Sociology is a subject that teaches you to ask questions about things people often take for granted, for example: ‘Why are some types of people more likely to be convicted of crime?’ ‘Why are the numbers of single parent families increasing?’ ‘Why do we have to stay in school until we are 16?’ ‘How has the ‘war on terror’ impacted on our lives and identities?’ ‘Why do people join religious sects and cults?’

The focus is on understanding the society around you. The style of learning is student-focused with plenty of discussion and debate.

AS Topics

UNIT 1  Introduction to Sociology
Culture and Identity (socialisation, culture, differentiation, power and stratification, including class, gender, ethnicity and nationality)
Families and Households

UNIT 2  Education, Sociological Methods
The role and purpose of education, trends in achievement, relationships and processes within schools. 

Research methods in sociology.

A2 Topics

UNIT 3  Beliefs in Society
Different theories of beliefs/ideology, science and religion.  Religious organisations  and significance of religion.

UNIT 4  Crime and Deviance, Theory & Methods in Sociology
Trends and theories of crime, crime control and the sociological study of suicide.

Research methods and sociological theory.

Where does it lead?

Sociology gives you the skills and abilities to be successful in higher education and the workplace.  It is particularly useful for a variety of careers including the police force, nursing, medicine, research, education, management, journalism, media, social services and many more.

Why you should study Sociology?

You should study Sociology...

• to better understand the world around you.
• to give you a broad subject knowledge in a variety of fields.
• to learn about carrying out sociological research.
• to develop your skills in analysis and evaluation.

What skills do I need to be successful in this subject?

A keen interest in people and the world around us and an enthusiasm to develop research, questioning, written and evaluative skills.

Assessment

100% examination at AS and A2.  There is no coursework element. 
Examination questions include structured multi-part and data-response style questions as well as essay questions. 

Enrichment Activities

Opportunities to attend revision conferences, seminars and speakers at universities.

Other Information

A textbook for AS and A2 is recommended as well as internet access for research.  Keeping up-to-date with current affairs is essential.  You will develop skills of independent learning throughout your AS and A2 studies.