Ever wondered why some people are rich and others are poor? Or why people commit crime? Or why girls typically outperform boys at school? A Level Sociology will give you an in-depth understanding of the patterns and structures we see within society, and the forces behind them.
From race to criminal behaviour to poverty, you’ll examine topics and issues which play a prominent role in our everyday lives, and learn about the factors affecting these.
You'll need to meet the entry criteria for your chosen pathway.
For further information on the pathways, please click here.
The topics you will study reflect contemporary debates and topics that will resonate with you as a young person in this rapidly changing and globalised world. These include:
- Crime and deviance
- Mass media
- Culture and identity
- Education in Britain
- Research methods
- Sociological theory and perspectives
Educate, Enrich, Enlighten
Guided by our team of knowledgeable teachers, you’ll explore and debate a truly diverse range of topics, some of which you will likely carry on thinking about outside of the classroom – the way you view the world will never be the same again! You’ll benefit from trips and visits too which will complement your learning. Past students have enjoyed visits to London, a prison and various religious institutions.
You will also have the opportunity to represent the course as a Sociology Ambassador, which is an ideal way to grow your skills and prepare you for working as part of a team with people from all walks of life.
You will gain valuable knowledge and skills throughout your time on the course through a wide range of enrichment opportunities, combining your classroom learning with visits to a university sociology department, partaking in talks from visiting speakers or become a member of our Fempowerment group. Guided by our team of knowledgeable teachers, you’ll explore and debate a truly diverse range of topics, some of which you will likely carry on thinking about outside of the classroom – the way you view the world will never be the same again! You’ll benefit from trips and visits too which will complement your learning.
The assessment is 100% examination.
Sociology helps students gain written and verbal communication skills from writing essay, presenting findings, and making arguments in class. Students also learn how to use various research methods; how to gather and analyse data that’s qualitative (interviews, focus groups) and quantitative (surveys, statistics); and how to navigate the ethical issues involved in research.
The broad range of content covered in A Level Sociology means that it is a qualification that can help you to progress to a range of degree programmes, in particular those with a strong written and/or research-based element. Possible career areas for Sociology students include, Social Work, Policing, Teaching, Market Research, and really any profession where you are dealing with people.
What does this course go well with or what may you like?
News From the Department
Good to Know
In Sociology, there are no set right or wrong answers (within reason). You’ll learn to examine topics from a range of viewpoints, using various theories – giving you a real sense of freedom during your studies.
Where Are They Now?
Emily Kershaw
University of York to study Sociology
