Sociology (A-Level)

A-Level

Understand society. Question assumptions. Explore change.

Why do different groups have different opportunities in life? How do families, education, media and crime shape society? And how can we better understand and respond to social problems?

A Level Sociology explores how society influences our lives, beliefs, behaviours and opportunities.

You will study key sociological theories and apply them to the modern world, examining major social institutions and contemporary issues. Throughout the course, you will be encouraged to ask thoughtful questions, debate different viewpoints and consider how social problems can be understood and addressed.

Sociology is particularly valuable in a changing world because it develops skills such as reasoning, ethical judgement, collaboration and recognising bias.

Qualification: A Level
Location: Pendleton Sixth Form College
Academic Year: 2027/28
Assessment: Three examinations

Outline

Education

Explore the role of the education system in society and consider how social characteristics can influence educational experiences and outcomes.

Families and Households

Examine how families have changed over time and consider debates around family structures and their role in society.

Media

Investigate the influence of the media on the social world, who controls it and whether it acts as a positive or negative force.

Crime and Deviance

Explore why some social groups are more likely to appear in crime statistics than others and consider how crime can be prevented in an increasingly globalised world.

Theory and Research Methods

Learn how different sociologists understand society and explore the methods they use to study the social world.

Your learning will extend beyond lessons through opportunities to debate and research contemporary social issues.

You may take part in your own social research projects and visit Manchester and other cities to apply sociological ideas to the real world.

These experiences can help you connect classroom theory with the communities, institutions and social issues you encounter in everyday life.

Progression

Sociology can support progression to university and a wide range of careers across public services, social care, criminal justice and government.

Health and Social Care

Potential careers include:

Social Work
Youth Work
Therapy

Criminal Justice System

You could progress towards careers such as:

Lawyer
Probation Officer
Criminologist
Police Officer

Government and Politics

Sociology can also support progression into roles including:

Policy Adviser
Civil Servant
Politician
Housing Officer

Assessment

You will complete three written examinations at the end of the two-year course.

Throughout the course, you will be expected to apply sociological theories, analyse evidence, evaluate different viewpoints and develop clear, well-supported arguments.

Entry Requirements

A combination of 5 Grade 4’s and 5’s or above at GCSE (including maths and English). * One Vocational Qualification in a related subject area will be considered in place of a GCSE.

* Fees

Don’t let the cost of studying put you off – most of our students study for FREE, and those who don’t qualify for funding are very often eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan.

Eligibility depends on both the course you have chosen to study and your individual circumstances.

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Academic Yr

Select your choice below:

Name

Available At

Start Date

Fee

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Academic Yr

27/28

Name

Sociology (A-Level) (Level 3)

Available At

Pendleton Sixth Form College

Start Date

01/09/2027

Fee

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Academic Year