Sociology

Course summary

Sociology is the study of society and the way it shapes people’s behaviour, beliefs and identities. It covers the way society is organised and the impact of social structures, like gender, class, ethnicity and age. You will apply a sociological analysis to contemporary society, with a focus on health, the education system, crime and beliefs in society. The course also covers an advanced study of sociological theory and the application of sociological research methods to issues of societal importance. You do not need to have a GCSE in Sociology to study it at A Level. In Year 12 (AS) students study 2 Units: • Health • Education and Research Methods In Year 13 (A Level) students study 2 Units: • Beliefs in Society • Crime and Deviance & Theory and Method A range of approaches will be used, including formal classroom teaching, research presentations, individual and group work, discussions and debates and the occasional documentary. Students are expected to read widely outside of lessons in order to keep abreast of contemporary sociological debates. Many sociologists go on to find work in the public sector, including careers in Teaching, Nursing, Police and Social Work. Others find their career paths in areas such as Marketing, Law, Counselling or the Media. Sociology provides students with transferable skills, such as critical analysis, communication and independent thinking that are applicable to a range of further pathways.