Sociology A Level

Why should I follow this course?

Sociology takes a fresh look at the world around us and asks questions about social life which most people take for granted. Studying sociology will definitely help develop your essay skills, allowing you to discuss views on topical social issues in a critical and evaluative way. You will develop a number of skills by taking this subject, including an ability to see in a fresh way society around us and an ability to critically assess and understand social trends.

What will I learn?

Sociology is the study of society. You will learn about the importance of how gender, ethnicity, class and age influence us. You will develop a number of skills by taking this subject, including an ability not only to understand important changes to education, the family, crime and the media in Britain today but also to examine this material critically. The following are some key questions that we will look at during the course; How do you research street gangs? What is cyber-crime? How does your background affect your chances of success at school? How has childhood changed in recent decades? How are women represented in the media?

How will I learn?

A variety of teaching and learning methods will be used including teacher-led activities, small group work, personal independent research and discussion.  Role-play and class-based demonstrations may also be used. You must be prepared to study hard, engage with the subject both inside and outside the classroom, to read widely, independently and to practice your writing technique.

What can I do with my qualification?

A level Sociology is very good preparation for university, where strong essay writing skills are very important. Universities recognise that sociology A Level provides students with a very good foundation in social, political and policy knowledge.  Sociology is regarded as a demanding and rigorous A Level which combines with any other combination of subjects. Sociology students go on to a wide range of jobs in the media industries, teaching, business, medicine, advertising, probation and social services, journalism and public sector work.

What do students say?

“Sociology has helped me think deeply about issues and made me more aware of what happens in society”

“I learn something new in every Sociology lesson; it's different and supports my other subjects and helps me with everyday life”.