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Pembrokeshire College, Merlins Bridge, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, SA61 1SZ

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Sociology

Sociology

Crowded city street of people.

WJEC A-level Sociology

Sociology is the study of human societies; social life, social change and the social causes and consequences of human behaviour. As a sociologist you will investigate the structure of groups, organisations and societies and how people interact within these contexts.

LEARNERS:
ID: 1023

Is this course right for me?

This course is ideal for you if you appreciate an enthusiastic, knowledgeable debate on a wide range of social changes in contemporary society.

  • Five GCSEs at grade C or above (may include one relevant equivalent) to include English Language/First Language Welsh and Mathematics/Numeracy
  • English Language/Literature/First Language Welsh grade B
  • Please check the AS Level Options Grid to see if this subject fits into your chosen programme
  • Each application is considered on individual merit
  • Entry is subject to attending a course information session or informal interview
  • Successful completion of relevant programme (including skills) and decision from progression board meeting

Sociology A-level is a complex course that will help you understand and evaluate a number of theories and controversial ideas related to the pattern, trends and social change in society.

During your time on this course you will develop your understanding of British society in terms of contemporary culture and issues related to social divisions, attainment of power and control.

Units to be studied will include:

  • Acquiring culture – the core theme for this unit is socialisation and culture. Within these themes the focus is on how culture is transmitted, with an emphasis on sources of identity and the family.
  • Understanding culture – split between studying education and research methods.
  • Understanding power and control – the key theme to understanding in this unit is the nature of power and social control by examining crime and deviance.
  • Understanding social divisions – there are two elements to this unit. The first element is a compulsory research methods assessment which is designed to build on the knowledge and understanding of research methodology. The second element relates to social inequality in the UK.

Learners also complete the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales and are required to develop their essential skills (communication/numeracy and digital skills). Learners will also attend a weekly group tutorial.

You may need to study an additional skills course depending on:
  • the course you are taking at College
  • what grades you gained in your GCSE Maths and/or English Language
Click below to find out what skills course you may be taking at College

Learners are able to complete either the full qualification or certain units or elements through the medium of Welsh/bilingually. Visit our Welsh Language in the College page to find out what else is available to you.

  • Written examination

This course can lead to a diverse range of career opportunities in a varied range of businesses including: Further education teacher, Higher education lecturer, International aid/development worker, Policy officer, Secondary school teacher, Social researcher, Social worker, Youth worker, Charity officer, Civil Service administrator, Family support worker, Housing manager/officer, Human resources officer, Life coach, Newspaper journalist, Police officer, Probation officer, Public relations officer, Special educational needs coordinator (SENCO).

If you are thinking about studying at degree level following this course please visit the university websites or UCAS (University Central Admissions Service) www.ucas.com to check any entry requirements.

  • Stationery - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course
  • Text books - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course, most text books are available to loan from the college library or online libraries
  • You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page

Any costs above are approximate and may change.

  • No tuition fee
  • We are waiving the Administration Fee for the academic year 2024/25
  • You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page

Any costs above are approximate and may change.

Additional information

Online Learning Elements?

Yes

Mode:

Level:

Sports Academy: While on this course you may be able to join our Sports Academy, if you have a talent for sport, find out what we offer on our Sports Academy page.

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Last updated: 24/10/2023
Disclaimer:
The College takes all reasonable steps to provide the educational services and courses as described above. Details are correct at the time of editing but may be subject to change without prior notice. Courses will not run if student numbers are insufficient. The College has the right to refuse individuals entry to courses in certain circumstances. Prospective students may be advised of more suitable alternatives, if appropriate. The entry requirements stated are those that are normally required to undertake the programme of study.
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