Sociology

Sociology A Level

Head of Department
Ms S Christmas

Why choose this A Level?
Sociology attracts students who are interested in current affairs and issues and in the society in which we all live. As with other Social Science A levels, this links in very well with other subjects because the topics covered in the course are very cross-curricular.

Who is eligible?
The syllabus assumes no previous study of Sociology at GCSE. Recommended Grade 6s in an English and a humanities GCSE (geography, history or RS). It is rigorous, and demands a dedicated and hard-working approach to the course if you are going to succeed. We like students applying for the course to have at least a Grade 6 in an English GCSE.

As well as producing written assignments, you will be expected to read regularly and make relevant notes, take part in class discussions, watch online content and prepare and present some aspect of a topic in class.

It is important to keep abreast of current affairs by regularly accessing news and watching relevant documentaries where appropriate.

Qualification Type: A Level (2 year)

WHAT IS SOCIOLOGY?

Sociology is the study of people in society. It is concerned with human associations and relationships in the institutions that affect our lives. Such institutions include the family, education, the police/judiciary, the media, religion and politics.

In particular, Sociology is often characterised with describing and explaining patterns of inequality, deprivation and conflict, which are a feature of almost all societies.

IT GETS US TO ASK QUESTIONS…

Why do some people commit more crime than others?

Why are girls now out-performing boys in school?

Will divorce continue to rise? If so, what are the consequences?

Who commits the most crime?

Is society less religious?

Work that sociologists do helps to bring into the open some of the serious social issues that are challenging our society, such as the cost-of living crisis or the long-term impacts of the Covid pandemic. They sometimes generate political discussions that dictate social policy and can lead to new laws that affect everybody.

Specification: Year 2026/2028 Advanced Level Award Examination Board: AQA

A-LEVEL EXAMINATIONS

EXAM 1: EDUCATION WITH THEORY AND METHODS

• 33% of the A-Level

• Written paper, 2 hours

• 80 marks

EXAM 2: FAMILIES AND HOUSEHOLDS AND BELIEFS IN SOCIETY

• 33% of A level

• Written paper, 2 hours

• 80 marks

EXAM 3: CRIME AND DEVIANCE WITH THEORY AND METHODS

• 33% of A level

• Written paper, 2 hours

• 80 marks

These qualifications offers an engaging and effective introduction to Sociology. Students will learn the fundamentals of the subject and develop skills valued by higher education (HE) and employers, including critical analysis, independent thinking and research.

This course is commonly studied with:
As an A-Level subject, sociology complements several other A-Level courses, including business, biology, history, politics, psychology, English and economics.

Future Careers:
Sociology students have gone on to careers as wide ranging as media research, law, journalism, teaching, social and welfare work, personnel work, business analysts, civil service and local government policy making, advertising, nursing, medicine and market research.