Welcome

The College of Arts and Social Sciences aims to deliver outstanding learning and teaching, in line with the University’s commitment to Curriculum Reform. In particular, our MA allows students the freedom to devise their own programme of study.  Choosing from a wide range of subjects, they are encouraged to explore new areas and are given the flexibility to respond to their broadening and developing interests by changing their study intentions at key stages of their degree programme. The unique combinations that are possible create a diverse and exciting curriculum that allows each student to develop their individual strengths and to fulfil their learning potential.

We are also working to increase the accessibility of our teaching, adapting to a changing learning environment that demands flexible and alternative delivery mechanisms. We are now offering more Level 1 courses part-time, with a range of Level 2 courses due to be offered in 2012-13, and are planning to launch a general MA programme which can be taken part-time and via flexibly-delivered teaching.

Beyond teaching, we focus on the whole student experience, particularly key areas such as retention and employability. We are working to increase student engagement with the University and with their programme of study from the moment they start at Aberdeen. Under CREF’s commitment to graduate attributes, we aim to send our graduates out with not only an academically excellent degree but also the transferable skills they will need in the workplace, such as critical thinking, effective communication, a sense of responsibility for their own personal development, and an awareness of their role as members of the wider community.

Last but not least, the continuing professional development of our staff is a key priority and new mechanisms will be established to encourage this. The College Teaching and Learning Committee will undertake a review in 2012 of what provision currently exists, and what new provision would be welcomed by teaching staff in the College. Members of College staff are warmly invited to contribute to this and all other CTLC discussions, either by passing comments on via their School Director of Teaching and Learning, or by contributing on the SharePoint Teaching & Learning discussion board.