Examination Board: AQA
What is Sociology?
■ Sociology is the systematic or scientific study of human society and social behaviour, ranging from large-scale institutions and mass culture to small groups and individual interactions.
■ In Sociology, we look at institutions such as the family, the media and the education system and ask questions about their structure, in whose interests they operate, and the effect that they have on individuals and on society.
Why choose Sociology?
■ Studying Sociology offers insights into social and cultural issues. It helps you develop a multi-perspective and critical approach to understanding issues around culture, identity, religion, crime, families and social power. More than once during the course you’re bound to ask yourself the question, “why has society developed like this? With poverty, ignorance, crime and injustice.”
What skills will you learn?
A-level Sociology will help you develop a range of skills that will benefit you, whether you decide to go on to further study or the working world, including:
■ the use of evidence to support your arguments
■ how to investigate facts and use deduction
■ critical thinking
■ making reasoned arguments
■ developing opinions and new ideas on societal issues
■ the ability to analyse and better understand societal issues.
How will it fit in with my other subjects?
There’s no limit to the other subjects that you can take alongside Sociology. There’s such breadth to the subject that it will complement just about anything. Students who study Sociology often also study Psychology, English, Economics and History. Also, students who want a career in any of the caring services, or in marketing or business, will find an understanding of Sociology useful.
Where can Sociology take me?
Studying Sociology at university can give you a whole host of exciting career options, including:
■ Human resources
■ Advertising
■ Marketing
■ Journalism
■ Law
Entry Requirement
English Literature and English Language: grade 7+.
