In 2001 the Bromley by Bow Centre and the University of East London joined forces to create an innovative degree programme in social enterprise. In doing so, they moved learning out of the university and into the community. With support from Leaside Regeneration and commitment from all partners, funding was secured through the London Development Agency’s SRB* 6 initiative, Communities in Business and Degrees of Success opened its doors.
Degrees of Success is a degree course with a difference.
On the one hand it’s an excellent academic programme that leads to a BA in Social Enterprise from the University of East London (UEL). But it’s also a community-based degree that is accessible and rooted in real life.
The part-time course is taught by lecturers and tutors from the university, but most of the classes are based at the Bromley by Bow Centre. Much of the learning also takes place in the student's workplace, as they study and write about the organisation they work in, or its work with communities.
Concept and philosophy
The BA (Hons) in Social Enterprise does not require the usual entry route of 'A' levels and examinations and welcomes students with a professional and life experience of working within their communities; who are looking to build their professional and organisational skills, increase their knowledge and sharpen their critical analysis. The theory behind the shift in culture is that experience provides learning, and, as experience is gained in the workplace rather than the classroom, it is appropriate for the course to be brought into the community.
Social Enterprise is taught by University of East London tutors, but much of the learning takes place in the students’ own workplaces and communities and in the Bromley by Bow Centre. The course is part-time and lasts 3 years in which students study the community and economic life of the UK and learn how to maximise their potential in socially conscious enterprise. In addition to academic support students have received mentoring and business support and expertise from the Bromley by Bow Centre enterprise leaders and through the East London Business Alliance from leading businesses based in Canary Wharf. Degrees of Success enables people to take a degree in Social Enterprise and to make extraordinary life changes both for themselves and the community.
Who is the course for?
The course is for people whose work connects them with local communities. We are looking for people who work for voluntary organisations and charities; housing associations and regeneration agencies; or simply a company that generates social benefits. The course is designed for people who have work experience but who may not have academic qualifications.
Our bursary scheme means that we will pay almost all of the tuition fees for eligible learners.
For more information, contact: Genefer Victorin on 020 8709 9848 basocialenterprise@bbbc.org.uk.
