Entry Requirements

GCSE English, History, Geography or Religious Studies at grade 5 or higher. 

Exam Board: AQA

Why Study Sociology?

If you're curious about human behaviour and the intricate workings of society, then A-level Sociology is for you. This subject isn't just about memorising facts; it's about becoming a social investigator, honing your analytical and research skills – abilities that are invaluable in any career. Choosing to study A-level Sociology with AQA is choosing to gain a profound understanding of the world around you. This subject equips you with the tools to critically examine the complex social issues, cultural trends, and deep-rooted inequalities that shape our societies. You'll develop essential critical thinking skills, learning to question assumptions, analyse evidence, and form well-informed opinions on everything from crime and deviance to family structures and education.

If you enjoy taking part in lively and informed debates about the complex issues that dominate local, national, and international society, then Sociology could be the perfect subject for you. It's a field that encourages you not just to observe, but to critically engage with, and ultimately contribute to, the world we live in.

What Topics Will I Study?

Paper 1: Education with Theory and Methods

• This unit explores the role of the education system in wider society. Sociologists argue that schooling involves more than just academic subjects; it also teaches students how to be obedient citizens and respectful of authority. You'll investigate who benefits from this system, why girls outperform boys in school but typically earn less, and debate whether government policies have improved educational outcomes.

• In the Theory and Methods section, you'll study how sociologists conduct research and gather evidence using methods like interviews, observations, questionnaires, case studies, and document analysis. You'll assess the usefulness of these different approaches, considering, for example, the challenge of researching gangs in a city like Glasgow.

Paper 2: Topics in Sociology Families and Households

• Families and Households: The family is a fundamental social institution, crucial for primary socialisation (learning norms, values, and roles). You'll examine differing sociological views on the family's role. Is it to prepare members for successful integration into wider society, or does it perform an ideological function that maintains an exploitative relationship between social classes? Does the family structure benefit men and women equally? The unit addresses how factors like sexuality, ethnicity, social class, and changing social expectations have contributed to the rise of a more negotiable and fluid modern family structure, moving away from the traditional model.

• Media: The media increasingly shapes our perceptions, influences our identities, and acts as a powerful agent of secondary socialisation. This unit delves into its multifaceted world, addressing critical questions such as… How is our understanding of reality constructed through the media? Who controls the media and whose interests do they serve? How does media represent different social groups, and what are the consequences of these portrayals? What are the implications of the "new media" landscape for social interaction and democracy

Paper 3: Crime & Deviance with Theory and Methods

• Official statistics show that most crime is committed by young, working-class men, who are also the most frequent victims. This unit questions this paradox and explores why the same act can be considered normal in one situation but criminal in another. For instance, why is jaywalking mildly deviant in the UK but an offence in the US? You'll examine the reasons behind the formation of boy gangs, the rise of girl gangs, and consider solutions and preventative measures for crime, such as CCTV or environmental design.

What Exams Will I Take?

You will take one exam for each of the three modules at the end of the course. Each exam includes a mixture of short answer questions and essays. Considerable time is spent developing your essay-writing skills, analysis, and evaluation, which constitute a highly valuable toolkit for university and future careers. You should enjoy and feel confident writing essays, as this forms a significant part of the assessment.

• Outline two ways in which the family is patriarchal (4 marks)

• Outline three crime prevention strategies (6 marks)

• Analyse two reasons for the educational underachievement of boys (10 marks)

• Outline and explain two ways that characteristics of the new media has empowered audiences in contemporary society (10 marks)

• Evaluate the view that sociology can be regarded as scientific (20 marks)

• Evaluate the view that educational policies have improved educational outcomes for all students (30 marks)

What Careers or Higher Education Follow from this Subject?

Studying Sociology provides an exceptional foundation for both university-level study and a wide range of career paths. It is ideal for those considering a first-year university programme in the social sciences, or a BA (Hons) in Sociology or a related joint honours degree like Sociology with Psychology, Criminology, Politics, or Law. The critical thinking, research, and analytical skills you develop are highly valued across diverse industries. Sociology is particularly beneficial for careers in teaching, law, politics, business, media, marketing, human resources, social work, policing, and the charitable sector etc. 

Other Opportunities  Available Whilst Studying the Course

Our Sociology course extends beyond the classroom, offering enriching experiences to enhance your learning:

• Sociology in Action Trip: An annual, highly anticipated event featuring engaging lectures from leading academics and practical workshops to deepen your understanding of key sociological concepts.

•  Annual Exam Skills Seminar: Hosted by renowned expert Keith Trobe, this invaluable session provides targeted strategies and insights to help you excel in your exams.