A Level Sociology

Ever wondered how we developed into the society we are today? Or why certain roles are ‘gender-specific’? Sociology helps us to make sense of the society we live in and understand the cultural and identity issues which affect us all. On this course you will learn a number of skills including research and the use of evidence to support your arguments, fact investigation and critical thinking. Sociology is relevant to the society you live in, so you are bound to enjoy learning about topics that are relevant to everyday life; plus, it opens the door to a fantastic range of interesting careers.

Modules covered:

• Education with Theory and Research Methods: In this module we will cover educational reform; education policy linked to globalisation; functions of education; differential achievement by class and gender and ethnicity thinking about the links between sociological research methods via observation; questionnaires and interviews in relation to issues in education.
• Research Methods: We will explore different methods to collect data; including via observations, questionnaires, interviews, experiments, secondary sources and sampling techniques. We will also consider the practical, theoretical and ethical issues in research.
• Topics in Sociology: Topics covered will include; family and Households and the sociology of childhood, division of domestic labour, family diversity, functions of the family, demography and pattern of marriage and divorce.
• Belief and Society: In this module we will look closely at the function of religion, secularisation, religion and social change and religious organisations.
• Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods: We will explore the functions of crime, crime prevention, punishment, green crime and state crime and the rise of globalisation of crime.
• Theory: In this topic we will research sociological theories e.g. Marxism, Functionalism and Feminism and discuss via debates topics such as sociology as a science, value freedom and social policy.

Throughout the course we will develop a range of research methods including how to collect data via methods such as observations, questionnaires, interviews, experiments, secondary sources and sampling techniques. We will also look at the practical, theoretical and ethical issues in research.

The course includes a wide variety of learning experiences such as lectures, one to one tutorials, ICT based tasks, practical work, group work, discussions and debates, use of media e.g. documentaries, and personal research when preparing for assessment.

Progression to year 2 will be dependent on successful completion of the first year taking into account Internal Progression Examination results and the Key Assessment Profile throughout the first year.

If you wish to find out more you can contact Zoe Emery, Head of Sociology, by emailing: zoe.emery@nscg.ac.uk

Studying Sociology provides an excellent general qualification for many careers. You will be able to use it to progress to Higher Education. Universities recognise the independence of thought and critical awareness that A Level Sociology courses develop. Many employers appreciate the skills and knowledge that Sociology students will have gained during their studies. On a personal level, students will find that their awareness of sociological themes enhances their understanding of society and institutions and will consequently gain a unique and fascinating insight into their own lives.

There are a wide range of undergraduate degrees available in Sociology both locally and further afield. Both Staffordshire University and Keele University currently offer Sociology options. Sociology can be combined with many other subjects, for example Modern Languages which is a good idea if you wish to work outside the UK in the future. The sort of jobs Sociology graduates go on to do are wide ranging including teaching, social work, work within the criminal justice system, work within the health service, human resources, journalism, marketing and business and many more.

This course is free for anyone aged 16 – 18.

College Maintenance Allowance (CMA): Anyone with a gross household income under £30,000 can receive financial support to cover college related costs such as transport, meals, course equipment and uniform. Bursary support is based on individual circumstances and will be allocated to best suit your individual needs. A range of other financial support is available depending on your personal circumstances. For more details visit nscg.ac.uk/finance