Sociology A Level
Sociology is the study of society and social institutions. Within each topic area we examine the role each institution has played in the past, its current role in society and its influence on society as a whole. We also examine how each institution influences groups as well as individuals. These ideas are explored from a range of different perspectives such as Marxism and Feminism.
Entry requirements
A minimum of 4 subjects at grade 5 or above at GCSE plus English Language at grade 4 or above. In addition, a grade 5 is required in either English Language, History or Religious Studies.
What will I study?
Key topic areas and examples of what will be studied across the two years include the following:
Year One
- Families and Households - What do we mean by ‘the family’? How have families and relationships within them changed?
- Education - Why do girls now outperform boys at all levels of education? Does the education system prepare young people for work?
- Research Methods - How can we study society and collect data? What are the advantages and disadvantages of different research methods?
- Methods in the Context of Education - Here we examine how can we use the different research methods available to us to study the education system. Are some methods more suitable than others when studying teachers or students?
Year Two
- Beliefs in Society - What are religions for? What impact do they have?
- Crime and Deviance - What is the difference between crime and deviance? Do men really commit more crime than women?
- Sociological Theory - How do different sociological theories and perspectives explain society? Are we living in a modern or post-modern era, what are the key debates around this?
Method of delivery
You will typically be in College four days per week and have 4.5 hours of lessons of Sociology per week. The course is mainly theory based, with plenty of opportunity in class for debate and discussion. In-College delivery is supported by online resources, enabling students to develop strong independent learning skills to equip them for their next steps.
How will I be assessed?
All assessment in this course is via examination. There is an emphasis on extended writing across the examinations.
Good course combinations
This course combines well with English; History; Law; Politics; Philosophy, Ethics & Religion; Media Studies; Film Studies and Psychology.
Your next steps
Sociology is highly regarded in a number of areas including nursing, law, policing, teaching, social work and journalism. Past students have gone on to study sociology, criminology, social policy & planning and anthropology.
“Sociology is interesting and fun, with brilliant tutors who guide you through the course with detail and fun activities. Learning about the social aspects of society gives you a wider view of the world and how it’s shaped you, but it also teaches you how you can cope in the world.”
