Welcome to Sociology

A-level Sociology examines social behaviour, how it originates and then develops, and the ways that people are organised into groups according to distinctions such as class, gender and race. A-level Sociology also looks at the institutions and the forces which shape and are shaped by groups within society, such as the media, religion and education. We examine contemporary society, providing an awareness of the importance of social structure and actions in explaining social forces and issues. Some of the questions that A-level Sociology covers include:

• Why do boys underachieve in the education system?
• Why are black people five times more likely to be stopped and searched by the Police?
• Why are women more religious when religion oppresses them?

You will develop knowledge and understanding of the essential sociological theories and methods (Functionalism, Marxism and Feminism). Sociology will help you to think about society in a new and critical light, questioning the status quo and developing a sophisticated understanding of the real issues that affect the society that we live in. Students often comment that they didn’t realise how varied the human experience can be, and how powerfully a group identity shapes a person’s future.

Assessment

The Sociology course is comprised of three assessments, all of which are written examinations.

• Paper 1: Education with Theory & Methods
  This is 2 hour written exam.
• Paper 2: Topics in Sociology
  This is a 2 hour written exam.
• Paper 3: Crime & Deviance with Theory & Methods
  This is a 2 hour written exam.

Career & Progression Opportunities

Sociology is an essential qualification for a number of careers, including business management, counselling, educational studies, healthcare, journalism, policing, politics, sales and marketing, social work and teaching.

Entry Requirements

If you’d like to study Sociology, then you’ll need at least a Grade 5 in Sociology, plus 5 other GCSE qualifications at a Grade 5 or above.

If you haven’t studied Sociology before, then you’ll need at least a Grade 5 in English, and 5 additional GCSE qualifications at Grade 5 or above.

If you’d like to, you can download this information as a PDF file. Download the Sociology course information sheet (opens in a new tab) →