Course overview
Sociology is a very broadly conceived subject that has, at its heart, the aim of understanding modern industrial societies. It asks questions about what it is to be 'modern' for nations, societies, social groups and individuals. It aims to understand the ways in which societies are created, reproduced and sustained over time and it calls into question the apparently 'natural' structures and social inequalities underlying the distribution of wealth and power and explores emerging social movements and cultural practices attempting to come to terms with rapid social change.
Our undergraduate programme cultivates a critical and open-minded sociological imagination. From the outset students are encouraged to read the most up-to-date sociological research and develop a range of skills and knowledge through core modules on theory, research methods, critical analysis and social divisions.
The content of the sociology degree reflects staff expertise culminates in a research-based dissertation where students explore a topic of their own choice in great depth to draw together different strands of their programme.
Year one
In the first year, you will study aspects of sociology through a series of case studies covering topics such as globalisation, the city, contemporary culture, and changing patterns of employment. In addition, you will take introductory modules in Contemporary Society and Social Problems. In seminars, you will explore significant traditions and ideas in the discipline of sociology.
Year two
Year two will develop your understanding of the theoretical and methodological foundations of your subject. We encourage you to explore these through core modules focusing on the philosophy, politics and design of research. There will also be workshops providing 'hands on' experience of quantitative and qualitative research and some space for optional modules for more specialised study.
Year three
Year three provides the opportunity to develop your skills and knowledge through researching for and writing a dissertation on a topic of your choice. There will then be a choice of elective modules allowing you to specialise in your areas of interest. This list changes each year as it is based on the research interests of staff.
Entry requirements
A levels: AAB-ABB
English language requirements
IELTS 7.0 (including 6.0 in any element)
TOEFL iBT 100 (no less than 21 in listening and writing, 22 in reading and 23 in speaking)
Alternative qualifications
Mature applicants, including those on Access courses and those with alternative qualifications are especially encouraged to apply.
For details of alternative qualifications accepted, please see the alternative qualifications page or contact the School.
Notes for applicants
Studying abroad - under the Erasmus scheme, we have links with English-speaking universities in Europe and under the Universitas 21 programme, you are eligible to apply for a place to study in Australia, Canada or Singapore.
Modules
The modules we offer are inspired by the research interests of our staff and as a result, may change from year to year. The following list is therefore subject to change but should give you a flavour of the modules we offer.
Typical year-one modules
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Investigating Social Worlds
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Social Worlds and the Sociological Imagination
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Understanding Contemporary Society
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Culture in Contemporary Society
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Social Problems and Policy Responses
Typical year-two modules
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Classical Sociological Theory
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Research Design and Practice
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Knowing the Social World: Paradigms and Practices
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Contemporary Sociological Theory
Typical year-three modules
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Dissertation in Sociology
Typical optional modules
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Sociology of Traditional and Developing Societies
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Families and Social Divisions
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Belief, Spirituality and Religion
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Gender and Media
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Transnationalism
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Science, Technology and Society
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Urban Life and Social Theory
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Culture and Power
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Citizenship, Identity and Globalisation
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Media and Popular Culture
Skills and careers
In addition to the subject-specific knowledge that you will build throughout the programe, you will develop key, transferrable skills that are in high-demand by employers. These include written and oral communication, IT skills, statistical analysis, time management and motivation, critical evaluation and team work.
We support our students' employability through careers talks and events and a dedicated Careers Coordinator. Your academic and personal development will also be facilitated by your Personal Tutor, who will be both your academic tutor and provide pastoral support.
Average starting salary
The average starting salary for 2009/10 full-time graduates of the School of Sociology and Social Policy was £16,991.30.
*Average starting salary from known destinations of first-degree leavers who studied full-time, 2009/10.