
in psychology, social work and sociology.
Examples of recent research activity include
child care, social protection, corporate social
responsibility in Africa, oil and gas companies’
social impacts, international risk, health
inequalities, self-harm and homelessness.
Thermal imaging of
Aberdeen city centre.
Our policy-based and theoretically-informed
empirical research reflects considerable
engagement with academic and public and
private sector stakeholders in local, national
and international issues. Innovative research
is undertaken within our academic disciplines
and in interdisciplinary collaborations within
the University and with other institutions.
We encourage specialised expertise in
research-led teaching within an inclusive
research culture that extends to postgraduates
and undergraduates. The success of this can
be measured by our burgeoning research
activities and the extent that research
underpins our highly-regarded teaching and
learning programmes.
Solving child care issues
in the 21st century.
10 THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY
11 THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY
APPLIED SOCIAL STUDIES
MSC Applied
PSYCHOLOGY
(PgCert/PgDip/MSc)
(subject to validation)
KEY DETAILS
STUDY OPTIONS
Full-time,1 year
Part-time/online, 2-3 years
START DATE
September
FEES AND FURTHER INFORMATION
www.rgu.ac.uk/mscpsychology
CONTACT
Katrina Forbes-McKay
T:01224 263211
[email protected]
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
Are you looking to develop a career in
psychology or further your understanding of
psychology – the scientific study of people,
the mind and behaviour? This MSc conversion
course in Applied Psychology, delivered via
distance learning, is designed to allow students
who do not hold an accredited psychology
undergraduate degree to develop the wide
range of subject-specific and generic skills
required to pursue a career as a professional
psychologist in practice or academia.
The course is designed to provide
comprehensive coverage of the core areas
of psychology required by the British
Psychological Society and provides an
opportunity for students to meet the entry
requirements for a postgraduate programme of
professional training in Health, Sports, Clinical,
Counselling, Occupational, Educational or
Forensic Psychology by achieving Graduate
Basis for Chartership (GBC).
PLACEMENTS AND ACCREDITATIONS
The course is to be submitted for accreditation
by the British Psychological Society (BPS) as
providing the Graduate Basis for Chartership
(GBC)
HOW YOU WILL LEARN
You will experience a supportive and
structured learning experience, with access to
a comprehensive online library of psychology
resources delivered via the University's virtual
learning environment facility (CampusMoodle)
and plenty of opportunity to interact with
tutors and other students. Learning will involve
online lectures, interactive discussion forums
and virtual classroom sessions. You will also
receive one-to-one support from a specialist
supervisor when you begin your empirical
research project.
Assessment methods include written
coursework in the form of essays and reports,
empirical research projects and a range of
online activities.
WHAT YOU WILL STUDy
You will study core modules in Biological
Psychology, Cognitive Psychology,
Developmental Psychology, Individual
Differences, Social Psychology, Conceptual
and Historical Issues in Psychology and
Research Methods.
The flexible nature of the course also allows
you to study an elective module in an applied
area of your choice. In addition, the final
research project, written up as a dissertation,
enables you to explore psychological questions
in a real-world context that are relevant to
your interests, experiences and future
career ambitions.
The modules will focus on Applied Psychology;
using knowledge of psychology to understand
real-world problems and create changes
in areas such as education, the workplace,
mental health and psychological well-being,
counselling, physical health and illness,
behaviour change, forensic and legal settings,
sport and exercise, and social problems such
as prejudice and discrimination.
Benefits to YOU
Successful completion of the MSc will enable
students to pursue further training as a HCPCregistered and/or Chartered Psychologist in a
range of areas such as, Clinical, Counselling,
Educational, Forensic, Occupational, Health,
Sport and Exercise Psychology or Teaching
and Research in Psychology. In addition
students will be eligible for entry-level
psychology posts such as Research Assistant
and Assistant Psychologist.
The MSc will also equip individuals with a
range of skills including the ability to solve
problems and reason scientifically, make
critical judgements and evaluations; ethical
awareness and sensitivity to contextual and
interpersonal factors; and an understanding of
human behaviour.
Such skills are highly valued by employers
and can be applied across a wide range of
occupations that involve work with people.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Studying psychology gives you a broad range
of skills that span both science and the arts
and opens up opportunities with a wide
variety of employers. Postgraduate study and
training is essential if you want to become a
chartered psychologist and to register as a
practitioner psychologist.
Jobs related to this qualification include:
•Clinical psychologist
•Counselling psychologist
•Educational psychologist
•Forensic psychologist
•Health psychologist
•Occupational psychologist
•Neuropsychologist
•Sport and exercise psychologist
•Research/Teaching in Higher Education
Major employers of psychology graduates
include: The National Health Service; local
and national government; schools, sixth form
colleges and colleges of further education;
social services; police forces, the National
Probation Service and prisons; human
resources departments; the media; marketing
companies; financial organisations and
commercial and industrial companies.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Applicants should have an Honours degree in
any discipline, with a final degree classification
of at least 2:2 or international equivalent.
All international students, for whom English is
not their first language, must provide evidence
of linguistic ability by gaining an IELTS score
of 6.5, or its equivalent, prior to receiving an
unconditional offer of a place on the course.
Further information can be found at:
www.rgu.ac.uk/english-requirements
APPLY online at
www.rgu.ac.uk/applyONLINE
12 THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY
13 THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY
APPLIED SOCIAL STUDIES
MSC Corporate Social
Responsibility and
Energy
KEY DETAILS
STUDY OPTIONS
Full-time,1 year
Part-time/online, 3 years
START DATE
September
FEES AND FURTHER INFORMATION
www.rgu.ac.uk/csrenergy
CONTACT
Sarah Buckler
T:01224 263236
[email protected]
In addition to their keen
interest in research,
staff are very helpful and
supportive of students.
The small class size makes
teaching and learning
interactive and this has
prepared me professionally
for the world of work.
Francis Xavier Tuokuu
Msc Corporate Social Responsibility
and Energy Student
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
All over the world, expectations about the role
of large corporations are changing. Today, the
performance of businesses is assessed not only
by earnings or share price – scrutiny is also
placed upon organisations’ economic, cultural,
social and environmental impacts.
The actions, policies and strategies that
businesses develop to consider these impacts
are referred to under the umbrella concept of
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
Because the energy sector is one of the most
global, profitable and controversial industries
in the world, stakeholder demands for CSR
strategies have been particularly prominent.
Ongoing disputes over community welfare
associated with the extraction of oil and gas,
the ramifications surrounding the 2010 oil spill
in the Gulf of Mexico and competition for new
supplies in politically fragile regions are vivid
examples of the need to connect the principles
of CSR with the business of developing and
delivering energy products.
In recent years, the energy sector has
become increasingly aware about the need
to pay greater attention to ongoing concerns
about global warming, social development,
environmental disasters, human rights and
business ethics. Consequently, the demand for
professionals who are highly informed about
CSR is growing as companies, governments,
regulatory bodies and NGOs confront the
multifaceted challenges and risks involved in
the extraction, production and distribution of
energy across the globe.
WHY STUDY WITH US?
There is nowhere better to study this degree
than in Aberdeen. Aberdeen is a global hub
for energy extraction and innovation. There
are over 3,000 energy companies in the city,
employing over 100,000 oil and gas workers.
No other city in the world can match Aberdeen
for the density and intensity of energy activity.
BENEFITS TO YOU
This course aims to provide you with the
necessary knowledge and skills to help
formulate and manage socially-responsible
agendas. In particular you will acquire
a comprehensive understanding of the
influences upon, and impacts of, the energy
sector, learn how to manage these impacts
and develop the capacity to provide
ethical leadership.
We will help you to achieve this through
exposure to a number of different disciplines
associated with the articulation of CSR. These
include business studies, cultural studies,
economics, engineering, political science,
research methodology and sociology.
YOU WILL LEARN HOW TO
•Provide ethical and effective leadership;
•Identify problems facing energy companies
under the umbrella of social responsibility
•Draw upon a range of sources to generate
solutions to those problems
•Develop strategic approaches to identifying
and managing socially-responsible agendas
•Apply conceptual frameworks in order to
enhance understanding about the impacts
of corporate policies
•Recognise and reconcile the demands of
corporate policies and stakeholder interests
•Forecast the positive and negative impact
of policies and actions in a manner that
reduces corporate risk
•Demonstrate the value of CSR in order to
better inform decision-making
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
There are a growing number of opportunities
for graduates in CSR designated sections and
related areas of the energy sector such as
community development, human resources,
project management, public relations and
strategic planning.
CSR expertise is also being integrated within
functions such as accountancy, business
development, corporate communications,
engineering, law, operations management
and scientific exploration. Hence the course is
designed to prepare you for middle and senior
management roles across the world in a range of
areas within oil, gas and renewable companies,
government departments, regulatory bodies
and NGOs.
In addition, there is scope for graduates to
pursue research on behalf of funding or energyrelated organisations.
RGU has one of the best records for graduate
employment in the UK. CSR graduate
employment prospects will be further enhanced
through the acquisition of applied transferable
skills such as critical analysis, decision making,
leadership, management, problem-solving and
research methods.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
You should have a university degree at Honours
level or equivalent, or at least 2/3 years relevant
work experience.
All international students, for whom English is
not their first language, must provide evidence
of linguistic ability by gaining an IELTS score
of 6.5, or its equivalent, prior to receiving an
unconditional offer of a place on the course.
Further information can be found at:
www.rgu.ac.uk/english-requirements
APPLY online at
www.rgu.ac.uk/applyONLINE
14 THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY
15 THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY
APPLIED SOCIAL STUDIES
MSC Energy AND
SUSTAINABILITY
(PgCert/PgDip/MSc)
KEY DETAILS
STUDY OPTIONS
Online, on average 3.5 years
START DATE
September and January
FEES AND FURTHER INFORMATION
www.rgu.ac.uk/energysust
CONTACT
Dr Joanneke Kruijsen
T:01224 262343
E:[email protected]
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
This course is designed to receive graduates
from a range of backgrounds (engineering,
business, architecture, environmental and
social sciences) and draw them into an
understanding of the full breadth of human
sustainability with energy as the core theme.
COURSE CONTENT
Compulsory module: Energy & Sustainability –
The Interdisciplinary Roots
Energy systems have much wider implications
than just how far we can drive or whether
the lights stay on; energy is a fundamental
component of our water and food resources
too. This course allows you to reinforce your
knowledge and understanding of sustainability
within your own field of expertise, before
inviting you to leave your comfort zone and
engage with aspects which will be new to you.
•Urban Environment and Social Regeneration
For example, Engineers may want to examine
behavioural issues, Environmentalists perhaps
need to understand business drivers and
Architects need to assess how residents may
interact with their structures. There are twenty
modules to choose from over the four principal
subject areas, plus the final project (required
for MSc). There is an initial introductory
module (Energy and Sustainability - The
Interdisciplinary Roots) that will be taken by
all students.
HOW YOU WILL LEARN
The Online Distance Learning (ODL) option
allows you to study from any internet
connection in the world.
In addition to their keen
interest in research,
staff are very helpful and
supportive of students.
The small class size makes
teaching and learning
interactive and this has
prepared me professionally
for the world of work.
Francis Xavier Tuokuu
Msc Corporate Social Responsibility
and Energy Student
You will be taught via our virtual learning
environment Campus Moodle. You will be
taught and supported by experienced industry
professionals using current standards and
fundamental engineering practices, which
allows us to recreate the same challenging
interactive format of the on-campus
programmes for those studying off-campus.
Students typically take up to 3 modules per year
and each module comprises up to 52 hours of
lectures and tutorials over 12 weeks of teaching.
Significant additional private study is expected
during each module.
Choose seven of the following modules:
•Corporate Social Responsibility in the
Energy Sector
•Building Sustainable Community Relations
•Renewable Energy Issues
•Oil & Gas Management
•Environmental Aspects of Oil & Gas Law
•Asset Life Cycle Analysis
•Design Management
•Existing Building Refurbishment
•Sustainable Development
•Building Science
•Low Carbon Housing
•CO2 Management
•Environmental Impact and Risk Assessment
•Sustainable Energy Resources
•Sustainable Energy Systems
•Security, Conflict and Energy
•Economic Context of Energy
Individual Project
In order to complete the full MSc you will
submit an individual project with an industry
focus, allowing you to demonstrate the skills
and knowledge gained through the course
along with integrating and implementing
research methods, whilst being of practical
relevance to the industry.
YOU WILL LEARN TO
•Apply your existing field of knowledge and
expand into other areas that impinge on
sustainability, be it technology, social issues,
built environment, business practices or
energy issues
•Identify, assess and justify robust
analytical techniques for application to
new subject areas. This course will give
you the capabilities and confidence to be
professionally more persuasive on issues of
global importance.
BENEFITS TO YOU
RGU has long-established strengths in the
areas of engineering, business, social sciences
and architecture, with a substantial collective
staff experience in sustainable practices,
corporate social responsibility and other
related fields.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Many companies and corporations throughout
the world are seeking to reduce energy costs,
improve their image and reduce risk to their
operations. The global challenges addressed
by this course are long-term, substantial ethical,
professional and technological tasks that must
be addressed by organisations of all shapes
and sizes.
WHO SHOULD APPLY?
This course is suitable for those who hold
an honours degree, or equivalent, in an
appropriate discipline at 2:2 or above. However,
we treat each applicant individually – if you
have appropriate experience and the academic
potential then we will interview you for a place.
All international students, for whom English is
not their first language, must provide evidence
of linguistic ability by gaining an IELTS score
of 6.5, or its equivalent, prior to receiving an
unconditional offer of a place on the course.
www.rgu.ac.uk/english-requirements
APPLY online at
www.rgu.ac.uk/applyONLINE
16 THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY
17 THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY
APPLIED SOCIAL STUDIES
SOCIAL PEDAGOGY
Working with Children /
Working with Adults
(DipHE/BA)
KEY DETAILS
STUDY OPTIONS
Blended Learning /
Distance Learning, 3 years
START DATE
January
FEES AND FURTHER INFORMATION
www.rgu.ac.uk/socialpedagogy
CONTACT
Patrick Walker
T:01224 263248
[email protected]
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
This course is designed for those in employment
and applicants are expected to be already
working in residential, day care or
community services.
Online workbooks and supporting materials
are delivered through the university’s virtual
learning environment CampusMoodle,
with core texts supporting the direct input
from lecturers.
Social Pedagogic approaches to learning and
development are becoming increasingly popular
in social care, day care and educational settings
in Scotland. Course delivery emphasises
wellbeing, learning and development and is
underpinned by humanistic values which view
people as active and resourceful agents. The
programme will equip you with the appropriate
knowledge, skills, attitudes and values required
to meet the changing needs of social care and
education in the 21st century across a range
of settings.
An ongoing reflective learning blog will be
created by students from the start of the
course and some assessments such as video
presentations will be posted online.
The BA Social Pedagogy course content will be
mapped to National Occupational Standards for
various sections of the social care workforce and
will be particularly relevant for those employed
in day care for children, residential child care
services, adult day and care home services and
community based support services.
Course entry is at Stage 2 (SCQF Level 8) and so
applicants will be expected to have attained an
HNC/SVQ (level 7) equivalent.
HOW YOU WILL LEARN
Students will attend lectures at seven 3-day
block periods of teaching at RGU over the three
year course, finishing with a final two day 'Janus'
event. The Janus event allows participants to
reflect and review and look forward to how they
will implement learning.
Experiential skills workshops will also take
place during university teaching periods, which
prepares you for formative work based activity.
WHAT YOU WILL STUDy
You will gain an understanding of social
pedagogy and specialist knowledge in human
growth and relationships by exploring the
significance of areas of practice and of the legal
and policy context.
Through a study of psychological, sociological
and developmental theories and increased
awareness of therapeutic approaches, you
will investigate concepts of citizenship and
community. Learning both academically and
in practice, you will gain an awareness and
understanding of major current issues.
You will be introduced to the limits of practice
in relation to working with children or adults by
studying therapeutic work, group processes,
interdisciplinary working, ethical leadership and
from the second learning in practice experience.
Specialist knowledge will be delivered through
academic learning and learning in practice.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Registration with the Scottish Social Services
Council (SSSC) for employment with adults
residential and day care; children day and
residential care services is being sought.
PLACEMENTS AND ACCREDITATIONS
Application will be made to the Scottish Social
Services Council (SSSC) for matching of course
content to the qualifications criteria
for social services workers in employment in
adult day care and adult care home services
and residential child care and day care of
children services.
There are two periods of learning in practice
each of 60 days. Assessment of work based
competence will be matched to practice
requirements as set out in the National
Occupational Standards for working with
children or adults in group care and day
care settings.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
This course is designed for those in employment
and as such applicants are expected to
normally be working in residential, day care
or community services.
All students for whom English is not their
first language must provide evidence of
linguistic ability, by undertaking the IELTS
English Academic Test, prior to receiving an
unconditional offer of a place on the course.
Further information can be found at:
www.rgu.ac.uk/english-requirements
Course entry is at Stage 2 (SCQF Level 8) and so
applicants will be expected to have attained an
HNC or SVQ 3 (Level 7) equivalent.
Applications for Stage 3 (SCQF Level 9) is
available to those with relevant qualifications
and work based experience.
A high level of expert lecturing support will
be provided throughout the course, based
upon considerable practice experience and
knowledge of social pedagogy.
APPLY online at
www.rgu.ac.uk/applyONLINE
18 THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY
19 THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY
APPLIED SOCIAL STUDIES
MSC SOCIAL WORK
(PgCert/PgDip/MSc)
KEY DETAILS
STUDY OPTIONS
Full-time, 2 years
Plus an additional 3 months for MSc
START DATE
September
FEES AND FURTHER INFORMATION
www.rgu.ac.uk/mscsocialwork
CONTACTs
Clare Swan
T:01224 263235
E:[email protected]
Alastair Logan, Admissions Tutor
T:01224 263227
[email protected]
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
A masters in social work will prepare you
for practice in the rapidly changing and
challenging field of social work; placing you at
the forefront of society’s desire to afford care,
protection, guidance and assistance to some of
its most vulnerable citizens.
Throughout the two year course, you will
explore a range of theoretical approaches and
develop practice-based skills that will enable
you to become an effective and confident
social worker who is able to help people to
make choices and improve their lives by giving
practical and emotional help and support to
individuals and families at times of crises.
This course will introduce you to the values,
skills and competencies required for the
practice of social work. It provides graduates
with the opportunity to train as social workers
to the standard prescribed as qualifying level
by the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC).
The higher exit option (MSc) is an
academic award based on research rather
than a professional award, and offers a
methodological underpinning for those
seeking to move into research or training in
social work. As a graduate of this course you
will be capable of gaining employment in areas
where a professional qualification in social
work is required, including field work, group
care, community care and hospital settings in
the public, voluntary and private sectors.
WHY STUDY WITH US?
You will join a group of approximately
35 students, which allows for group and
experiential learning opportunities.
The importance of
interpersonal processes
is emphasised because
fundamentally social work
is all about people and
relationships.
CLARE SWAN
20 THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY
You will be allocated a personal tutor who
will provide support relating to personal and
professional development throughout your
course. Tutors also have direct contact with
the practice learning settings you are placed in.
You will be taught by a large pool of academic
staff with a range of academic interests and
professional practice expertise.
BENEFITS TO YOU
The University has worked hard to build and
maintain excellent working relations with our
partner agencies in the voluntary, private and
statutory sectors in the north of Scotland and
in many other parts of the UK and Europe.
The links ensures that students have access
to a wide range of high-quality placements
and learning opportunities. The course
offers a multi-modal approach to teaching,
learning and assessment, drawing on the latest
technology as well as peers and academic staff.
AREAS OF STUDY INCLUDE
•Psychological and sociological perspectives
on the individual and society
•Methods of assessment
• Methods of engagement and intervention
•The importance of a solid ethical base for
your practice
•The relationship between personal and
professional values
You will learn how to
•Use research to inform and strengthen your
knowledge base and to guide your practice
•Understand the organisational context
for social work practice and the legal and
policy structures that underpin good ethical
practice
•Understand the processes of change and
how different life events and stages affects
need
•Communicate effectively with service users
and carers
•Communicate effectively with service users
and carers
•Carrying out structured and defendable
assessments as well as developing
and delivering recognised methods of
intervention
•Develop effective working relationships
with other professionals through practical
experience
PLACEMENT
You will undertake two mandatory placements,
one of 80 days and one of 90 days. You have
the opportunity to take the first placement
overseas in conjunction with a partner
university. The rewards are enormous,
in terms of initial professional development
and in applying theoretical principles to real
life situations.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
As a social worker, you will be working with
some of the most vulnerable people in society.
You will support your clients and work alongside
other professionals to meet their needs and
build their capacity. Our students have gone on
to work in a wide variety of settings across the
UK and abroad. Many of our past students have
gained employment in Local Authority social
work as well as with a wide range of voluntary
organisations that are often at the forefront of
service delivery.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
This course has been designed for students who
have a degree level qualification, preferably
in a social science subject, and relevant work
and/ or voluntary experience in a social work/
social care setting. Other qualifications and
experience may be considered.
An acceptable level of numeracy in Maths is
normally required, as is evidence of computer
literacy at the level required for the European
Computer Driving Licence. Some experience
in a caring or closely allied field is normally
required, as well as basic knowledge of the UK
legal and political system.
All international students for whom English is
not their first language must provide evidence of
linguistic ability, by gaining either IELTS 7 or its
equivalent, prior to receiving an unconditional
offer of a place on the course.
All applications should be made through UCAS.
www.ucas.com/students/apply
APPLY VIA UCAS
www.UCAS.COM/STUDENTS/APPLY
21 THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY
APPLIED SOCIAL STUDIES
HOW TO APPLY
Apply ONLINE
The quickest and most efficient method of
applying for any postgraduate course at Robert
Gordon University is to apply online at
www.rgu.ac.uk/applyonline
There is no application fee to pay to apply.
The exceptions to this are the MSc Social Work
and Master of Architecture Part 2, which should
be applied for via the UCAS website at
www.ucas.com
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
YOUR APPLICATION
‘Apply Online’ is quick and easy to use, allowing
you to complete pages in any order, and you
may save your progress and come back to the
form as many times as you like.
Supporting documents (certificates, academic
transcripts, references and CV) are required to
be uploaded at the time of application so please
ensure you have these available.
Download full instructions on making an
application: www.rgu.ac.uk/applyonline
CONTACT US ABOUT
YOUR APPLICATION
Our Postgraduate Admissions Office are happy
to answer any queries you may have relating to
your application.
[email protected]
Tel: 01224 262209
FURTHER
INFORMATION
ENTRY REQUIReMENTS
Most postgraduate courses from RGU
are suitable for those who possess a UK
undergraduate Honours degree or an
international undergraduate degree which is
comparable to a UK honours degree. Other
qualifications and appropriate experience may
be considered with entry and is subject to the
University’s judgement.
Applicants whose first language is not English
should refer to our website for information.
www.rgu.ac.uk/english-requirements
Certain courses may have additional conditions
for entry. Please ensure you check the
individual course information pages for full
details of what is required.
International students
You can apply directly via our online application
service or via one of our approved agents
worldwide. Our local representatives will be
able to advise you on our range of courses and
assist you with your visa application.
All international students looking to travel to and
study within the UK are required to have a tier
4 visa. In order to study at RGU you must hold a
Tier 4 visa under our sponsor licence.
For information relating to visits, visa
requirements, funding or for a full list of our
country representatives, visit
www.rgu.ac.uk/international
DOCTORAL RESEARCH
If you are interested in undertaking a research
degree and would like to apply to become a
research student, please visit:
www.rgu.ac.uk/postgraduate-research
[email protected]
Tel: 01224 262155
22 THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY
FEES AND FUNDING
How and if you pay your fees will depend
upon a number of factors, including if you
are sponsored, overseas, self-funded or
government-funded.
Fees also vary from course to course. Please
visit the individual webpage of your course
of interest to access the full fee information.
www.rgu.ac.uk/better
Visit the postgraduate finance webpage, for
advice on how to pay, installment options as
well as alternative funding opportunities.
www.rgu.ac.uk/pgfees
You can contact the student finance team with
any questions you may have regarding fees
and finance using the contact details below.
Student Finance
+44 (0)1224 262664
[email protected]
SCHOLARSHIPS AND BURSARIES
We have a wider range of course-specific
scholarships and funding, listed on individual
course pages on our website. Some of these
include, Merit, MBA, Talisman and Opito.
We also offer RGU SPORT, Scotland’s Saltire
and Carnegie-Cameron scholarships. Please
check our website for information.
www.rgu.ac.uk/scholarships
15% DISCOUNT FOR ALUMNI
We offer our alumni a 15% discount on
postgraduate course fees.
www.rgu.ac.uk/discount
STUDENT SUPPORT AND ADVICE
Our support services include counselling
and wellbeing service, disability and dyslexia
support, visa advice and study skills.
www.rgu.ac.uk/supportservices
Need a place to stay?
RGU has various accommodation situated in
the city and at the Garthdee campus.
www.rgu.ac.uk/accommodation
ABERDEEN – THE PERFECT LOCATION
Aberdeen is one of Scotland’s liveliest and
most dynamic cities. It's also one of the safest,
with an exceptionally high quality of life, rarely
found elsewhere.
Aberdeen is the perfect location. Vibrant
yet compact, with a golden sandy beach, its
within easy reach of mountains and stunning
scenery. The Cairngorms National Park offers
fantastic outdoor activities such as skiing,
snowboarding, hill walking, rock climbing and
mountain biking.
It is the energy capital of Europe, with major
energy companies headquarters based in
the city, as well as innovative and technical
specialist SMEs.
www.rgu.ac.uk/aberdeen
HOW TO GET HERE
For information on transport links, go to
www.rgu.ac.uk/transport
STUDENT LIFE
Discover what it's like to study at RGU.
www.rgu.ac.uk/student-life
For benefits and services for RGU Alumni,
please visit www.rgu.ac.uk/alumni
23 THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY
CONTACT US
+44 (0)1224 262209
[email protected]
www.rgu.ac.uk/better
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Consistently rated top UK University
for the employability of our graduates
98.5% of our postgraduates are in work or
further study 6 months after graduating
(HESA 2013/14)
WWW.RGU.AC.uk/BETTEr
POSTGRADUATE OPEN EVENINGS
other guides you may find useful
Our postgraduate events are held every February,
May, August and November. Don’t miss a great
opportunity to speak with Course Leaders,
see the campus facilities and ask any questions
you may have about applying or financial help.
www.rgu.ac.uk/openevening
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www.rgu.ac.uk/linkedin
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This publication is intended as a guide for
applicants for courses delivered by Robert Gordon
University. Please see our website for more
information. www.rgu.ac.uk/coursedisclaimer
Robert Gordon University is a Scottish charity registered under charity number SC013781