Sociology

Qualification   

AS Level (Level 3)
A Level (Level 3)                   

What does the course involve?

Sociology develops a range of skills, such as presenting a rational argument on an emotive topic and applying complex theories to everyday life. You will be able to place UK society within its global context as well as understand the significance of conflict and consensus, social structure and social action, and the roles of values.

AS and A Level Year 1 modules include:

• Sociology and Education
• Sociology of Families and Households
• Research Methods

In Year 2 (A Level only), you will study:

• Sociology of Crime and Deviance
• Sociology of Beliefs in Society
• Sociological Theory and Research Methods

Requirements 

You should have five GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade C (grade 4) or above; these should include English Language and Mathematics, although exceptions can be made depending on individual circumstances.  

Teaching methods

Students are taught in small groups; there is a mixture of discussion, group activities and written work, plus some active research. Students undertake lesson preparation tasks as well as formal essay ‘homework’ and exam practice. All course materials are available for easy access on our virtual learning environment, Moodle. It is not expected that you will have had previous experience of using Moodle.  

Assessment methods

Sociology is an exam-only subject; there is no coursework element. All students will be entered for the AS Level which consists of two exams at the end of year one. A Level students will sit three exams at the end of the second year of study, these will cover all aspects of the two year programme.    

Duration
One year for AS Level
Two years for A Level.

AS and A Level are separate qualifications but are taught alongside each other for the first year. This gives AS students the opportunity to switch to the full A Level if they are ready.

Where will it take me?

Many students will go on to study degrees such as Sociology, Criminology, Politics, Philosophy and Ethics, Media Studies or Journalism. Depending on the combination with other A Levels, others go on to study Psychology or Counselling.

The understanding Sociology gives about the workings of society, including demographics and social injustice, often leads people to careers in social and caring professions. Jobs such as journalism, social work, counselling and teaching are all possible future directions.