AS Citizenship Studies

Citizenship

Why do Citizenship Studies?

What is it like to be a citizen of Britain? What does it mean to be British? How can I make a difference to society? If these questions interest you and you like debating current affairs and topical issues, you will enjoy Citizenship Studies. Citizenship Studies is a new and exciting course, which focuses on the rights and responsibilities British Citizens have and how these are protected. It is the perfect course to combine with Law, Government and Politics or Sociology.

What will I study?

This course is an AS course only, although, depending on the number of students who choose it, there might be a possibility of carrying it on into the second year. The first year units are:

Identity and Democracy

  • Identity: what does it mean to be British?
  • Prejudice, discrimination and disadvantage: are we all equal citizens?
  • What are my rights and responsibilities?
  • The legal framework: how are my rights protected?

Community Action and Active Citizenship

  • Political and economic power and the media: who can make a difference?
  • The electoral process and pressure groups: how can I make a difference?

You will also take part in ‘active citizenship’, which will involve you participating in a number of citizenship activities, including projects, charity work and the organisation of events. These activities can take place in the classroom, in college or within the wider community. You may work as an individual or with others, and the activity can be linked to local, national or global issues as appropriate.

Citizenship

The extra stuff at RSFC

At Rochdale, we have links with many local businesses, charities and agencies both in the UK and abroad. As a student of Citizenship Studies, you will benefit from these links and partnerships, particularly when completing the ‘active citizenship’ component of this course. There will be many exciting opportunities for trips and visits and the choice of these is very much down to you.

What can I do with Citizenship Studies after college?

Citizenship Studies offers a useful qualification if you intend to go to university to study subjects such as Politics, Law, History, Business, International Relations and Industrial Relations. It also provides a good foundation for anyone planning to enter a variety of jobs, e.g. the police, law, teaching, civil service or social work.

What do I need to do Citizenship Studies?

You will need to meet the normal college entry criteria for AS/A2 courses.