Exam board: AQA
Guidance: Grade 5 in either GCSE English language/literature, or a humanity. It is not necessary to have studied GCSE Sociology.
Course Start Date: 09/2021
Course length: 2 Years
Course description

Sociology is the study of society, and of human behaviour in society. We investigate topics such as education, poverty, globalisation and crime. We explore how people’s gender identity, ethnicity, sexuality and social class can impact on their experiences in society. We also study key sociological theories such as Functionalism, Marxism and Feminism, and study the research methods that sociologists use.

Do you find yourself wondering why the middle class performs better in the education system than the working class? Why some ethnic groups are over-represented in the criminal justice system? Why divorce has risen so rapidly? Why there continues to be a gender pay gap? What impact globalisation is having?

If you don’t take what you see or hear for granted, if you like to investigate problems for yourself, if you enjoy debating different issues and ideas, then sociology is for you. Studying sociology will help you to develop into a curious, questioning and analytical person. We aim to send you out into the world ready to challenge and change it!

Course units
Paper 1: Education with theory and methods Paper 2: Topics in Sociology – Work, Poverty and Welfare and Global Development Paper 3: Crime and deviance with theory and methods


Three 2-hour exams

What can I go on to

Sociology is a well-respected, academic subject, which combines well with other social sciences, humanities and languages. You will develop skills that are highly prized by universities and employers: critical thinking, the ability to analyse and evaluate complex information and reach conclusions, effective written and verbal communication.

A Level sociology can lead on to exciting degree courses such as criminology and anthropology, as well as sociology itself. It is a great choice for anyone considering professions such as teaching, nursing, social or market research, law, human resources, communications or policy work in government, NGOs or charities.

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