Sociology
Exam Board: AQA

What is Sociology?

At its simplest Sociology can be defined as the study of human society and social behaviour.  The majority of us live in family groups, experience school from an early age and have knowledge of parts of a wider community.  We are familiar with some of the subject areas which are the concern of the sociologist.  Nevertheless, in order to appreciate the nature of society and understand human behaviour, we need to acquire particular kinds of knowledge and develop specialist skills in much the same way as in other disciplines.

Sociologists critically examine and question that which appears as obvious or common sense.  As Berger expresses it “The fascination of Sociology lies in the fact that its perspective makes us see in a new light the very world in which we have lived all our lives. … It can be said that the first wisdom of Sociology is this “things are not what they seem”. 
(Berger, P. 1966, Invitation of Sociology, Harmondsworth, Penguin).

Course Content

If you decide to study Sociology you will examine the following four units.

Year 12

AS Module 1 - The Family
AS Module 2 - Education and Sociological Research Methods

Year 13

A2 Module 3 -   Beliefs in Society
A2 Module 4 -   Crime & Deviance and Sociological Theory and Research Methods

Each Module has its own examination. You will not be required to do coursework.

Why Study Sociology?

Entry Requirements
At least 5 GCSE grades at A* - C, including a grade C in English.