Overview Who and what are human beings? Why are individuals and society the way they are? What problems do human societies face now and in the future, and how can we address them? Our BA Human Sciences degree is designed to enable you to answer these questions through examining the past and present of humans from the perspectives of both social and biological sciences. This unique, interdisciplinary programme covers a broad range of topics, from human evolution and genetics, to the development of human cultures and cultural diversity, all the way through to sustainability and the interactions between human societies and their environments. It is designed for those interested in human biology, the environment, social policy, politics, economics and society. The study of human behaviours –culture and society – is often set apart from the natural world. Yet humans, like other animals, have an evolutionary history and evolutionary forces continue to shape behaviour and culture, affecting the way we live today. Important insights can therefore come from studying humans in the same way as we study other animals. Also, many of the problems we currently face, such as the biodiversity crisis, climate change, or the conflicts which occur within or between countries, relate to how humans create, shape and interact with their natural and social environments. Solutions to these problems will come from insights generated from a number of different disciplines. Bridging the gap between the natural and social sciences, our BA Human Sciences programme allows you to combine exciting disciplines to make connections between biological processes, political and environmental issues and social patterns. It will enable you to understand relationships between science and policy and show how you may be able to facilitate decision-making in this context. The degree will encourage your curiosity about the human environment and how it functions. Modules are delivered by world leading academics in Biosciences and Geography plus you have the opportunity to select from a range of relevant modules in other disciplines such as Law and Politics. Cornwall is an exceptional place in which to study issues related to human culture, the environment and sustainability. The county has a unique cultural heritage with creative and resilient communities, and is a perfect living laboratory which offers a diverse range of marine and terrestrial habitats, and a wealth of natural resources. Throughout your studies, you will engage in field work and laboratory research exploring the social and natural science behind the complexity of human evolution, behaviour and social organisation.

Our BA Human Sciences will allow you to take full advantage of the growing demand in research organisations, industry and business for graduates who are able to work in the multidisciplinary environments of the future. The breadth of career opportunities open to graduates is vast, such as health, conservation, education, third sector work, culture and heritage and community work. With training in both biological and social sciences, your options are likely to be broader than from a more narrowly focused subject. We provide a range of support to help you develop skills attractive to employers. Visit our Careers and Employability web page for more information. The University of Exeter has an excellent reputation with graduate recruiters and our students and graduates compete very successfully in the employment market. Whatever path you want to follow after graduation, we’re here to help and support you with all your career and employability needs.