Sociology

Applications Open: Open Now!

Applications Close: Wednesday 7th January 2026

Entry Requirements: Minimum entry requirements are 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, which MUST include English Language and Mathematics, plus any additional individual subject requirements.

How to Apply: Applications are only accepted via Kent Choices.

Sociology is the study of society and social behaviour. It is a social science that uses data from various sources to analyse trends in the way that societies are organised, including how groups in societies interact and the roles that institutions play in society.

Sociology also involves thinking critically and forming reasoned arguments using philosophical perspectives that attempt to explain social behaviour.

The A Level Sociology course covers:

• Education, including the role of education, social policy and educational attainment of different genders, ethnicities and social classes
• Families and households, including demographic trends in UK families, changes in the nature of family, childhood and the position of women
• Crime and deviance, including perspectives on why crimes are committed, types of crime and criminological research
• Beliefs in society, including the role of religion, types of religious organisation, and science and political ideology as belief systems
• Sociological theory and research methods, including perspectives such as feminism and Marxism, as well as factors influencing choices in sociological research design
• Current affairs and issues in society today, such as globalisation, social differentiation, culture and identity

Assessment takes place at the end of Year 13 and is 100% external exam (three exams of two hours each).

General entry requirements: Grade 4 in English Language and Maths together with 3 other GCSE grades at grade 4 or above is the minimum requirement to enter Hillview Sixth Form.

SUBJECT SPECIFIC ENTRANCE CRITERIA:

Students must have a Grade 5 or above in GCSE English Language and grade 4 or above in GCSE Maths. APS of 4.75.

There are numerous Sociology and Criminology related university courses. Sociology is also an extremely valuable subject for anyone thinking of working in the “people centred” professions e.g. teaching, social work, academic research, the police, law and civil service.