Free A Level Sociology in Bristol. Classes run at Patchway Community College. Sociology explores how society works: family structures, education, crime, deviance, and the forces that shape everyday life. You'll study big questions about social groups and how policy affects people's lives. 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. A level 3 a level sociology qualification worth taking if you're heading to university or into roles that need strong analytical and social understanding.
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 opportunity and inequality.
You'll explore theories of crime and deviance and how society responds to them.
You'll evaluate different research methods, including how to investigate social issues like football hooliganism.
You'll develop skills in constructing arguments using sociological evidence.
You'll assess how social policies are formed and their impact on communities.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based lessons at Patchway Community College. Assessment is by written examinations at the end of the two-year course. AQA sets the exams, which test your knowledge of sociology topics and your ability to apply sociological theories and evaluate evidence.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Patchway Community College 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: designs and delivers local social programmes
Policy researcher: analyses social 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 issues and public affairs
What you could study next
BA (Hons) Sociology: the natural next step, building directly on your A Level Sociology qualification at degree level.
BA (Hons) Criminology: focuses on crime, justice, and deviance, extending the crime and deviance topics you've covered.
BA (Hons) Social Policy: explores how welfare systems and public policy are designed and evaluated.
BA (Hons) Psychology: pairs well with sociology for careers in health, education, or research.
