A level Sociology
Course introduction:
A level Sociology examines social behaviour from a variety of perspectives: how it originates and then develops, and the ways people are organised into groups according to distinctions such as class, gender and race. A level Sociology also looks at the institutions and forces which shape and are shaped by groups within a society, such as the media, religion and education.
Sociology will help you to think about society in a new and critical light, questioning the status quo and developing a sophisticated understanding of the real issues that affect the society we live in. It is an excellent subject for showing you how society works and for making you aware of the range of conditions that individuals within society experience. Students often comment that they didn’t realise how varied the human experience can be and how powerfully group identity shapes a person’s future.
Careers & skills
Sociology provides an excellent starting point for any social science degree from Economics, Psychology, and Politics to Criminology and Philosophy. You do not need to have an A level in Sociology to take Sociology at university, though it helps. A degree in Sociology can lead to many career options including teaching, advertising, research, marketing and business. Sociology is an academic subject teaching you transferable skills leading to many career options.
Assessment : Exam board AQA
3 x 2hr paper
A level Sociology is a linear qualification, which means exams take place at the end of two years.
Paper 1: two-hour exam on Education in Society, with associated sociological theory and methods
Paper 2: two-hour exam on two option topics (Families and Beliefs)
Paper 3: two-hour exam on Crime and Deviance, with associated sociological theory and methods
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