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Sociology

A Level / 2 year Course / AQA

Sociology is the study of social life, change, and the causes of human behaviour. It explores how society, culture, and institutions shape individuals and groups, influencing our actions, values, and interactions. By examining topics like family, education, crime, and inequality, sociology helps us understand the systems that govern our lives and the forces driving societal change. It offers valuable insights into how we navigate and impact the world around us.

More on this course

Sociology looks at the modern world from the perspective of social groups, particularly those associated with social class, gender and ethnicity. The course will also introduce students to the competing sociological theories of Marxism, Functionalism, Interactionism, Feminism and Postmodernism. There is a heavy emphasis on becoming familiar with the studies, ideas and theories of sociologists working within these ideological frameworks.

A key feature of the course is knowledge of the research methods used by different sociologists and a general awareness of methodological theory and practice. The course considers how sociological approaches have impacted on social policy in recent years.

Areas studied are:

  • Education with Theory & Methods and Methods in Context
  • Crime and Deviance with Theory & Methods
  • Topics in Sociology: 1. Culture and Identity, 2. The Media.

Teaching and learning methods

Students will learn through a variety of methods, but with an emphasis on good essay construction, the ability to evaluate between competing sociological approaches, and using  materials to become familiar with a wide range of sociological studies and quantitative and qualitative research methods.

Assessment

Assessment is entirely exam-based with three two-hour exams consisting of mainly essay-based questions at the end of the course.

Skills and Careers Insight

A Level Sociology helps you develop critical thinking, research, and analytical skills as you explore the structure and dynamics of society, social behaviour, and the forces that shape individuals and communities. You'll study topics like crime, education, family structures, social inequality, and culture, gaining insights into how society functions and how various social factors interact. These skills are highly valuable in careers such as social work, education, law, journalism, public policy, human resources, and research. Whether you aspire to become a social worker, policy analyst, journalist, or community development officer, A Level Sociology provides a strong foundation for a career focused on understanding and improving society.

Subject Combination

Sociology is an essay-based social science and thus combines best with subjects such politics, classics, law, philosophy, economics and history.

History

Politics

Media Studies

Philosophy

Law

Economics

Student Testimonials

What do our students think about studying here?

I love sociology because it is so interesting and makes me view day to day life with a new understanding. I especially enjoy Post-Modernity and Marxism. I feel it is relevant as I want to go into media and communications, so having an understanding of sociology can only help. It is very similar to psychology, and I feel like the two compliment each other.

Sheryl Ejim

Former DSFC Student from The Academy at Shotton Hall

I really enjoy sociology as there is an element of challenge within the lessons and wider study, and we work collaboratively to develop our opinions and overcome those challenges.

Millie Thompson

Former DSFC Student from Wolsingham School

I think the best thing about Durham Sixth Form Centre is the fact that it’s a mature environment and it gives you the independence you need.

Sam Henig

Previous school - Wellfield School

I think Durham Sixth Form Centre is a perfect choice because the lessons are well planned and there is a brilliant balance between independent learning and support from all teachers.

Hannah Warwick

Previous school - Hermitage Academy

When I was in Year 11, the biggest worry for me was the transitional period between Year 11 and Year 12. But the support and the teachers made this so much smoother for me moving from my secondary school to Durham Sixth Form Centre.

Jenni Fairish

Previous school - Whitworth Park Academy

The atmosphere and quality of teaching at Durham Sixth Form Centre is very impressive and you can see a great deal of passion from the educators, which is something I believe is very important.

Logan Aitchinson

Previous school - Park View School