Ruskin_College_Prospectus_2015_16__online_

Prospectus 2015 -16
Learning to make a difference

Ruskin College is approved byThe Open University as
an appropriate organisation to offer higher education
programmes leading to Open University validated awards.

Contents:
Page 04 What is Ruskin College?
Page 06 Why study at Ruskin College?
What can I go on to do?
Pages 08 - 09 Are there any requirements?
Page 10 How do I apply?
Pages 12-13 Support and Facilities at Ruskin College
Page 14 Access to HE Diploma,TUC Programme
and Short Courses
Page 35 Open Days
HE Courses
Pages 15-18
CreativeWriting
Certificate of Higher Education in (English Studies)
CreativeWriting and Critical Practice
BA (Hons) in (English Studies)
Foundation Degree in:Writing for Performance
Pages 19-22
Historical Studies
Certificate of Higher Education in History
BA (Hons) in History with Social Science
MA in Public History
Page 23-27
Law,Trade Unions and Business in the Community
Certificate of Higher Education in Law
Foundation Degree in Business and
Social Enterprise
BA (Hons) in International Labour and
Trade Union Studies
MA in International Labour and
Trade Union Studies
Pages 28 - 30
Professional Qualifications
BA (Hons) in SocialWork
BA (Hons) inYouth and CommunityWork
Pages 31-34
Social Sciences
Certificate of Higher Education in Social and Political
Studies
BA (Hons) in Social and Political Studies
MA inWomen’s Studies
www.ruskin.ac.uk 03
Disclaimer:
All details contained in this document are correct at the time of printing.
September 2014

What is Ruskin College Oxford?
Ruskin College is an independent college based in Oxford that specialises in providing educational
opportunities for adults with few or no qualifications. Ruskin welcomes students who not only want to
develop themselves but also want to put something back into society.
Founded in 1899, Ruskin College provides university-standard education for working class people so that
they can act more effectively on behalf of working class communities and organisations, such as trade
unions, political parties, co-operative societies, working men's institutes and so on. Our founders
understood that education is power.We remain deeply committed to the belief that education transforms
individual lives and societies.
For many of our students, financial, personal or social obstacles have made it impossible for them to seize
educational chances earlier in their lives.We understand that.We also recognise that, for many adults,
returning to education raises fears and anxieties, as well as awakening hopes and excitement. In our small
residential college, we aim to support our students through the emotional and personal difficulties of
learning, while helping them to give of their best, and to change the lives of those who want to fulfill thier
potential.
04 Ruskin College Oxford

Support through
partnerships.
Ruskin College, Oxford
offers a range of
Foundation Degrees,
Bachelors and Masters
Degrees through
partnerships with:
www.ruskin.ac.uk 05

Why study at Ruskin College?
Ruskin College has a proud history of supporting individuals to realise their potential and make a real
difference to their lives and the well-being of their communities.
Academic excellence at Ruskin: Ruskin offers highly qualified staff, who provide a supportive and
enriching learning experience that will take you to the next level in your career.
Clear progression to a degree at Ruskin: you can progress directly onto a degree programme at Ruskin
College (subject to interview).
Ruskin is a small, friendly and supportive residential college.You will be joining a community of
like-minded people, studying alongside other adults who have all decided to make a positive change in
their lives.
You will have regular access to a personal tutor to guide you through the course, helping you with any
stresses or challenges you may face, and keeping you to realistic targets.
You will receive personalised information, advice and guidance from specialist advisors on how to progress
to higher education.
A great place to live and learn.
Being a resident allows you to get away from it all and focus on achieving your goals.
Ruskin offers a great environment in which to live and learn. It benefits from a semi-rural setting
with local transport links.
Accommodation is of a high standard.
Teaching rooms are bright, spacious, modern and fully accessible. Computer facilities are plentiful
and freeWi-Fi is available to all students.
Our library is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
There is a social scene, with trips, events and activities organised throughout the year.There is a
common room withTV/DVD, and separateTV room.
What you can achieve after studying at Ruskin depends on the skills you have developed during your
studies.
Previous Ruskin students have gone on to become partners in law firms, screen and script writers,
social workers, journalists, youth workers, community workers, trades union officials, writers,
teachers and lecturers.The doors are open to many different career choices.
You could also progress to further study at the College or at another institution, local or national.
Why not come to one of our open days or subject specific taster days to find out what you can go on
to do?

Are there any particular requirements
to study at Ruskin College?
For a number of our courses, there are certain requriements that need to be met before you can begin your
studies, in addition to your offer conditions.
MA International Labour andTrade Union Studies
You have relevant paid or unpaid experience, including training/education courses, in organisations
such as trade unions, community, voluntary or political groups
You have knowledge and academic skills commensurate with degree level work
You have shown evidence of capacity for post-graduate study through providing a portfolio of recent
written work; for example reports, policy papers, funding applications, essays, etc
You have completed an academic case study analysis exercise and background reading to the
equivalent standard of a first degree.
BA SocialWork
You must have certificates to demonstrate you have GCSE Grade C or above in both Maths and English.
For non-UK students successful completion of IELTS Level 7 is required
You need to demonstrate a commitment to pursuing a career in social work.We expect you to possess
the appropriate personal qualities and aptitude to be a social worker
You must have work, voluntary, trade union or personal experience relevant to social work
You must clearly demonstrate a motivation to study and the potential for handling the academic and
intellectual demands of the programme and for meeting the required academic standard by the end of
the programme. Evidence of undertaking return to study programmes, for example an Access to Higher
Education Diploma, such as the one available at Ruskin College, is a way of demonstrating this
Application for enhanced clearance with the Disclosure and Barring Service is undertaken at the
beginning of the programme.

www.ruskin.ac.uk 09wwwwww.ruusskkiinn.aac.uk 0099
BAYouth and CommunityWork
You need experience in a youth and community setting; relevant life experience and a commitment to
social justice and to address oppressive practices
You need a passion for working with people and the ability to listen to others
Application for enhanced clearance with the Disclosure and Barring Service is undertaken at the
beginning of the programme.
MAWomen’s Studies
As this is a Master of Arts programme, students should come with either:
A first degree (BA/BSc/BEng etc)
Or
With some experience of community/Union/women-led organising (or similar)
Or
With experience of employment within the Union/charitable/public/women’s sector (or similar).

How do I apply?
There are several ways you can apply to be a student at Ruskin.
Apply online
You can apply directly on our website by using the link on the‘How to apply’page or at:
www.ruskin.ac.uk/apply_online
You can apply for any long course on this page and you are also able to save your information and
then return to it later before submitting, if you so wish.
Download a PDF application form
You can download a PDF version of our application form from the‘How to apply’page of our
website or at: www.ruskin.ac.uk/application form
Print this out, fill it in and return it to:
Academic Registrar
Ruskin College
Ruskin Hall
Dunstan Road
Old Headington
Oxford
OX3 9BZ
Request an application form
We can also send an application form to you.
To receive an aplication form in the post please contact:
T: 01865 759600
E: email enquiries@ruskin.ac.uk
Apply through UCAS
You can also apply through UCAS (not MA courses).
Click on the‘How to apply’page on our website which will give you full details of how to apply and
also lists the relevant UCAS codes for each available course.
If you are applying for the Foundation Degree in Business and Social Enterprise, you can only do
this through UCAS.

Support and Facilities at Ruskin College
Study Support
We provide excellent study support through our Learning Development team.They can help you improve
your study skills in:
Time management
Essay writing
Confidence building
Revision and examination techniques
Memory and organisational skills and strategies
Note-taking skills
Planning and organising written work through techniques such as mind-mapping, use of voice
recognition software, and so on.
Counselling Service
The Ruskin College Counselling Service offers an opportunity for personal learning and development.You
can talk about anything that is on your mind, it doesn’t need to be directly related to your studies. Sessions
are offered on a confidential basis and can range from a single meeting to several months of work.
Library
All Ruskin College students are entitled and encouraged to use the College library, which has some 40,000
volumes and over 150 journals, as well as networked computers.The library’s electronic journals can be
accessed from any internet-connected computer, on site or off site, using passwords. In addition, the library
holds DVDs, CDs and audiotapes of drama, literature and related materials.
IT Facilities
Students have 24-hour access to computers. Each student will have a Ruskin email address (that you will be
expected to use) and will be able to access journals and other on-line resources.The College operates and
maintains an intranet, providing both in-house and remote access to materials, such as electronic bulletin
boards. Students may also use the intranet to access their college email account and files stored in their
personal area of the network.
All teaching rooms are equipped with interactive whiteboards allowing access to electronic copies of class
notes, large screen video presentations and so on.There are timetabled drop-in computer help sessions
during term-time.
Parking
There is no student parking available at Ruskin Hall.
Alternative off-site parking may be available. Please contact us for details

Disability Support
With respect to students who have a disability or specific learning difficulty, the primary aim of the College
is to provide a welcoming and supportive environment within which the student’s educational potential can
be nurtured and developed. Support is given with applying for specialist help and equipment.
Higher Education students who have a disability or specific learning difficulty can apply for assistance
through the Disabled Students Allowance (DSA). For more information contact Elizabeth Ledger at:
E: eledger@ruskin.ac.uk orT: 01865 759646.
What Funding is available?
All higher education students (undergraduate and postgraduate) will need to pay tuition fees and cover the
cost of their maintenance whilst studying.Where you get financial assistance from will depend on the
course you are studying. If you are not eligible to apply for any financial assistance from the sources below,
you will need to fund your tuition fees and residence and catering fees (if applicable) yourself. Students are
responsible for ensuring that funds are in place before enrolment day, to cover tuition fees and residence
and catering (if applicable).
Tuition Fees and Residence and Catering Fees for 2015 entry can be found at:
www.ruskin.ac.uk/study/finance/fees_charged_by_ruskin_college
Undergraduate study - Student Finance England (SFE)
Full-time and all part time students at levels 4, 5 and 6 (subject to eligibility) can apply for aTuition Fee
Loan (to cover the cost of tuition). Full-time students may be eligible to apply for a Maintenance Grant
and/or Loan (to assist with living costs and may also apply through SFE for an Adult Dependent’s Grant,
Child Care Grant and/or Parent’s Learning Allowance.
You will need to make an application to SFE as soon as you have been offered a place.
Part-time students are not eligible for any maintenance assistance.
For more information see: https://www.gov.uk/student-finance/overview
Postgraduate study, Professional and Career Development Loans
Postgraduate students may be eligible to apply for a Professional and Career Development Loan. More
information can be found at: www.direct.gov.uk/pcdl
Postgraduate students may also find the following sites useful:
https://www.gov.uk/funding-for-postgraduate-study
https://family-action-trustsearch.org.uk/intro.aspx
http://www.princes-
trust.org.uk/need_help/your_next_steps_in_the_uk/alternative_sources_of_funding/funding_for_indi
viduals.aspx
http://www.postgraduatestudentships.co.uk/
www.ruskin.ac.uk 13

Access to HE Diploma
Many adults return to education after they realise that this will increase their opportunities.The Access to
HE Diploma enables mature students with no qualifications to get ready to apply for a degree programme in
only one year.
The Ruskin College Access to HE Diploma offers the opportunity to begin studying for a career in SocialWork,
Youth and CommunityWork, counselling, education in the voluntary sector, or other professional settings.
An Access to HE Diploma is accepted for entry to degree courses by the majority of UK universities and
colleges.
Living costs
If you are a student resident at Ruskin College, you may be eligible to apply for a bursary to cover the cost of
your accommodation and meals whilst you study for the Access to HE Diploma.You may also be eligible for a
small additional allowance each term.
If you do not live at the College during your studies, you may be eligible to apply for a bursary to help you
with your living costs.You may be eligible to apply for help with childcare if you have children (this is means
tested).
TUC Programme
TheTUC, in partnership with Ruskin College, offers training courses forTrade Union Representatives, Health
and Safety Representatives and Union Learning Representatives. Whether you are a newly elected official,
or have years of experience and want to brush up on new legislation, we would be delighted if you could
come and join us. Once reps have completed their introductory level training, we offer progression onto
diploma courses in Employment Law, Occupational Health and Safety, and the new Equalities Diploma.
For full details ofTUC courses available, go to: www.ruskin.ac.uk/course/91/1/Summary
AllTUC courses are free to members ofTUC-affiliated unions.
For any enquires, please contact contact:
Claire Roberts, Secretary to theTUC Centre on:T: 01865 759636 or E: tucadmin@ruskin.ac.uk
Short Courses
We have a comprehensive range of courses, residential and non- residential, in subjects such as
Assertiveness, IT, Social Psychology and CreativeWriting.We also offer Maths and English tailored to meet
individual needs. All our courses are offered at different levels to allow progression and can be taken in
bite-sized chunks of learning.
For full details of our short courses, go to: www.ruskin.ac.uk/short_courses

CreativeWriting
at Ruskin
In this section:
Certificate of Higher Education in
(English Studies) CreativeWriting and Critical Practice
BA (Hons) in
(English Studies) CreativeWriting and Critical Practice
Foundation Degree in
Writing for Performance
www.ruskin.ac.uk 15

Cert HE in (English Studies)
What will I learn?
The Certificate of Higher Education in CreativeWriting and Critical Practice will help you develop the
techniques and skills needed to write creatively, most specifically prose, poetry and plays, alongside
informed, analytic and close reading of a wide variety of literature.To enrol on our course you do not need
any prior qualifications, just the determination and desire to be both a good writer and a good reader.
Why study English Studies with us?
Our tutors apply teaching and learning strategies that acknowledge and encourage students’different
learning styles, and provide a balance between building core knowledge, and opportunities to practice
actively, question, debate and critically reflect
Our emphasis on seminars and workshops encourages you to interact with your fellow students, share
your experiences and enhance your communication skills, within a diverse peer group
Many of our students go on to study at MA level, and have achieved recognition in National Literary
Competitions, at the Edinburgh Festival, and as inspiring teachers in their own right
You will have ample opportunities to perform your own work, as well as participating in constructive
workshop discussions, where you are encouraged to consider the writer’s responsibilities as well as
techniques
On the critical side you will be introduced to a range of film/drama adaptations, as well as writing from
around the world.You will be encouraged to develop and apply key theoretical frameworks to your
analysis, including Postcolonial, Feminist, Marxist and Psychoanalytic perspectives.
Progress to a BA Hons. Degree
Take up a career in publishing
Continue to pursue your own writing, with information on how to approach publishers and agents
Engage in Participatory and Community Arts projects.
For full details of this course, go to: www.ruskin.ac.uk/course/75/1/Summary
o approach publishers and agents
ummary
16 CreativeWriting at Ruskin

BA (Hons) in (English Studies)
What will I learn?
The BA Hons (English Studies) CreativeWriting and Critical Practice is the natural progression route for
students who have successfully completed the Cert HE.The programme builds upon this foundation,
introducing critical perspectives via the study of Fantasy, Postcolonial and Modern Irish Literature in the
second year, and PostmodernWorld Literature and Narratives of Nation in the third year. Creative writing
includes in-depth practice in Drama, Poetry and Prose Fiction.You will also have the opportunity to devise
and complete research and writing in creative and critical areas of special interest, via the second year
Independent Study, and the third year undergraduate Dissertation.
Why study CreativeWriting and Critical Practice with us?
Our tutors encourage students’creative development and critical understanding, extending and
applying core knowledge, and supporting opportunities to practice actively, question, debate and
critically reflect
Weekly seminars and workshops encourage you to engage with editing and improving your own and
your fellow students’work and share your critical insights
Many of our students go on to study at MA level, and have achieved recognition in National Literary
Competitions, at the Edinburgh Festival, and as inspiring teachers in their own right
You will have ample opportunities to perform your own work, as well as participating in constructive
workshop discussions, where you are encouraged to consider the writer’s responsibilities as well as
techniques
“Abold,innovativeanddistinctiveprogramme” Open UniversityValidation Service.
Progress to MA, MPhil and PhD courses
Progress to a post-graduate qualification in teaching
Take up a career in publishing
Continue to pursue your own writing, with information on how to approach publishers and agents. Our
graduates have seen their work realised as film, world-touring drama, and published poetry and
fiction
Engage in Participatory and Community Arts projects.
www.ruskin.ac.uk 17
Please note:This programme will not be offered if there are insufficient students likely to progress
from the Certificate of Higher Education.

Foundation Degree inWriting for Performance
This course includes a Certificate of Higher Education as its first year
What will I learn?
In-depth modules, which include writing for theatre, film, radio and all forms of performance of the
spoken word
Guidance in pitching and marketing work using the full range of broadcast and social media
The opportunity to work in a range of places, theatre, radio orTV studio, school, library, hospital or
prison
A considerable amount of contact time with tutors. Full time students take two modules a term. Each
module runs over a whole day
A weekly tutorial to support your development.
Why studyWriting for Performance with us?
Covers all the major areas of writing for performance
Creates a closely knit group of people of all ages and backgrounds
Has no conventional entry requirements
Provides you with an extensive choice of industry work placements
Prioritises the application of performance in wide range of social settings
Is set close to a dynamic arts scene in Oxford with the entertainment and cultural industries of London
less than an hour away.
Writing for Performance, an intensely creative and practical course, will inspire you in a wide range of
disciplines and offer you hands-on experience in a variety of industry settings.
Students have gone on to be
Playwrights for theatre and radio
Screenwriters
Writers of stand-up comedy
Performance Poets
Teachers, facilitators and workshop leaders.
18 CreativeWriting at Ruskin
ummary

Historical Studies
at Ruskin
In this section:
History
BA (Hons) in
History with Social Sciences
MA in
Public History
www.ruskin.ac.uk 19

Cert HE in History
What will I learn?
This course is aimed at mature students with an enthusiasm for history.You do not have to have any prior
qualifications before beginning this course, but to progress to the BA (Hons) degree in History with Social
Sciences, you will need to attain 120 credits at level 4 in this, or another, relevant subject.
You will learn the skills that a historian needs to study history and will practice applying them.You will also
learn how to argue ideas, backing them up with evidence, and you will learn how to write essays.The
programme enables students to choose topics in different subjects, develop their own interests and think
more deeply about the role of the past in the present society.
The course is taught largely through group discussion and your own writing, using original materials.
Why study History with us?
History at Ruskin has a national and international reputation and many of our former students have done
exceptionally well in their further studies and chosen career. Because we try to develop students' own
interests and talents, and place a premium on students' own ideas and previous experience, our students
often excel when compared to those who study at other institutions.
Students who successfully complete this programme can make an internal application to progress onto
Level 5 of:
BA (Hons) History with Social Sciences
BA (Hons) Social and Political Studies.
Alternatively, this programme is excellent preparation for further study elsewhere (apply through UCAS) in
subjects such as History, Archaeology, Anthropology, Politics, Philosophy, Cultural Studies or Humanities.
Some students have directly gone on to the the second year (level 5) of a History degree course elsewhere.
Talk to the University you are interested in to find out whether they would accept you at Level 4 or 5.
Exceptionally able students may progress directly to an MA. Alternatively, this is a useful qualification that
can allow entry to a range of occupations, including heritage work, teaching and jobs in the voluntary
sector.
For ull details of this course, go to: www.ruskin.ac.uk/course/70/1/Summary
20 Historical Studies at Ruskin
mmary

BA (Hons) in History with Social Science
What will I learn?
The BA (Hons) in History with Social Science is aimed at mature students with an enthusiasm for history
who have already studied History or a related subject and who have 120 credits at level 4.The programme
builds on our reputation and decades of student success. It enables students to choose topics in different
subjects, develop their own interests and think more deeply about the role of the past in the present society.
The class of 2010/11 was shortlisted for a NewYear award on the BBC Radio 4 iPM programme, because of
the students’hard work and having battled against the odds to return to education.
The course is taught largely through group discussion and your own writing, using original materials. As
well as History modules, you will study one module each on Politics, Sociology and Economics, from the
Social and Political Science programme.This will give you a breadth of skills not normally taught on History
programmes.
This programme adopts an interactive, participative approach based on group discussions, hands-on work
with original materials and a questioning attitude. Emphasis is also placed on the value of working
together.We encourage you to use life experience and your own research within modules and
accompanying assessments.
Why study History with us?
History at Ruskin has a national and international reputation and many of our former students have done
exceptionally well in their further studies and chosen careers. Because we try to develop students' own
interests and talents, and place a premium on students' own ideas and previous experience, our students
often excel when compared to those who study at other institutions.
Students can apply for an MA at Ruskin in Public History, in International Labour andTrade Unions Studies
or inWomen’s Studies.
In recent years our History graduates have also progressed onto MA programmes at other institutions in
History, in Cultural Studies and in Social Science. Several History graduates have recently gone on to achieve
PhDs.
A History degree is not only useful preparation for work in heritage, museums and archives, but because it
combines attention to detail with broad analysis, it is also highly valued in a range of careers including
finance, IT and data analysis. History graduates possibly go on to the widest range of careers of any
humanities graduates.
www.ruskin.ac.uk 21

MA in Public History
What will I learn?
The MA in Public History considers the role of history in the public arena.We will discuss the relationship
between history and politics, debate the power of history in society, and evaluate the ways in which history
is presented to a non-specialist audience in small classes and one-to-one tutorials and via a student
placement in the public history sector.
The course is aimed at mature students with a passion for history, but does not necessarily require an
undergraduate degree in History.
Why study Public History with us?
Small groups, tutorials, and strong support resources allow each student to develop as an individual
Placement opportunities include the British Museum’s Portable Antiquities Scheme,The Pitt Rivers
Museum, the Oxfordshire Museum, and Bishopsgate Library and Archives
Thought-provoking and lively discussions
Access to fantastic resources, including the Bodleian Libraries, and lectures at Oxford University
Beautiful and intimate campus creates a positive atmosphere for learning and debate.
The Public History MA can enable you to develop your own interests and research projects in an academic
setting, with advice and guidance from highly trained academics and practitioners. Classes and assignments
will help you acquire skills that you can use to produce public history in a wide variety of settings, including
employment in the museum, archive, and heritage sector.
The placement is a vital part of this training, and is designed to allow students to gain experience and
reflect on the public history sector while also producing academic work.The placement provides work
experience and opportunities to network in a suitable heritage or public history setting, thus potentially
opening doors to employment in the sector after graduation.
22 Historical Studies
to allow students to gain experience and
emic work.The placement provides work
e or public history setting, thus potentially
/80/1/Summary

Law,
Trades Unions
and Business in the
Community at Ruskin
In this section:
Law
Foundation Degree in
Business and Social Enterprise
BA (Hons) in
International Labour and trade Union Studies
MA in
International Labour and trade Union Studies
www.ruskin.ac.uk 23

Cert HE Law
What will I learn?
The Law course is designed for those who are interested in law but may not have studied it before, including
those who are considering studying law at university and a career in law but don’t have the formal
qualifications to apply for an LLB (Law) University Degree programme.The course will give you an insight
into the law and its application in practice. Students will be taught how to find, read and understand
legislation, case law and other legal texts. Case studies are used to bring the law to life.
Students will develop their problem-solving skills in small groups and acquire legal reasoning and analytical
skills.There are plenty of opportunities for lively debate.The course will provide you with an extensive range
of skills which you can use for future study and employment. By the end of the course students will have
gained the necessary (formal) legal knowledge, skills and legal methods to study law at degree level.The
course has proved to be a successful route to, and preparation for, Law Degree courses for many students
who have studied Law at Ruskin College.We achieve this by being a small, friendly and supportive college
where our teaching methods give them confidence to learn.
Why study law with us?
We have an enriching and inclusive environment, since students come from a diverse range of
backgrounds in terms of age, ethnicity and life experience
We provide a supportive learning environment with our weekly tutorial system.This is a distinctive
feature of our course
Our teaching style is interactive and encourages individuals to contribute within sessions and to work
as part of a group
The opportunity to study with your student group for each module means that you learn from each
other and form helpful friendships
We have excellent library facilities (including very helpful staff) and well-established connections to
other institutions in Oxford.This, for example, means that our students have access to the Bodleian
Law Library.
Many students are unsure at the beginning whether a career in law is possible for them. During the course
of your time at Ruskin College, we will help you decide. Most students go on to further law study at
University. Some stay at Ruskin and progress onto other degree programmes here, e.g. Social and Political
Studies. Some go straight into employment, and a few choose further study in another discipline.
24 Law,Trade Union and Business in the Community at Ruskin

Foundation Degree in Business and Social
Enterprise
What will I learn?
The Foundation Degree in Business and Social Enterprise is a two year full-time/four year part-time
programme which leads to a Foundation Degree validated by Oxford Brookes University. During your study
you will develop leadership and management skills, look at business strategy and innovation, and
networking.You will carry out a social enterprise work-based project.
Why study a Foundation Degree in Business and Social Enterprise with us?
During the programme you will learn about the fundamentals of business and social enterprise, business
ethics, marketing and the historical and contemporary issues in social enterprise.You will develop your
critical skills and personal strengths while at the same time being supported with:
Teaching and learning strategies adopted by tutors to acknowledge and encourage a range of learning
styles, which provide a balance between provision of information and opportunities, and to assimilate
actively, apply, question, debate and reflect critically
Excellent preparation for employment or developing personal business ideas
Opportunities for you to interact with other students, share your experiences and enhance your
communication and networking skills
Opportunities to use the libraries and learning resources at Oxford Brookes University, which is a short
distance from Ruskin.
Our partnership with Oxford Brookes University will open your eyes to opportunities as well as helping you
make valuable contacts.The University will also enrich your knowledge and understanding of specialist jobs
and careers.
You will be able to explore your own unique entrepreneurial skills and build your own business ideas in
order to maximise improvements in human and environmental well-being.
Upon successful completion, students can apply to Oxford Brookes University for entry into the final
year of their BA (Hons) Business and Management, or progress to another institution to complete a
BA (Hons)
Work for NGOs and established Social Enterprises both in the UK and globally
www.ruskin.ac.uk 25

BA (Hons) in International Labour andTrade
Union Studies
What will I learn?
The BA in International Labour andTrade Unions Studies will give students the experience of the critical
study of labour. In particular, there are four main themes that are covered, Employment Relations, Law,
Sociology and Economics, and these are developed throughout the whole degree programme.
The degree begins with a module in Employment Relations in theory and practice, moves on to Labour in a
GlobalisedWorld at Level 5, and ContemporaryTrade Unionism in the final year.
The course is aimed at mature students with little academic knowledge of these subjects, but who are active
or involved in trade unions, community groups or workers organisations, and have a keen interest in
exploring these subjects in more depth.
Why study International Labour andTrade Union Studies with us?
The emphasis at Ruskin is on student-centred learning.The teaching methods employed vary according to
content and aims of the session.
A typical session will make use of different methods, for example, presentation/lecture by tutors, group or
paired work, student or tutor-led discussion and student presentations.
Teaching and learning strategies adopted by tutors will acknowledge and encourage a range of learning
styles.
Within these methods a range of strategies are adopted including critical engagement with written sources
and data, structured classroom debates, and guest lectures as part of the tutor delivered content
Progression onto the MA in International Labour andTrade Union Studies
Work forTrade Unions, Labour Organisations such as the ILO, UN,WEA, Global Union Federation
Some of our undergraduates have become national officers for trade unions. Some of our graduates work in
advocacy, trade union organising and trade union researchers.
For full details of the course, go to: www.ruskin.ac.uk/course/83/1/Summary
26 Law,Trade Unions and Business in the Community at Ruskin
al Labour andTrade Union Studies
ations such as the ILO, UN,WEA, Global Union Federation
ome national officers for trade unions. Some of our graduates work in
trade union researchers.
w.ruskin.ac.uk/course/83/1/Summary

MA in ILTUS
What will I learn?
Labour movements worldwide are seen as being in crisis and are actively seeking ways of renewal.These
issues are closely linked with globalisation and with fluidity among emergent transitional and developing
states and countries. Ruskin’s place in the labour movement, together with academic staff researching,
writing and teaching in the field, puts it in a good position to become a centre of debate and scholarship in
this project.
The Ruskin MA offers practitioners and scholars of such challenges the conceptual, analytical and critical
framework for understanding and explaining labour movement change.
Why study International Labour andTrade Union Studies with us?
We stretch student thinking beyond the‘envelope’to new and creative strategies of labour movement
renewal and transformation, and their own role and identity in this.
Debate issues such as:
Organised labour’s relationship with globalisation
Internal union democracy and leadership
Inclusively in relation to diversities across gender, class, age, ethnicity, religion, sexuality, disability
Cross national and cross cultural comparisons
Achieving praxis – theory into practice
Further post-graduate study. Many MA ILTUS students go on to doctorate-level study
Publish your dissertation research
Gain work for a trade union, NGO, charity etc.
Are there any particular requirements for this programme?
Please see page 10
www.ruskin.ac.uk 27
skin.ac.uk/course/84/1/Summary

Professional
Qualifications
at Ruskin
In this section:
BA (Hons) in
SocialWork
BA (Hons) in
Youth and CommunityWork
28 Professional Qualifications at Ruskin

www.ruskin.ac.uk 29
BA (Hons) in SocialWork
What will I learn?
In the first year of the BA (Hons) SocialWork programme, you will be introduced to Social Sciences and Law,
and how they underpin social work practice. In the second and third years of study you will undertake
practice placements and finally a dissertation.
Why study SocialWork with us?
The BA (Hons) in SocialWork is recognised as a professional qualification in SocialWork by the Health and
Care Professions Council (HCPC), endorsed byThe College of SocialWork (TCSW) and validated by the Open
University.
Ruskin has a sound tradition of providing social work education and training for mature, non-traditional
students. It works in partnership with other local social work programmes and local authority partners, in
particular Oxfordshire County Council, principally via our Practice Learning Centre.
We encourage you to reflect on your work and life experience as an integral part of your studies. Our class
sizes are relatively small allowing you to express your views, and your learning is further supported by small
tutorial sessions of up to 4 students in a group.
We expect the majority of our graduates to gain social work positions relatively soon after completing the
programme. Out of the cohort who graduated in 2013, 83% had found jobs by February 2014. Students
often find that employment opportunities arise out of their final placement. All of the above students were
successful in finding jobs local to their home area.
On successful completion of the course, you will be eligible to apply for registration with the HCPC which is
necessary to work as a social worker.
SocialWork Bursary
There will be a limited number of government funded bursaries for Level 5 and 6 social work students for
2015/16 but bursaries are no longer available for Level 4, which is the first year of study. All students at
Level 4 and some of those progressing to Levels 5 and 6, will need to obtain their own funding through
Student Finance England.
Please see page 10

30 Professional Qualifications at Ruskin
BA (Hons) inYouth and CommunityWork
What will I learn?
The BA (Hons) inYouth and CommunityWork will give you an insight into how the values and
principles of the service are intrinsically linked to the principles of anti-oppressive practice.The course is
aimed at mature students with prior experience of youth or community work, or of life experiences
which can enhance their understanding of youth and community work. It will give you a thorough
understanding of the core concepts, theories and approaches involved in the study of this profession
Practical fieldwork experience in a setting where you will be able to link theory to practice
Experiential group work learning and how to facilitate groups.
Why studyYouth and CommunityWork with us?
Teaching and learning strategies adopted by tutors will acknowledge and encourage a range of
learning style and will aim to provide a balance between provision of information and opportunities to
assimilate actively, apply, question, debate and reflect critically
Our passion at addressing anti-oppressive practice is unparalleled at a national level
Wide range of placement opportunities
Excellent preparation for employment
There are opportunities for you to interact with other students, share your experiences and enhance
your communication skills
Our partnerships open your eyes to opportunities as well as helping you make valuable contacts.They
also enrich your knowledge and understanding of specialist jobs and careers.
Progress to another institution or at Ruskin to an MA in a related field
Work for NGOs such as Oxfam, AsylumWelcome, Age Concern, theVoluntary sector or the local
authorities
Schools (exclusion units), parish or village youth provision
Health Care, Drugs and rehabilitation services,Women’s refuge’, Homeless projects
Youth Justice, Crime prevention, activity schemes, National Citizens service.
Please see page 10

Social Sciences
at Ruskin
In this section:
Social and Political Studies
BA (Hons) in
Social and Political Studies
MA in
Women’s Studies
www.ruskin.ac.uk 31

32 Social Sciences at Ruskin
Cert HE in Social and Political Studies
What will I learn?
This is a multi-disciplinary course that will give you an insight into how the three core disciplines of social
science, Sociology, Economics and Politics, explore, explain and interpret different aspects of social life.The
course is designed to help you understand the way society is structured, how political and economic power
is distributed, how and why social inequalities of various kinds emerge, and how they are reproduced.We
seek to address questions such as: who has power in society and how do they get it? How are global
relations of production and trade organised?Why does poverty exist?What drives racism and sexism and
what can we do about it?The Cert HE course is a standalone qualification in itself, although many of our
students choose to progress to the BA in Social and Political Studies.You do not need any prior knowledge of
Politics, Economics or Sociology in order to study the course. Many of our Cert HE students have little or no
previous academic experience and may have been out of education for many years – the course is designed
to provide such students with the skills and academic confidence they need to succeed in Higher Education.
Why study Social and Political Studies with us?
Develop your comprehension and capacity to analyse social, political and economic issues
Introduce you to key approaches and perspectives in the social sciences
Enable you to apply different theoretical perspectives critically to the analysis of social, political and
economic problems and debates
Develop your capacity for independent judgement, particularly in undertaking independent study and
research
Equip you with the personal and professional skills, knowledge and confidence to succeed in
employment or in further study.
Some students choose to progress, after their first year of study at Ruskin, to other institutions to
complete undergraduate degrees in Sociology, Politics, Social Policy and International Relations. Most
progress to the BA in Social and Political Studies here at Ruskin
Other past students have gone on to work for NGOs such as Oxfam, Age Concern and AsylumWelcome
Some have returned to previous careers in care, housing or social services for example in advanced,
managerial positions
Some of our BA graduates go on to postgraduate study at other institutions, including study for a
PGCE in order to enter the teaching profession.

www.ruskin.ac.uk 33
BA (Hons) in Social and Political Studies
What will I learn?
This course is for anyone who wants to equip themselves with a critical understanding of the core concepts,
theories and approaches involved in the study of society.The course is designed, in particular, to provide
students with the conceptual resources necessary to grasp the political, economic and sociological dimen-
sions of social change, from the local to the global level.The course helps students to understand the way
society is structured, how political and economic power is distributed, how and why social inequalities of
various kinds emerge and how they are reproduced.The course will be of particular interest to those who
want not just to understand and analyse society, but who want to do so in order to work toward changing
society for the better. Many of our students are involved in social and political activism of various kinds.You
do not need any prior qualifications in Politics, Economics or Sociology in order to study the course.
Why study Social and Political Studies with us?
Develop your comprehension and capacity to analyse social, political and economic issues and to
appreciate the relationship between theory and practice in research, policymaking and social/political
activism
Enable you to apply different theoretical perspectives critically to the analysis of social, political and
economic problems and debates in widely different contexts
Empower you with the motivation and independent thinking and learning skills to enable you to
become a lifelong autonomous learner and active citizen
Develop your capacity for independent judgement, particularly in undertaking independent study and
research
Equip you with the personal and professional skills, knowledge and confidence to succeed in graduate
employment or at post-graduate study.
Some students choose to progress, after their first year of study at Ruskin, to other institutions to
complete undergraduate degrees in Sociology, Politics, Social Policy and International Relations.
Some of our graduates go on to postgraduate study at other institutions - including study for a PGCE in
order to enter the teaching profession.
Other past students have gone on to work for NGOs such as Oxfam, Age Concern and AsylumWelcome
Some have returned to previous careers in care, housing or social services for example in advanced,
managerial positions.

34 Social Sciences at Ruskin
MAWomen’s Studies
What will I learn?
The MA inWomen’s Studies will develop your understanding of women’s lives in their diversity, globally,
historically, and in the here and now. Women’s Studies challenges long held views and traditions which
have excluded and silenced a broad range of other perspectives on experience and life. Students’
intellectual, creative and critical abilities are developed and personal change and empowerment is key to
the programme; these abilities are also used to advance the material and political concerns of the students
and women more generally. Women’s Studies attracts people from a range backgrounds and recent
experiences, work, community, family, who can demonstrate the ability to study at postgraduate level and a
commitment to the ethos of the programme.
Why studyWomen’s Studies with us?
Opportunity to learn with a diverse group of other students on a range of exciting and contemporary
topics
Class sizes designed to ensure one two one guidance and support and the space to develop and explore
your own ideas and perspectives
Wide range of teaching and learning strategies and flexible assessment methods designed to get the
best out of student skills and interests
Chance to think, discuss, debate, reflect and consider how social justice applies to diverse groups
Long historical involvement of Ruskin College with women’s movements which continues to this day.
PhD study at other institutions
Work or volunteering for a range of organisations in the private, public and charity sector
Enhance your existing career options.

Open Days
If you are interested in applying for a higher education course (not an MA course) at Ruskin College we
would recommend you attend one of our Open Days.
During an Open Day you will follow a programme of events that will allow you to find out about the College,
talk to the tutors who teach on the course you are interested in, speak to current students to find out what it
is really like to be a Ruskin student, and look round our new Headington site.
Attending an Open Day will help you to make a fully informed decision on whether you would like to apply
for a place at Ruskin College.
For 2015 entry we will be holding Open Days on:
Friday 12th December 2014: 11am start.
Friday 30th January 2015: 11am start.
Friday 6th March 2015: 6-8pm.
Friday 1st May 2015: 11am start.
Friday 29th May 2015: 11am start.
Saturday 20th June 2015: 11am start.
Wednesday 29th July 2015: 11am – 1pm.
If you would like to attend an Open Day you should book a place.You can do this by contacting
Hannah Jones at:T: 01865 759604 or E: hjones@ruskin.ac.uk
If you are near Ruskin Hall, you can call in and make a booking in person at Reception. It is up to you!
We look forward to meeting you.
We will also be running subject specificTatser Days.
For full details, go to: www.ruskin.ac.uk/study/open_days
www.ruskin.ac.uk 35

Ruskin College Ruskin Hall Dunstan Road Old Headington Oxford OX3 9BZ
T: 01865 759600 E: enquiries@ruskin.ac.uk W: www.ruskin.ac.uk
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Terms and Conditions
The courses of higher education described in this prospectus are those that Ruskin College expects to offer in 2015/2016. It is important
to note, however, that the courses are subject to availability at the time of entry and the contents of the prospectus do not form a
contractual obligation on Ruskin College to provide any course so described.The prospectus is prepared in advance of the academic
year to which is relates. Although Ruskin College will take all reasonable steps to provide the courses and services described it cannot
guarantee the provision of any course or facility. Any course may be withdrawn or altered due to factors beyond the control of Ruskin
College. Such factors may include (but are not limited to) withdrawal or reduction of funding, changes in legislation, lack of demand,
changes of personnel or change in government policy. It may also be necessary to withdraw or modify a course if it is deemed to be in
the best interests of Ruskin College, and/or present and future students. In order to ensure that students are taught the latest
developments in their field it may be necessary to modify courses to take account of new developments or practices. In the unlikely
event that it proves necessary to cancel the course or materially alter the nature of the course, then students will be informed as soon
as possible.
In these circumstances, Ruskin College will use its best endeavours to offer a place on another course as similar as possible to the course
previously offered. However, Ruskin College cannot accept any liability for any loss, distress or inconvenience caused by the cancellation
or alteration of the course. Contracts between Ruskin College and its students do not confer benefits on third parties. Ruskin College
cannot accept responsibility and expressly excludes liability for damage to students’property, transfer of viruses to student’s
equipment and errors or omissions from this prospectus.The fee and scholarship levels are subject to change and applicants are
advised to request up-to-date information prior to accepting an offer.

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