Sociology
Course Type: A Level
Sociology is the study of society, including human interaction and behaviour.
The subject takes a specific focus on a few ‘pillars’ of society, including the education system, the family unit, criminal justice and religion, all of which are covered during the two-year A level pathway. Students also learn how research studies are conducted and apply this to an educational setting in the Research Methods component.
The Assessment
Paper 1
Education
Methods in Context
Theory & Methods
Paper 2
Families & Households
Beliefs in Society
Paper 3
Crime & Deviance
Theory & Methods
Year 12 examinations
Students sit Papers 1 and 2, each 1.5 hour and worth 60 marks in June
Year 13 examinations
Students sit Papers 1, 2 and 3, each 2 hours and worth 80 marks in November & March
The exams consist of short answer and but primarily extended writing questions
Skills / Employability
A-level Sociology is such a versatile subject to study and is in high demand in the workplace
Over the duration of your course, you will gain the following transferable skills:
- Analysis & evaluation
- Research
- Critical thinking
- Team building
Where could it take you?
Sociology opens the door to multiple career paths, a handful of which are:
- Law enforcement
- Forensic investigation
- Policing
- Social work
- Nursing
- Teaching
- Research/academia
Course Requirements
To enter the course, students must gain a minimum:
Grade 5 in English
Grade 5 in Maths
Grade 4 in Science
Sociology is a challenging, but rewarding subject that requires an ability to think critically as well as strong essay writing skills.
Additional Information
Students who study Sociology often also study:
- Psychology
- Criminology
- English Literature
- Religious Studies
- History