Overview:
The Human, Social, and Political Sciences (HSPS) course at Cambridge offers a flexible and multidisciplinary approach to education, making it suitable for students with specific subject interests as well as those seeking a broader academic experience. This comprehensive program consists of three core disciplines: Politics and International Relations, Social Anthropology, and Sociology, all taught by globally respected departments.
Cambridge prides itself on providing world-class undergraduate education with exceptional teachers and learning resources. The Faculty boasts two libraries, state-of-the-art teaching facilities, and access to the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, along with computing resources and a unique collection of ethnographic films.
HSPS students also have the option to change their course under certain conditions, offering flexibility in their educational journey. However, it’s important to consider the impact of such changes on financial support and to consult with the College admissions office for guidance.
This course equips students with the knowledge and skills to succeed in a variety of professional roles, making it a valuable stepping stone to a successful career after completing their studies at Cambridge.
| UCAS Code | L000 |
| Minimum Entrance Requirements | A-levels – A*AAIB – 40-42 points, with 776 at Higher Level |
| Admission Test for HSPSat Cambridge | All Colleges require: No specific subjects required by any CollegeSome Colleges require: A Level/IB Higher Level in at least one essay-based subject preparation: English (language or literature), History, a language |
| Subject Requirements – HSPSat Cambridge | Applicants to all Colleges are required to submit two pieces of written work prior to the interview. |
| Extras things admission tutors look for | Year 1 (Part I)In Year 1, you take four papers. At least three must be from the core subjects PoliticsInternational relations anthropology and sociology. Your fourth can be another core subject paper, or you can choose an archaeology, biological anthropology or psychology option. Years 2 and 3 (Part II)You choose one of three single-subject tracks, or one of five two-subject tracks Politics and Sociology Social Anthropology and PoliticsSocial Anthropology and Religious Studies (Modern Religion)Sociology and CriminologySociology and Social Anthropology Please note that it’s not possible to change track between Years 2 and 3, unless switching from a two-subject track to one of the subjects within it. Some final year papers require you to have taken a relevant Year 2 paper. |
| Duration | 3 years – BA (Hons) |
| Admissions Statistics | Application per place: 9Number accepted: 168 |
| What is HSPS at Cambridge? | The Human, Social, and Political Sciences (HSPS) course at Cambridge is a flexible and multidisciplinary program that allows students to explore a range of subjects, from politics and international relations to social anthropology and sociology. It provides students with essential analytical and critical thinking skills, multicultural sensitivity, and an international perspective, all of which are highly sought after by employers. Graduates of this course have pursued careers in research, the Civil Service, journalism, management consultancy, law, teaching, and numerous other fields, making it a valuable stepping stone to a successful career after completing their studies at Cambridge. |
| Cambridge Colleges that offer HSPS | Available at all Colleges |
| Structure of the HSPS at Cambridge | Year 1 (Part I)In Year 1, you take four papers. At least three must be from the core subjects PoliticsInternational relationsSocial anthropology and sociology. Your fourth can be another core subject paper, or you can choose an archaeology, biological anthropology or psychology option. Years 2 and 3 (Part II)You choose one of three single-subject tracks, or one of five two-subject tracks Politics and Sociology Social Anthropology and PoliticsSocial Anthropology and Religious Studies (Modern Religion)Sociology and CriminologySociology and Social Anthropology Please note that it’s not possible to change track between Years 2 and 3, unless switching from a two-subject track to one of the subjects within it. Some final year papers require you to have taken a relevant Year 2 paper. |
| Common Careers after HSPS at Cambridge | Graduates of HSPS at Cambridge secure opportunities in: Research (both academic and policy research)The Civil Service (including the Foreign Office)JournalismManagement consultancyNational and international NGOs and development agenciesLawTeachingPublishingHealth management public relations. |
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