A Level Sociology

The study of the development, structure, and functioning of human society

Exam Board

AQA

Why should I study Sociology?

Do you ever wonder why social issues such as crime, poverty and prejudice exist? It is difficult to understand why the human race hasn’t managed to eradicate these issues after all this time. To put it simply, you will get a better understanding of mankind. Sociology looks at the relationship between people and the society they live in. You will study the development of modern-day human society and explore our identities and the cultural issues that affect us all.

You should choose sociology if:

• you are interested in finding out about the way yours and other people’s societies work;
• you would like to find out whether your background affects your views and beliefs;
• you want to carry out your own research projects to explain people’s attitudes and behaviours;
• you plan to progress into any profession related to working with people, children or legal matters.

Sociology looks at the relationship between people and the society they live in. It is a fascinating subject in which we take a look at the world around us and try to make sense of our own society and compare it to other cultures. It is a broad subject, but the knowledge you will gain is valuable in a variety of careers.

What will I study?

Throughout this course you will build on your awareness and understanding of social and cultural diversity in today’s societies. There are both compulsory and optional study topics on the A Level Sociology syllabus. During this course you will study education, crime and deviance, along with the theories and methodologies for these subjects. You will also have a choice of studying one of the following two themes:

• Culture and identity, families and households, health, and work, poverty and welfare
• Beliefs in society, global development, the media, and stratification and differentiation

How is A Level Sociology assessed?

Three 2 hour examinations, all equally weighted and covering the following topics:

Education: Discover the purpose of education and how to boost your own academic success

Research Methods: What methods are used in Sociological studies? Are there any ethical considerations to be made?

Families: Learn a number of different family structures and how family members” roles have changed over time

Crime and Deviance: Examine recent trends for victims and offenders and consider whether criminals are “born or “made”

Mass Media: Explore the new age of technology and the influences mass media has upon our everyday lives.

Viewpoints: You will also investigate different viewpoints of society including; Functionalist, Marxism, Feminism, Interactionists

What can I study with Sociology?

Sociology combines well with a wide range of subjects, since it will develop your ability to rationally debate a subject, allow you to understand different demographics and their individual needs, and enable you to look at arguments with an empathetic but level-headed view, supported by great social knowledge. In particular, it combines well with psychology, criminology and history.

Where does a qualification in Sociology Lead?

Sociology students gain skills which are highly valued both for further study and future employment. The knowledge and skills you will gain during your A Level Sociology course are very beneficial to a number of careers; in particular, social work, nursing and medicine. It is also a useful subject if you aspire to a career in marketing, PR, journalism, law or teaching.

Due to the research and writing skills you will acquire, it is a highly beneficial subject if you wish to study degrees in politics, philosophy, marketing, media studies, healthcare, and of course, sociology!

Minimum subject requirements

“Studying in the Sixth Form was a fantastic experience. The staff were all really supportive, wanted the very best for students and helped me achieve my long-held ambition of studying for a degree in Sociology.”