A Level Sociology

Applications Open: - 3rd November 2025

Applications Close: - 31st March 2026

Entry Requirements: - Our Sixth Form entry requirements are five GCSEs at Grade 4 and above for the 'A' Level Pathway (in addition to some individual subject entry requirements) and 4 GCSEs at Grade 4 and above for the Vocational (BTEC) Pathway. The course information gives specific details of course content and entry requirements. Please also refer to the Sixth Form Prospectus for the specific entry requirements for the chosen subjects.

Students need to select the equivalent of 3 A Levels or more. (Triple BTEC counts as 3, Double BTEC counts as 2). Subjects are grouped into option blocks, please be aware that not all combinations are possible.

In addition to academic requirements stated above a place will be dependent on the receipt of a satisfactory school reference.

How to Apply: - Please apply via Kent Choices if you area a student from another school.

Please visit our website www.stanselmscanterbury.org.uk for more information.

“I have really enjoyed A Level Sociology – it is a completely different way of thinking about the world”

Course Overview

Students will study a range of topics which challenge them to understand the way that societies work. This course is ideal for those students who enjoy learning about the world in which they live and how they can contribute to it. It demands of students the ability to challenge their own understanding of human behaviour and the issues we face.

YEAR 1

Candidates develop a broad knowledge and understanding of the core areas of Sociology through a range of topics chosen for their accessibility and popularity.

Subject content:
Socialisation and culture
Families and Households
Education

YEAR 2
The specification offers a range of topic based options which bring together explanations from different sociological approaches and engage students in issues and debates in sociology.

Subject content:
Methods of Sociological Enquiry
Power and Stratification
Crime and Deviance

Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including Grade 4 in GCSE English Language.

Please note that Core Maths (1 year course) would be a beneficial addition to this subject (where Mathematics A Level is not studied) as it will aid the mathematical elements of the course.

Where can this course take me?

Sociology is a highly engaging subject that considers why people behave in the way they do in different aspects of society, for example, the family. It is a subject that involves debate and discussion; it enhances analytical skills and can be a stepping stone to a variety of different careers and further education.