Q-Step degree FAQs
Q-Step is an innovative and exciting UK-wide programme, and Exeter is one of the few selected places where Q-Step related degrees are available. The following questions have been asked by prospective students:
The BSc is geared toward integrating the development of research and data analysis skills (alongside a raft of other analytical skills that you would develop in the course of any degree programme). These analytical skills are highly valued by employers (including industry standard software). The development of these skills is what distinguishes the BA from the BSc.
The degree does not assume a pre-requisite in maths or statistics. The degree is first and foremost about Politics and International Relations. Students without a maths background will not be disadvantaged. During the course of the degree, students will learn how to critically evaluate and analyse data (employing such concepts as mean and correlation) but this is all within the context of substantive Politics and International Relations modules.
The modules with economics in the titles are core across a range of programmes and are not economics modules but Politics/International Relations modules taught by Politics/International Relations staff that address the role of economic theory in political phenomenon. One module, for example, focuses on how (and whether) rational choice theory (in its simple form that individual are motivated by economic self-interest) applies in Politics. Therefore, it is a very theoretical module.
Yes you can, as long as you successfully complete at least 60 credits of data analysis modules from an approved list; the centre administrator can help you with this. Learn more about our Proficiency in Social Data Science pathway.
Yes, you can choose across disciplines from an approved list of data analysis modules, the centre administrator can help you with this.
Yes, on the BSc as well as the BA, students will be able to undertake a semester or year of study abroad.
Starting in 2015, all-disciplines students successfully passing a minimum of 60 credits of data analysis modules may have the words ‘with proficiency in social data science’ added to their degree title. For example, students in History or Law will be able to enrol in Q-Step modules to complete the proficiency and have it designated in their degree.
SSI2002 Data Analysis in the Workplace has been designed to give you an opportunity to put in to practice the skills that you are learning on your course. As part of the module you will undertake a work placement of 3-6 weeks where you will get hands on data analysis experience. There is a wide variety of placements to choose from locally, nationally and in Europe, with a variety of public sector organisations, NGO’s and market leading businesses.
No, it is not compulsory but we would strongly encourage you to take advantage of the opportunity as it will enhance your academic learning, give you practical experience and start building your networks with potential employers.
We guarantee to find a work placement for any student wanting to take the employability module. As long as you are on one of the Q-Step BSc programmes, MSc Applied Social Data Science, or are undertaking 60 credits of Q-Step modules through the PADA, and your placement is providing you with hands-on data analysis experience, then you will qualify for a bursary.
What you do during your work placement will depend on the individual business or organisation that you undertake your experience with; however it will give you an opportunity to put in to practice the skills that you have gained during your course work. It will provide you with an opportunity to see data analysis tools and techniques being used in the real world.
Yes, you will. However, as some of the placements will be very popular, there may be competitive selection processes.
Yes, however you will need academic approval before starting the placement. You can contact the QStep Work Placements officer to find more about it.