Sociology A Level

Why choose Sociology:

Sociology is an immensely challenging and exciting discipline. Its aim is to understand how societies work. The study of sociology fosters a critical awareness of contemporary social processes and change. It investigates the structures, relations and cultures of different societies throughout the world and throughout history.

You will explore specific examples of social action, social processes and institutions such as media and education; compare different types of social life; examine theories about the nature of social existence and change and study different methods of social research

In developing your sociological imagination you will analyse the various patterns found in a society; observe the day-to-day experiences of people in groups - workers, gangs, pupils, teachers, and seek to explain them. You will investigate substantive problems. What explains the persistence of gender inequality? Why do social norms change? What is the meaning and what are the causes of crime and ideas about criminals?

Sociology raises critical philosophical issues about how a society can ever be studied, and it charts social trends which may help us understand the dilemmas of modern life.

Skills and progression:

In addition to developing a deep understanding of modern society and the changes that occur, you will acquire a wide range of transferable skills such as the ability to write clearly and analytically about complex issues and to engage effectively in argument and debate.

As a subject Sociology has a highly regarded reputation with employers and universities.

Sociology is an excellent springboard to a wide range of professional careers. Graduates go on to work in fields such as the media; law; politics; management; research and the Civil Service.