Why choose A level sociology?

Sociology is the study of society in a structured and disciplined way. It encourages you to explore not only the major events that shape human beliefs and behaviour but also the everyday, often overlooked, social realities around us. Sociology reveals the many layers of meaning beneath social life, challenging perceptions and offering new insights into how societies and identities are formed.

Course type: A level

Board: OCR

Entry requirements: Grade 5 or above in GCSE English, humanities and maths

How will A level sociology be delivered?

The course is taught over two years through a mixture of classroom-based lessons, independent research, group discussions, and essay writing. Students will study three core components that cover key sociological themes, theories and research methods.

You will study:

  • Component 1: Socialisation, culture and identity – This introduces the key themes of socialisation, culture, and identity. Students will also study the option of youth subcultures.
  • Component 2: Researching and understanding social inequalities – This covers sociological research methods and exploring inequalities linked to class, gender, race, and age across key social areas
  • Component 3: Debates in contemporary society – Students study globalisation and the digital social world, alongside the option of crime and deviance.

Assessment

Assessment is through three written exam papers taken at the end of the course. Each paper is 2 hours long, carries 80 marks, and contributes equally (33.3%) to the final grade. There is no coursework component.

Progression

A level sociology develops strong analytical and research skills that are highly valued by universities and employers. It opens the door to a wide range of higher education courses and career pathways where understanding social issues is essential.

Studying this course can help students to:

  • Progress to university courses in social sciences, humanities, and related fields
  • Pursue careers in social welfare, healthcare, education, politics, and media
  • Develop transferable skills such as critical thinking, communication, and data analysis
  • Explore opportunities in government, community work, journalism, and research sectors