Sociology - A Level

Applications Open: Thursday 5th November 2026

Applications Close: Tuesday 30th March 2027

Entry Requirements: Please see specific course details.

Sociology is the study of society, including human interaction and behaviour. The subject takes a specific focus on a few ‘pillars’ of society, including the education system, the family unit, criminal justice and religion, all of which are covered during the two-year A level pathway. Students also learn how research studies are conducted and apply this to an educational setting in the Research Methods component.

Over the duration of your course, you will gain the following transferable skills:

· Analysis & evaluation

· Research

· Critical thinking

· Debate & discussion

Students who study Sociology often also study:

· Psychology

· Criminology

· English Literature

· Religious Studies

· History

Paper 1

Education

Theory & Methods

Paper 2

Families & Households

Beliefs in Society

Paper 3

Crime & Deviance

Theory & Methods

Year 12 examinations

Students sit Papers 1 and 2, each 1.5 hour and worth 60 marks in April

Year 13 examinations

Students sit Papers 1, 2 and 3, each 2 hours and worth 80 marks in November & February

The exams consist of short answer questions and extended writing questions

Entry Requirements: To enter the course, students must gain a minimum:

Grade 5 in English

Grade 5 in Maths

Grade 4 in Science

Sociology is a challenging, but rewarding subject that requires an ability to think critically as well as strong essay writing skills

Sociology opens the door to multiple career paths, a handful of which are:

· Law enforcement

· Forensic investigation

· Policing

· Social work

· Nursing

· Teaching

· Research/academia