Sociology AS and A Level

The GCE A level Sociology specification emphasises the diversity and complexity of society.
Although the focus of the two year course will be on the contemporary United Kingdom, pupils will be encouraged to make use of comparative and historical examples from other societies.
The specification acknowledges national, regional and cultural diversity within society and it is hoped that pupils will have an opportunity to relate their own experiences to the study of Sociology.
The course will focus on the following:
· Theory and methods
· The family
· Education
· Mass Media
· Crime and Deviance
· Culture and Identity
· Religion
· Power and Politics

Throughout the two years, pupils will be required to undertake the writing and preparation of several essays and structured question answers.
An A level Sociology student will be required to:
· show an ability to recognise and understand the language and concepts associated with the study of Sociology
· be capable of reading , interpreting and analysing the work of known sociologists
· be aware of the contribution sociology has made to society while assessing issues that have appeared as a result of this
· select appropriate and relevant sociological material to analyse social issues and personal experiences and be capable of applying concepts, theories and experience to support arguments
· evaluate and compare sociological and non-sociological evidence and arguments

A good A level student of Sociology must:
· be highly motivated and enjoy the challenge of personal research
· enjoy reading and be prepared to read around the syllabus
· have a good command of English Language and enjoy participating in active discussion
· be able to write in an organised, structured, intelligent and fluent way

Career Implications
Students of Sociology acquire and develop skills of understanding, evaluation and application. These skills lend themselves to many career areas such as law, journalism, teaching and social work. At third level education however, sociology as a subject can be combined with many other subjects opening the doorway to other careers such as advertising, sales, marketing etc.