Sociology

Entry requirements

Entry requirements

An English GCSE grade 4 or above is needed to demonstrate that you are able to write essays to A Level standard so that your ideas, analysis and arguments are presented in a clear and compelling way.

A grade 4 in Maths will facilitate quantitative research analysis.

What will I study

The A-level course offers students the opportunity to develop the essential knowledge and understanding of central aspects of studying society and methods used to do so. It is designed to encourage debate about key social issues and engage with the way societies have changed over time.

Sociology is a social science that uses various research methods and analysis based on key theories produced by a range of social commentators, to develop your knowledge and opinion about the way society functions.

You will learn key concepts and theories that explain how and why society works in the way it does. Everything you learn is supported with current research and real life sociological studies. You will also debate issues and events in society as they take place, linking them to what you have learnt.

We encourage students to keep up-to-date with current affairs and sociological issues affecting the world around them, and widen their reading on the topics we cover. The course is taught in a dynamic and interactive way to encourage debate, critique and sharing and justifying opinions. Discussion and debate are key aspects of lessons and we will expect students to develop their own views and opinions in relation to what is being studied.

The topics covered in the first year include: sociological theories (key explanations about the way society works), research methods (how sociologists gather evidence and test their theories), crime and deviance (why people commit crime and their experience of the criminal justice system and education (equality of opportunities and the purpose of education). In year two of the A Level, students study international globalisation (how society diversifies and connects across the world) and families and households (different types of families and the way children are socialised into their society, including their norms and values).

How will I be assessed?

The examination takes the form of some shorter answer questions and extended essays, where you need to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of: research methods, theories and concepts, applying these to a range of social issues so that you present your ideas, make judgements and draw conclusions.

3 Papers: All 2 hours long - each contributing a third to your final grade:

1. Education/theory/research methods
2. Topics in sociology (globalisation and the family)
3. Crime and Deviance/theory/research methods

Note there is no coursework requirement to this course.

Is this subject for me?

Sociology is an ideal starting place to study a range of issues in society and discover whether you want to specialise in any of these at university or as a career. If you have always wanted to study criminology, then a key part of this course covers aspects of this, as well as incorporating elements of psychology, politics and law.

Sociology is a dynamic, evolving subject, connecting to your daily life and experiences - although it is a rigorous academic subject, it carries core meaning for you, as an individual, playing a valued key part in your society.

Where can this lead me?

Sociology gives an excellent grounding and solid understanding of the society and culture we live in. It hones in on various skills including analysis, interpretation, critical thinking, debate and discussion, which serve you well at university and are valued by employers.

At university, sociology can be studied as a degree on its own, or combined with other social sciences such as philosophy, politics, criminology, law or business.

Careers based primarily on a sociology degree include: Teaching, International Aid/Development Worker, Researcher, Social and Youth Worker, Police, Criminal Justice, Lawyer and Civil Servant. Sociology also provides the skillsets for journalism and marketing.

What else is there?