Certificate of Higher Education in Social Sciences (CHESS)
The Certificate of Higher Education in Social Sciences (CHESS) is offered through the University of London, with academic direction from LSE. It is a qualification in its own right — and also the most accessible entry route into the full suite of Economics, Management, Finance and Social Sciences (EMFSS) undergraduate degrees at the University of London. For students who want to progress to a BSc degree programme but need to build their academic foundation first, CHESS is the ideal starting point.
Programme Overview
CHESS is designed to develop the analytical competence and academic skills required to undertake further undergraduate study in the social sciences. Students who successfully complete the programme are well positioned to progress into Year 2 of the University of London's economics, management, finance, and social sciences degree programmes — including those offered at PWC.
The programme is placed at FHEQ Level 4 — the same level as the first year of an undergraduate degree — and is awarded by the University of London. It is led by LSE as part of the EMFSS suite of programmes, ensuring the same standard of academic rigour as the full degree programmes.
What You Will Learn
The programme offers a structured curriculum that builds knowledge progressively across one year.
CHESS Modules (LSE Curriculum)
Principles of Accounting
Contemporary Sociology in a Global Age
Introduction to Economics
Principles of Banking & Finance
Statistics 1 & Statistics 2
Mathematics 1 & Mathematics 2
Business & Management in a Global Context
Academic Foundations & Skills
Disclaimer: The list includes a combination of certain compulsory and optional subjects (not limited to) offered under the degree, subject to fulfilment of the respective prerequisites, co-requisites, and university validation.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the CHESS programme are equipped for a wide range of pathways in business, finance, and beyond:
Pathway to B.Sc. Economics, Finance, or Management
Foundation for careers in business and economics
Ideal for building academic confidence
Entry-level business and financial roles
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. CHESS is a Certificate of Higher Education — a qualification in its own right, awarded by the University of London. It is not just a foundation course — it has independent academic value.
Yes. CHESS is specifically designed as an entry route to the full EMFSS undergraduate degrees at the University of London, including those offered at PWC. Students who successfully complete CHESS can progress into the degree programmes.
Students must normally be aged 18 or above. Entry requirements include one GCE/A Level (or equivalent) and 4 GCSE/O levels including Mathematics, OR six GCSE/O levels including Mathematics. English language proficiency (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent) is also required.
Yes. The selection process includes an application form, an interview with two members of staff, and written tests in mathematics and English. Full details are available on the Admissions page.
Students enrolled in the full EMFSS degree programmes at PWC simultaneously pursue a UGC-recognised YCMOU degree. For CHESS specifically, please confirm current YCMOU eligibility with the PWC admissions team.
