Free A Level Sociology in Bristol. Classes run at Abbeywood Community School. Sociology explores how society works: family structures, education systems, crime, and the forces that shape everyday life. You'll study topics including family, education, crime and deviance, asking big questions about how social policies are formed and why people behave as they do. The course runs full time over two years. Entry requires a grade 5 in English, plus a grade 5 in Sociology or a humanities subject if you've studied either.
Who this course is for
Sociology is the study of one of the most fascinating topics on earth human life and social groups from the man on the street to global events. This subject asks the big questions about social life to enable us to understand the world around us and to understand how policies are formed that can help improve our lives. For example, we look at what is the best way to investigate football hooliganism and is there an ideal type of family. Specific topics include family, education, crime and deviance, and beliefs. As well as these areas of knowledge you will also develop essential research skills including data analysis. Sociology equips students with many general skills which are sought by universities and employers alike such as critical analysis and the clear expression of ideas. It is well suited to people centred employment such as journalism, teaching, legal professions and marketing.
Entry requirements
5 in English; plus 5 in Sociology if taken or a humanities subject
What you will learn
You'll examine how families are structured and how they've changed over time.
You'll analyse how education systems shape life chances and social inequality.
You'll explore theories of crime and deviance and how society responds to them.
You'll evaluate different research methods used to investigate social issues.
You'll assess how social policies are developed and their impact on communities.
You'll apply sociological perspectives to real events and global social trends.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom teaching, discussion, and written work. Assessment is by written examinations at the end of the two-year course. AQA sets the exams, which test your ability to apply sociological theories, evaluate evidence, and construct arguments. There are no coursework components in the AQA A Level Sociology specification.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Abbeywood Community School will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Social worker: supports individuals and families through statutory services
Community development worker: leads local projects addressing social need
Policy researcher: analyses data to inform government or charity policy
Probation officer: works with offenders on rehabilitation and supervision
Youth worker: supports young people in community or educational settings
HR assistant: applies understanding of workplace behaviour and culture
Journalist: investigates and reports on social and political issues
What you could study next
BA (Hons) Sociology: the natural next step, deepening your understanding of social theory and research.
BA (Hons) Criminology: builds directly on the crime and deviance topics in this course.
BA (Hons) Social Work: leads toward a career in statutory or voluntary social care.
BA (Hons) Politics or Psychology: combines well with the analytical skills developed in your a level sociology qualification.
