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In a nutshell

This course provides an introduction and exploration into the study of sociology.

This course is for you if...

... You’re curious about culture
... You want a better understanding of how society works
... You’re self-motivated and hard working

What will I be doing?

AS Level

Unit 1: Acquiring culture provides an introductory core to sociology. You’ll learn the meaning of 'culture ' and how it is transmitted. We also study the families and culture option. This explores such topics as marriage, divorce and family diversity.

Unit 2: Understanding society and methods of sociological enquiry considers sociological research methods, looking at experiments, surveys and observations. We then study the sociology of education option. This includes such topics as the role of education and the impact of social class, ethnicity and gender on educational attainment.

A2 Level

Unit 3: Power and control. In this unit we study the crime and deviance option, which includes patterns of social distribution, definitions and official government statistics.

Unit 4: Social inequality and applied methods of sociological enquiry. This unit requires you to design, justify and evaluate a piece of sociological research. You’ll also study social inequality, including social differentiation and stratification.

There is no coursework in this course. Both the AS and A2 assessment consists of two written examinations sat at the end of the year. Examinations are mainly essay based. Upon completion, you’ll achieve:

• AS Level Sociology
• A Level Sociology
• Skills Activities

English and Maths

What is expected of me?

To enrol, you’ll need a minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade C and above, including GCSE English/Welsh First Language and mathematics.

Full commitment to attendance is required, as is respect for others, enthusiasm for the subject and self-motivation. You’ll be continually assessed and there’s an expectation that you’ll continue your studies and coursework during your own time.

What comes next?

Sociology can be studied as a 'stand-alone ' AS qualification or taken to A2, after successful completion of AS.

Higher Education or courses/careers involving people, such as the police force, journalism, management, law, teaching and social work.

Additional information

You’ll need to make financial contributions to the travel cost of educational visits.