Sociology A Level
Course Overview
Sociology at A Level seeks to understand all aspects of human social behaviour, including the social dynamics of small groups of people, large organisations, communities, institutions and even entire societies.
Sociology is the study of society, and sociologists are motivated by their desire to better understand social life, believing that this will help improve people’s lives. If you choose to study Sociology you will discover how to investigate these kinds of questions for yourself and begin to understand more about your own motivations and behaviours.
Over the two-year course, you will develop your sociological imagination and raise awareness of current affairs, contemporary social issues and inequalities in society based on factors such as social class, gender, ethnicity and sexuality.
Course Components
Year 1 Components
- Families and Households
- Education
- Research Methods
- Methods in Context
Year 2 Components
- Beliefs in Society
- Crime and Deviance
- Sociological Theories
- Debates in Sociology
Key Info
Minimum Entry Requirements
Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including:
- GCSE grade 4 in Sociology
- Or GCSE grade 4 in English Language or English Literature if Sociology not studied at GCSE
Assessment
- 100% Exam
- 3x Two-Hour Exams
- Exam Board: AQA
Subject Lead
Mr S Evans
Why Choose this Course?
How do you relate to politicians, celebrities, your teachers or your friends? How do you define yourself, your family and other people? In Sociology, we explore the way that society works, what connects people and what divides them.
If you are fascinated by the behaviour of others and why we act the way we do, then Sociology is for you. Sociology gives you the opportunity to study the ways that our world is changing, from the Covid-19 pandemic to the impact of new technologies and the changing nature of personal relationships.
Skills You Gain
Studying Sociology will develop a range of valuable transferable skills, from independent research and oral communication to how to construct a strong written argument.
Sociology will also enhance your understanding of complex ideas and develop your research and analytical skills, including the ability to conduct questionnaires, interviews, focus groups and interpret and challenge numerical data and statistics.
After Northgate
Sociology is a well-respected A Level which will help gain access to a variety of degree courses and professional qualifications. Many students combine Sociology with Psychology, Politics, Media Studies and Health & Social Care. It is particularly useful for those considering a career in social work, the police, law, the media, healthcare, and teaching.
“Sociology is a really interesting and relevant subject. I enjoy the lessons and particularly liked the education and criminology topics.”