Course Code:
AQA Sociology A Level - 7192
Typical Entry Requirements:
6 in English Language
Career Possibilities:
The course provides students with a wide range of career paths, such as: Social researcher, Journalist, Legal work, Police work, Social work, Health care, Politics, Management, Teaching and Welfare officer. Sociology is an ideal subject for students who are considering careers in numerous areas of contemporary society and it develops many transferable skills, such as communication, analysis, evaluation and literacy.
The Programme:
Sociology is the systematic study of social behaviour, its origins, development and the impact of different institutions on individuals. The subject looks for patterns and relationships between areas such as the family and the British education system and the life chances of certain social groups. In sociology, students learn to relate sociological theories, such as Functionalism, Marxism, Feminism and Postmodernism to everyday experiences. Social inequality and moral issues are debated, and students often find they begin to question many social experiences they have previously taken for granted. The subject explores contemporary topics such as gender patterns in criminal behaviour, differing educational achievement across a variety of ethnic groups and changing roles of the family considering reasons for these differences.
The A Level qualification is comprised of three units, each being assessed by an examination at the end of the two-year period.
Unit 1 – Education with Theory and Methods
Unit 2 – Family and Household and Beliefs in Society
Unit 3 – Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods
An avid interest in both political events and current affairs is vital, with students needing to be continually aware of issues and debates in contemporary society. It is an essay-based subject and so a willingness to formulate arguments is also essential.
Why Study This Subject?:
Sociology is a discipline highly regarded by universities and employers alike. The course helps to develop a variety of skills that will be relevant to a broad range of careers. In lessons, students are expected to participate fully in group work, complete extended writing and formulate a balanced argument. In addition, communication skills will be developed along with an increased awareness of social diversity.