SPECIFICATION LINK: 7192

TITLE: AQA Level 3 Advanced GCE in Sociology (601/3994/8)

Why study Sociology at William Farr?

Sociology at William Farr offers you the chance to be taught by enthusiastic and experienced staff who encourage independent thought, debate, and a deeper understanding of the society you live in. Our team have marked for the exam board, giving students unique insight into how to succeed. Lessons are stimulating and students are encouraged to broaden their horizons through enrichment opportunities including a guest criminology speaker and a court visit in the second year of study alongside fellow Social Science students - supra‑curricular activities designed to challenge students to think critically about society and culture.

What will you study?

A Level Sociology explores how society is structured and what makes it function, encouraging students to analyse the systems and relationships that shape everyday life.

In Module 1: Education, students examine the role of schools, patterns of achievement among different social groups, and the impact of globalisation on educational policy. Module 2: Families and Households looks at how family life has changed over time, considering industrialisation, urbanisation, demographic trends, gender roles, domestic labour, and childhood. In Module 3: Beliefs in Society, students study theories of religion, the role of belief systems in social change, and issues such as secularisation, cults, sects, and denominations. Finally, Module 4: Crime and Deviance explores explanations of crime, social order and control, the distribution of crime across age, class, ethnicity, and gender, as well as the effects of globalisation and the role of the criminal justice system.

Assessment is through three equally weighted two‑hour exams: Paper 1 on education with theory and methods, Paper 2 on families and beliefs in society, and Paper 3 on crime and deviance with theory and methods. Together, these modules help students develop a deeper understanding of cultural diversity, social stratification, and the forces that shape modern society.

Where can Sociology lead?

An A Level in Sociology is versatile, leading to careers in social research, policy, and community development, as well as roles such as probation officer, youth worker, housing officer, and equality and diversity officer. It also provides a foundation for public service and law careers, including civil service, local government, policing, and legal professions, while healthcare pathways include social work, counselling, and health service management. Beyond these, Sociology students are valued in media, business, and communication fields such as journalism, marketing, public relations, human resources, and consultancy, thanks to their ability to understand social structures, analyse evidence, and communicate effectively.