Sociology A Level

A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language.

Sociology is the analysis of human societies making it an interesting and relevant course to study. This course will encourage you to develop analytical and evaluative skills and question aspects of society that you may have previously taken for granted. If you have an enquiring mind, an interest in current social issues and a willingness to explore a variety of explanations of the world around you, then Sociology is the subject for you.

Sociologists are most interested in the causes and consequences of social behaviour, such as crime or discrimination. Sociology will provide you with an understanding of the impact of the socialisation process on behaviour, culture, roles, and identity, with a reference to gender, class, age and ethnicity. You will gain an understanding of topic areas such as family, education, crime and deviance and social inequalities, including workplace inequality (studying theories of class, ethnicity, age, and gender).

You will develop a thorough understanding of sociological research methodology and gain knowledge of quantitative and qualitative methods of research and practical and ethical issues in the research process. You will also develop an understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of a range of research techniques including surveys, interviews, and various types of observations.

Three exams at the end of the second year, consisting of some short questions, structured responses and essays.

Many SCG students progress to degrees in social sciences, law, journalism, and the caring professions. Sociology is an excellent introduction to careers which involve working with people and this course provides many transferable skills which are applicable to many different career avenues, such as teaching, social work, criminology, working as a probation officer, and anthropology.

Trips include a crime conference to help you gain an understanding of contemporary research in criminology through questioning offenders about their reasons for committing crimes and the possibility of re-offending. 

You can apply online via the APPLY button and then add an additional two or three subjects to make up your academic programme. You can also apply for a second, alternative vocational programme of study via a separate application. If after reading this factsheet, you are still undecided about the course most suitable for you, please drop into one of our open evenings, ring our Admissions Department on 01743 653111, or email admissions@scg.ac.uk