The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Social Sciences provides a solid training necessary to the understanding and analysis of social and cultural phenomena. The degree course follows a largely interdisciplinary approach and strives to explain both the general functioning of societies and their diversity.
The degree course in social sciences includes four main disciplines: social and cultural anthropology, sociologiy, social policy and social psychology.
Studies in the field of social sciences provide the epistemological framework and methodological tools required to understand the social environments in which individuals live. They thus allow to analye the behaviours of individuals in relation to their social living conditions from the perspectives of culture, economics and politics.
Easier access to the Master of Arts (MA) in the Study of Religions for students who have obtained a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Social Sciences at UNIL and have attended courses in social sciences of religions and in the study of religions.
Studying with the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences offers a wide range of options. As a result, graduates in Social Sciences work in a variety of areas, in numerous professional sectors.
Except for a few specialist areas that require qualifications in a particular field, graduates may move into sectors that do not necessarily have a direct link with their discipline.
Career prospects depend partly on the choice of Master’s course.
Areas of activity
Research in public or private-sector organisations, often in multidisciplinary groups
Local, national or international public authorities and intergovernmental organisations: project management, coordination and advice to authorities
Written and audiovisual information, and media
Surveys and market research
Cultural areas, for example, event management firms and publishing houses: event organisation and communications, management of cultural institutions, etc.
Human resources, marketing, advertising and public relations
Sociological surveys
Community networks: project management and coordination
Development cooperation
Examples of positions
Scientist, Social Work Department and Public Health Service
In figures
Every two years, the Swiss Federal Statistical Office (OFS) conducts a survey on graduate employment, one year after students have completed their course. View the results for social sciences graduates online:
Results of the survey for UNIL graduates specifically
Nina Rodriguez
Student, Bachelor of Social Sciences
How did you choose your studies?
"I've taken courses in a variety of subjects to narrow down my interests, including several in gender studies. The social sciences stream allows you to go in lots of different directions, whether in human resources, project management, journalism, etc."
After high school, I took a year off, during which I discovered my vocation and enrolled in social sciences for the following academic year. I'm very happy with my choice! The first year is very intense, with a lot of reading. That said, you soon realise that what everyone says is true: no, you don't need to read everything. There are things that have already been developed enough during the course, texts that you can share with friends, and so on. But don't go to the opposite extreme and read nothing!
I've taken courses on a variety of subjects to narrow down my interests, including several in gender studies. The social sciences pathway allows you to go in lots of different directions, whether that's human resources, project management, journalism, etc. It's a great way to get to know people.
I come from Neuchâtel and commute every day. On top of that, I work in a shop and do sport. So it's perfectly possible to have free time alongside your studies. In fact, it's necessary! Typically, in my first year I spent a lot of time in front of my computer, and now I realise that I could have gone and done other things, like sport or seeing friends, and done the same amount of work in less time, while being more efficient! It's a question of organisation, but above all it's something you develop over the semesters, as you develop a better understanding of how you work and what you need. The first year is often a time of exploration, and it's important to be indulgent with yourself. When you arrive at university, it can be a bit scary to have to work out your timetable, understand the computer system, etc., but in reality you adapt very quickly and you're well surrounded. I strongly advise you to follow the tutorials offered by our student association: they're reassuring, motivating and full of good tips! The teachers are also very good listeners and do everything they can to make things run smoothly.
The university really is a great place to meet people. It can be daunting when you first arrive, but you have to remember that in the end you're all in the same boat. There's a great atmosphere in the lecture theatres and most people feel comfortable asking questions (and all questions are welcome!). To develop your social life, there are plenty of events organised by the associations (joining an association is also an excellent way of meeting people), as well as a student bar, sports classes, etc. It's a very welcoming environment. It's a very welcoming environment, full of diversity and indulgence. Speaking of diversity, there are many opportunities for university exchanges. Sometimes you need a language certificate, but the University offers language courses. The counsellor is also very kind and helpful. There really are lots of opportunities on campus to take advantage of!
Exchanges and mobility
Going on a university exchange is a unique and highly rewarding experience, provided you prepare well. The first thing to remember is that you need to start taking steps well in advance. For example, if you're planning to go away in your 3rd year of a bachelor's degree, you should start taking steps at the beginning of your 2nd year at the latest.
