Sociology helps us look more objectively at our society and other societies. It directs attention to how the parts of society fit together and change, as well as makes us aware of the consequences of that social change.
Sociology makes us questions all aspects of society for instance… Is it possible to be a true citizen of Europe or must you be British or French or Polish? What if your parents came from Trinidad, Bangladesh, or Wales? Which comes first? Or are there other ways to look at identity?
How important is the job that you do for your sense of self and your future? Are national governments able to ensure that most people have a job and will be supported with health and social care when they need it? Or are most government policies made with the demands of vast transnational corporations in mind?
These are all vital questions. If you become a Sociology student at HC6, you will not be provided with quick answers. What you will discover is how to think about these issues for yourself – what are the questions behind the questions?
Course details
Qualification: A-level
Exam Board: AQA
Exam make-up: Individual exam (100%) / Coursework (0%)
Unit Titles: Paper 1 – Education with Theory and Methods. Paper 2 – Topics in Sociology. Paper 3 – Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods.
Key skills required: Essay writing, research skills, objectivity, contemporary awareness and wider reading.
Entry Requirements: Grade 5 in a Humanities subject or English Language at GCSE.
Career prospects:
- Social worker
- Media and ethics
- Teacher (primary and secondary)
- Civil Servant
- Politics
- Police Officer
- Lawyer
Complementary subjects: Geography, History, Psychology, English and Film Studies.
Staff details
Name: Ms Kerrie Cavilla Perkins
Degree Subject: Geography BA (Hons), PGCE and SSAT (MA)
University studied at: Newcastle, Sunderland (PGCE) and Nottingham.
“Studying sociology at university provided me with the critical and analytical skills needed to progress into a wide range of professions.
In my second year, I was able to select modules based on areas of sociology I am passionate about such as education and feminism. The course equipped me with a deeper understanding of how modern societies function and an appreciation for multicultural sensitivity in our ever-changing world.
My sociology background has proven to be extremely beneficial and helpful for teaching young children, as I am now a primary school teacher.”
Katie Goodhall
A-level grade achieved: B
Studied at Anglia Ruskin (BA Hons Sociology) and Cambridge (PGCE)