Sociology
Course Information
- Course Type School Leaver
- Subject Area Humanities and Social Sciences
- Qualification A Level 🧩
- Study Mode: Full Time
- Course Level Level 3
- Location Hele Road Centre
- Course Length 2 years
This course can be combined with others and goes well with History, Business, Politics, Law, Geography, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Psychology, Economics, Media Studies, and English Literature and Language. A Levels can also be studied alongside a BTEC Level 3 Certificate. You will complete an AS Level in the first year.
Overview
Sociology is the study of society and human social behaviour – the range of things that govern our interactions with one another. This course gives you knowledge about contemporary society, social processes and change.
Who is this course for?
Choose this course if you enjoy questioning the world around you and your place within it, analysing everyday issues and institutions, debating and discussing current affairs, nationally and globally.
- What you will study
-
On this course you will:
- Study units such as identity and culture, education, beliefs in society and crime and deviance
- Learn about different sociological perspectives, research methods and develop a sociological imagination.
- Develop your own sociological awareness through wide reading and research and active engagement in the subject
- Operate in an environment of no right answers and learn to evaluate the usefulness of different theories and types of evidence
- Have the opportunity to hear from guest speakers and there will be visits to universities and conferences
- Assessment
-
There are two 90 minute exams at AS and three 120 minute exams at A Level.
- Entry Requirements
-
You will need eight GCSEs at grade 4 or above (including English Language and Maths).
Progression and careers
The analytical and interpretative skills you acquire are excellent preparation for university. Your high social awareness will be useful in a range of occupations. Further academic study and professional training can lead to a career in education (teaching), business (marketing/advertising), the caring professions (nursing, social care, social work), public services (police, probation, prison services, local council), or problem-solving careers (data analysts).
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need to have studied Sociology at GCSE?
-
No previous study of Sociology is needed. You’ll learn the key concepts from the start. Curiosity about society, an interest in current affairs and a willingness to consider different viewpoints are useful starting points. You will need to meet the college’s course entry requirements.
- What is the difference between Sociology and Psychology?
-
Both subjects explore human behaviour, but from different perspectives. Sociology examines how society, culture and institutions shape our experiences, including the influence of social class, gender and ethnicity. Psychology focuses more on individual behaviour and mental processes, such as memory, attachment and mental health, including biological explanations.
- Is Sociology mainly about giving your own opinion, and will I need to write essays?
-
Your views can be a useful starting point for discussion, but Sociology involves going beyond personal opinion. You’ll learn to write essays that explain sociological theories, use research and evidence, and evaluate different arguments. You can disagree with a theory, provided you justify your reasoning with sociological evidence. You will have lots of support to practice and improve your essay writing skills.
- Is A level Sociology accepted by leading universities?
-
Yes. Sociology can form part of an application to Russell Group universities, including Oxford and Cambridge, provided you meet the requirements for your chosen degree. It is an academically demanding subject that requires you to understand theories, analyse research and construct evidence-based arguments. The label “soft subject” does not reflect these demands.
- How is Sociology relevant today?
-
Sociology helps you understand issues that affect everyday life, including inequality, identity, discrimination, crime and changes in education and beliefs. It encourages you to question assumptions, consider different perspectives and look beyond headlines to assess evidence. You’ll also develop transferable skills in critical thinking, analysing information and communicating clear arguments.
-
Have a question?
Need help your application?
Speak to us today on: 01392 400500
Message us via our contact form
Ready to find out more?Why not come along to one of our open events, a chance to explore our facilities, ask questions about our courses and find out more about being a student at Exeter College.
-
How to apply
Ready to start your journey?
Applying is straightforward:
1) Complete our online application form
2) Submit your GCSE results or predicted grades
3) Attend an interview
4) Receive your offer and enrol
What our students think?
“In English Literature, we discuss a wide range of subjects – feminism, romanticism, the gothic, science – everything gets covered so that’s why it’s so interesting. I really recommend Exeter College for both the study side, which is outstanding, and the social side is amazing too – you will develop a whole new group of... Read more >
“By studying Law you feel like you’re doing something that is really relevant because it directly relates to the real world. The College has set up fantastic links to different Law firms which has enabled me to secure work experience and I’ve been able to go to events and network with employers. It really is a close-knit community at... Read more >
“I study PE, Biology and Psychology A Levels and find they link together nicely. I chose my subjects by thinking about what I enjoy the most and what could help lead to a career in Sports, as that is my main interest.” Read more >
You may also like View all Level 3 Courses View all Humanities and Social Sciences Courses
-
Psychology 101 – Extend Option
- Level: Level 3
-
Political Discourse and Debates – Extend Option
- Level: Level 3
-
Mock Trails – Extend Option
- Level: Level 3