Subject sessions

For each subject, there will be a theme for the week. You will explore this theme through different sessions and activities.

These sessions are a great way to find out what studying a subject at university is like. You will meet academic staff, explore a subject in depth and meet others with the same interests.

The following subjects have been confirmed:

• Business Management
• Criminology and Sociology - Session now full
• English Literature and Creative Writing - Session now full
• Geography
• Health - Session now full
• Media Production, Film and TV
• Sport

Further information on subject sessions can be found below.

If you have any questions about Discover YSJ, email our Widening Participation team at wp@yorksj.ac.uk.

Business Management

Theme: Social Responsibility in Business

Across three days, we will explore core concepts related to social responsibility in business. Collaborating in teams, you will research, discuss and analyse how businesses navigate critical societal issues including sustainability, ethical practices and community support. You will engage with real-world business decisions, learning how companies are able to balance profitability with social impact to the benefit of both the business itself and society as a whole. 

These interactive exercises are designed to support the development of key skills which are crucial for tackling real-world business challenges, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Our hands-on approach will provide you with an opportunity to gain insight into university level study as well as supporting you to make core decisions that will shape your future ambitions.

Criminology and Sociology

Theme: Crime, Deviance, and Inequalities

In this subject strand, we will engage with key questions linked to crime, deviance and social structures, such as what defines criminal behaviour, and how does society respond to it? We will examine the impact of crime on victims, family members and the wider community, and also reflect on the effectiveness of the different responses to criminal and/or deviant actions.

Through interactive discussion, we will explore social inequalities and investigate how they shape individuals’ experiences within society and their interactions with the criminal justice system. You will also have the opportunity to conduct a piece of independent research into a criminological and/or sociological topic of your choice linked to the themes of the week.

Places on our Criminology and Sociology subject strand are now full.

English Literature and Creative Writing

Theme: Why Do Words Matter?

Are you passionate about the power, beauty and importance of words? A degree in English Literature, Creative Writing, or both, might be for you! Join us to explore, interrogate and play with literary language in different ways.

Our Creative Writing workshops will introduce you to exciting writing techniques. Discover new ways to find stories and images, develop your unique style and produce writing that transforms your readers’ understanding of the world. Experiment with these techniques to begin writing your own poetry or prose.
In Literature sessions you will read and discuss short pieces of compelling writing to hone your powers of close analysis and reveal the rich and multiple meanings of literary language.

The Creative Writing and Literature teaching teams would love to share their passion for the very related activities of reading and writing with you. Come along and let us convince you why words matter.

Places on our English Literature and Creative Writing subject strand are now full.

Geography

Theme: Everyday Geographies

Geography is all around us, part of how we live and make sense of our lives. During your time with us, you will have the opportunity to explore some core geographical themes such as space, place and environment in the context of living, working and studying in the everyday surroundings of the city.  

This could include, for example:  

• Considering how we manage the relationship between cities and river processes and ecologies;.
• Investigating how tourism and heritage activities promote certain ‘versions’ of places.
• Looking at the politics of cultural identity in public spaces. 

At the end of the week, you will showcase what you have learned by presenting a creative map to illustrate aspects of everyday human and physical geographies. This will draw on the taught sessions and your own observations made during a short field trip around York. 

Health

Theme: Exploring Healthcare Horizons 

Experience a glimpse into the vibrant world of healthcare education at York St John University, where you will delve into the diverse realms of Biomedical Science and Nursing. Gain hands-on exposure with these healthcare professions. Learn from experts in the field, explore our cutting-edge facilities, and envision your future as a health professional. Discover hidden talents, cultivate resilience, and ignite your passion for making a difference in the lives of others.  
 
A pivotal aspect of this residential experience is the emphasis on multidisciplinary collaboration and interprofessional learning. Through interactive activities and discussions, you will grasp the interconnectedness of healthcare disciplines and the paramount importance of patient-centred care. Don't miss this opportunity to embark on a fulfilling career where your skills could truly change lives. 

Places on our Health subject strand are now full.

Media Production, Film and TV

Theme: Creative Production of a Live Studio Show

Experience what it is like to study and practice Film & Television Production and Media Production at York St John University. Across three days, you will take part in the hands-on practical development and production of a live TV studio show, immersing yourself in collaborative practice and processes to bring your creative ideas to life.

Working together as part of a production crew whilst taking on individual roles and responsibilities, your team will conceive, develop and produce a live magazine-style TV show. This is a challenging and fun opportunity to learn about the workings of a TV studio and how shows are put together through engaging with a range of technical, logistical and creative processes. 

By the end of the strand, you will have created a dynamic, magazine-style TV show, developing practical skills in teamwork, problem-solving, media production and critical analysis along the way.

Sport

Theme: Sport in Action 

Gain an insight into the dynamic world of sport and exercise science, therapy and physical education. Here at York St John University, we are interested in helping athletes to perform better, recover faster and train more effectively. We look to explore how sport and exercise can improve the health of the general public, challenge social inequality and prejudice, and how we can ensure that everyone benefits from sport regardless of their background. 

Across the sessions, we will give you a flavour of the student learning opportunities on offer here with us. You will take part in informative, interesting, and interactive tasters crammed with cool tech and contemporary teaching techniques in the areas of sport and exercise science, sport and exercise therapy, and physical education and coaching. 

Whether you’re interested in enhancing athletic performance or understanding the wider impact of sport on society, this strand will provide a fascinating and hands-on experience of the field.