Bournemouth University are seeking applications to undertake the role of Head of Department for Social Science and Social Work with effect from January 2024. The Department of Social Science and Social Work is situated within the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences (HSS). The department has an established reputation for providing student-centred, innovative programmes of education that prepares students to serve and enrich society following their training in a range of subjects in social sciences and social care.
The interlocking suite of social sciences programmes consists of BA (Hons.) in Criminology; Sociology; Sociology and Criminology; Sociology and Social Anthropology; and, in collaboration with Departments outside the Faculty, Criminology with Law and Criminology with Psychology. In recent years, we have engaged in a very successful expansion of these programmes, which have seen a significant increase in student numbers. We currently have approximately 590 undergraduate students, up from 230 five years ago. The Department has appointed a number of lecturers to keep pace with growing student numbers, particularly in the social sciences. Student satisfaction with our teaching is impressive. The Department has attained the highest overall NSS student satisfaction score in Bournemouth University for the last two years.
We also teach pre-qualifying social work at both BA and MA levels. Our social work programmes are considerably smaller, our numbers being restricted being restricted by the availability of placements. However, the quality of these programmes is outstanding. Our BA Social Work has been ranked first in the Guardian Best UK Universities Rankings twice since 2020.
The Department also provides a diverse portfolio of Continuing Professional Development opportunities. While these have traditionally been confined to the discipline of social work, as part of the faculty mission to recognise the importance of connecting social and health care, we are increasingly expanding our provision to address the needs of other professions. Reflecting this, we have recently changed the title of our prestigious National Centre for Post-Qualifying Social Work to the National Centre for Centre for Cross Disciplinary Social Work.
We have a very healthy research culture led by our Centre for Seldom Heard Voices and an active Professoriate with dynamic early career researchers who are actively applying for external research funding. Research activity of staff is such that we have consistently exceeded the University’s stretch targets for research earnings.
As the Head of Department, you will manage, lead, and effectively deploy a team of academic staff who individually and collectively contribute to the on-going development of an academically stimulating environment aligned to the strategic direction of a truly interdisciplinary Faculty. You will be supported in your role by Deputy Heads of Department.