Sociology – A Level

A LEVEL · SOCIOLOGY

Examine society. Rethink the familiar.

Investigate how society is organised, how institutions shape culture and behaviour, and why people experience life differently.

QUALIFICATION
A Level

EXAM BOARD
AQA

DURATION
Two years

ASSESSMENT
Three written examinations

Why choose Sociology?

Sociology turns everyday questions into structured investigation. It develops critical thinking, coherent argument and confident communication while encouraging you to challenge assumptions about contemporary Britain.

What you will study

Families, education and methods
Families and households, education, research methods and methods in context.

Beliefs and social institutions
How shared ideas and institutions influence identity, values and action.

Crime, deviance and theory
Patterns of crime and deviance, sociological theory and methods.

Entry requirements

Essay-based subject
Grade 6 or above in a subject such as History, Media or English is preferred.

This course suits you if…

You want to understand society and its institutions.
You can present a balanced argument and evaluate other views.
You enjoy discussion and challenging familiar assumptions.
You are prepared to write extended evidence-based responses.

How you will be assessed

Component

Content

Weighting

Paper 1

Education, Methods in Context, Theory and Methods; 2 hours

33.3%

Paper 2

Families and Households, Beliefs in Society and option topics; 2 hours

33.3%

Paper 3

Crime and Deviance, Theory and Methods; 2 hours

33.3%

Where Sociology can take you

Sociology complements sciences, humanities and social sciences and supports careers centred on people, policy and communication.

Education Social work Politics Journalism Research Public relations

“Sociology helps me understand different viewpoints on a variety of topics in society, and the teachers encourage you to think outside the box.”