A Level Sociology in Oldham for 16 to 18 Year Olds

CostFree for 16 to 18 year olds
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyAQA awarding body

A sixth-form course for 16 to 18 year olds. Aged 19 or over? Check which courses you can do free.

About this course

Free A Level Sociology in Oldham. Classes run at North Chadderton School. No prior knowledge of sociology is needed, and the course is open to students who meet the entry requirements. Over two years of full-time daytime study, you'll explore how society works, examining topics such as education, family, crime, and social inequality. You'll develop analytical and research skills that support university applications and a wide range of careers.

Who this course is for

Sociology is about you. It is to help you have a wider knowledge and understanding of the society in which you live. As members of society, all students should come to the course equipped with some knowledge of the social world. Sociology will help develop a deeper understanding of this social world and explain issues that directly affect the way you live. A Level Sociology has been designed so that students will acquire the essential knowledge and understanding of the central aspects of sociological thought and methods, together with the application of a range of skills. It is constructed around key sociological themes such as the way we are socialised, our culture and identity, social differentiation, power and stratification. Sociology builds upon a set of core skills, which underpin most university courses and many jobs, particularly those that involve working with and dealing with people. Sociology lessons require you to think, to question and to consider new ways of looking at the society you live in. Sociology lessons will be delivered in a number of ways, including group work, discussion, research, visual and written stimuli and data analysis. The use of ICT is inherent within the course and you will be asked to make presentations, carry out sociological research and take an active interest in the issues that face us in society today.

Entry requirements

To study A Levels at North Chadderton you must have achieved a minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade A""-C. Two of these must include GCSE Maths and English Language. A good school reference,attendance and behaviour record are also required, as is a positive interview There is no expectation that students will have studied Sociology at GCSE. No prior knowledge of the subject is needed.

What you will learn

  • You'll analyse how social institutions such as family, education, and the media shape everyday life.
  • You'll examine theories of crime, deviance, and social control.
  • You'll explore social class, gender, and ethnicity as factors in inequality.
  • You'll evaluate competing sociological perspectives and theoretical frameworks.
  • You'll develop skills in reading, interpreting, and critiquing research evidence.
  • You'll construct extended written arguments supported by sociological concepts.
  • You'll apply sociological thinking to current social issues and debates.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based lessons at North Chadderton School. Assessment is by written examinations at the end of the two-year course. AQA A Level Sociology is assessed across three papers, each covering different topic areas. There is no coursework component. Your teachers will use regular class work, essays, and practice papers to prepare you for the final exams.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. North Chadderton School will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Social worker: supports individuals and families through difficult circumstances.
  • Community development worker: leads local projects tackling social issues.
  • Police officer: applies understanding of crime and society in practice.
  • Journalist: investigates and reports on social and political topics.
  • Human resources officer: manages workplace equality and people policies.
  • Youth worker: supports young people in educational and community settings.
  • Market researcher: gathers and analyses data on social trends and behaviour.

What you could study next

An a level sociology qualification is a strong foundation for university study. You could progress to a BA in Sociology, Criminology, Social Policy, or Psychology. Many students also use it alongside other A Levels to apply for Law, Politics, or Education degrees. If you want to work in social care or education, a relevant degree or professional qualification such as a PGCE or social work degree would follow.