Free A Level Sociology in Bristol. Classes run at Bradley Stoke Community School South Gloucestershire. Sociology examines how society works, from family structures and education to crime, deviance, and the forces that shape everyday life. You'll study specific topics including family, education, crime and deviance, exploring big questions about social life and how policies are formed. The course runs full-time over two years. You'll need a grade 5 in English, plus a grade 5 in Sociology or a humanities subject if you've taken one.
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 explore 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 examine theories of crime and deviance, including how they're investigated.
You'll study how social policies are formed and their effects on different groups.
You'll evaluate competing sociological theories and apply them to real social issues.
You'll develop skills in research methods, including how to assess different approaches to studying social behaviour.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based lessons, discussion, and written work. Assessment is by written examinations at the end of the two-year course. AQA sets the exams, which test your knowledge of sociological theories, research methods, and the core topic areas you've studied.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Bradley Stoke Community School South Gloucestershire 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 and social programmes
Police officer: applies understanding of crime and social behaviour
Probation officer: works with offenders on rehabilitation and reintegration
Journalist: investigates and reports on social issues and policy
HR advisor: uses social insight in workplace and people management
Researcher: conducts social research for public bodies or charities
What you could study next
Sociology degree (BA): the natural next step after a level 3 a level sociology qualification, deepening theory and research skills.
Criminology degree (BA): builds on crime and deviance topics studied at A Level.
Social Policy degree (BA): focuses on how governments design and implement policy.
Psychology A Level or degree: complements sociology with individual behaviour and mental health perspectives.
