Sociology

Course summary

Sociology is for those of you interested in the full story behind the important issues in our society. From race and poverty to the internet and globalization – our society is out there and sociology can help you understand your place in it. This is a subject for anyone fascinated by the study of people, communities, and places, with an interest in how the external social world affects our everyday lives – and not always for the better. Successful sociology students are inquisitive, open to looking at issues and events from multiple perspectives, and can apply what they have learned to events and issues as they occur. You will need to be able to use your knowledge to construct arguments in the essays that you write and come to informed conclusions and judgments. Sociology A-level focuses on four main topic areas: crime and deviance, the media, education, and culture and identity. Underpinning all units is sociological theory which will encourage critical thinking and debate on the multitude of perspectives on social life. There is also a clear focus on the role of globalization and students will study a range of sociological case studies from around the globe. Students will also examine sociological research methods. The study of sociology will develop a range of skills: communication, interpersonal, analytical, statistical, cross-cultural understanding, and leadership skills.