Sociology A Level
This stimulating and topical Sociology A Level course enables you to better understand people’s behaviour and the societal influence on their lives. It will give you a real insight into the world around you.
During the course, you’ll build up your knowledge and understanding of sociological thought and methods as well as develop your skills of analysis and evaluation – a great foundation for almost all courses in Higher Education.
Through this two-year course, you will complete modules based on the topics of:
– Families and households: The structure of the family, how it has changed over time and the reasons why
– Education: How do schools influence our lives? Is education fair? How and why is education organised.
– Crime and deviance: Looking at underlying causes and trends in deviance.
– Beliefs in Society: Exploring a range of beliefs and practices, how these have changed over time, and the impact they have on shaping the world around us.
Alongside these topics, we will look at the theoretical perspectives and the methods used by sociologists to investigate society.
Apply for this course
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Course details
Assessments
Assessment is via three exams at the end of the two years. They contain a variety of short answer and long mark essays.
Entry Requirements
To be accepted onto this Level 3 programme, you must hold at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including GCSE Maths and English Language.
Your English Language must be a grade 5.
Progression
Upon completion of this course, most students progress onto Higher Education. Sociology is particularly useful for those who are considering the civil service and local government, management, voluntary agencies like Oxfam, teaching, law, journalism, medicine, social work, nursing or social policy. It teaches transferable skills of analysis and evaluation which are applicable to all career paths.
Facilities and resources
You will be required to purchase textbooks for both years of study.
FAQs
Q: What is sociology?
A: Sociology is the study of human behaviour and sociologists seek to explore a range of factors that shape the world around us. Sociology is underpinned by key theories such as Functionalism, Marxism, Feminism, Action theories and more. Each theory has a different perspective on how the world is designed and why. Sociologist’s from each perspective conduct research to support their theories. For example, Conducting research on institutions such as the education system, family and households, the Criminal Justice System and more. Research carried out by sociologists helps inform our understanding of the impact of social class differences on educational attainment, how personal characteristics such as gender and ethnicity may limit a persons life chances, or which groups may have a greater influence social policies and how those policies affect society. Sociology opens your mind to those questions you may never have asked. It can turn your world upside down – making you think about common sense and everyday issues that are taken for granted. Be prepared to leave the classroom with more questions than answers. Lessons often involve a lot of discussion and debate and students are encouraged to keep up with current affairs.
Q: Do I have to do a lot of reading?
A: Yes, mostly based on the course material as well as reading interesting articles in current newspapers and researching topics further using text books and websites.
Q: Will there be opportunity for discussion and debate of current issues?
A: Very much so! This will allow you to form and give your own opinion on topics, there are always lively group discussions which you are expected to take part in.
Q: What other subjects go well with Sociology?
A: Geography, History, Classical Civilisation, Politics, Psychology, Economics, Law, Health and Social Care – any subject which try to explain why people do what they do.
Study Programme
Every full-time student at ÓÈÎïÉç will have their own Study Programme which will include:
– Your academic or vocational qualification.
– Maths and English Language development – if you have not achieved GCSE grade 4 in either of these subjects.
– Work Experience – hours will vary depending on your qualification and course level.
– Tutor Support – to support your personal, academic and professional development.
– Sustainability – helping you to identify how you can improve the sustainability of your future employment sectors.
– Personal Development Awards – developing six key areas of personal and employability behaviours to prepare you for the working world.
Why ÓÈÎïÉç should be your first choice
ÓÈÎïÉç offers quality education and training across North and Mid Devon. We aim to provide outstanding learning, excellent facilities, strong connections to employers and a supportive environment to help you fulfil your education goals and set you on your path to the career of your dreams.
SUPPORTIVE
We offer a supportive and inclusive environment where you can flourish and feel a valued member of the college and wider community.Â
INSPIRING
Our teaching spaces and facilities are some of the best in the region, providing stimulating and true-to-life learning environments.Â
CONNECTED
We’ll provide you with the experiences you need to be ready for employment or the next step on your educational journey.