Course Overview
Choosing to study A Levels at Coastland College means joining a Sixth Form with a strong record of achievement.
Our Weymouth Campus is recognised among the best in the country for value-added success – meaning our students consistently achieve higher grades than predicted and progress to top universities and competitive degree pathways in sociology, as well as careers in social services, education, criminal justice, welfare services, government and more.
The College is known for its excellent performance, with a 100% overall pass rate for A Level students in 2025. We are unique in that we continue to offer both AS and A Levels, and offer flexible pathways to combine A Levels with other qualifications, offering you the best possible start for your future.
You’ll study in a supportive and ambitious environment where small class sizes, expert teaching, enrichment opportunities and access to excellent facilities help you achieve your full potential.
Entry Requirements
At least 5 GCSEs at minimum grade 4-5, including 5 for Maths and English. You are expected to spend 3-5 hours a week reading about the subjects, doing specific homework or revision/exam practice.
Course Structure
Course Description
What makes society work, and what causes it to change?
A Level Sociology at Coastland College explores how people interact, how institutions shape our lives, and how inequality, identity and culture influence behaviour.
Sociology teaches you to view the world from different perspectives – a skill that’s essential for understanding and shaping the society you live in.
You’ll learn to think critically about the world, question assumptions and apply sociological theories to real issues – from class and gender to globalisation and digital life – which will set you up well for university or future careers.
You will study themes such as Socialisation, Culture & Identity; Researching & Understanding Social Inequalities; Functionalism, Marxism, Feminism and the New Right; Debates in Contemporary Society; Crime and Deviance.
This course is ideal for students interested in understanding how societies function and how individuals fit within them.
Progression
Sociology provides an excellent foundation for a wide range of university courses and careers.
It helps you develop research, communication and analytical skills valued in both the public and private sectors. This leads can lead to opportunities in social services, education, criminal justice, welfare services, government, counselling, charities and the voluntary sector.