Sociology

Explore why inequalities exist, how societies change and how you can make a difference, while developing skills in critical thinking, collaboration, leadership and data analysis for careers in policy, education, advocacy and social justice.

This course is ideal if you have an inquisitive, socially conscious mind and enjoy questioning the world around you. Our modules aim to equip you with the practical skills and critical thinking needed to develop an impactful career in social justice, education, policy and government, business or research.

Understanding and challenging society: investigate how social institutions like government, education and family shape our lives, and how social movements drive change.
Emerging perspectives on identities: explore ideas about identity, how we experience the world through our bodies, and the impact of social structures and marginalisation.
Interrogating culture: explore the ways that media and culture shape society, investigating the influence of digital media, pop culture and communication on identity, power and social change.

Why you should study this course
Project-based learning: actively engage in real-world, meaningful projects, work on complex problems, create tangible solutions and develop essential skills such as critical thinking, collaboration and communication. Assessment is designed to reflect the type of work carried out by sociology graduates. You might produce briefing papers, campaigns, podcasts, posters and presentations that showcase your expertise and real-world readiness.
Career-ready: this course goes beyond traditional assessments using industry-focused assessments and learning activities. It aims help you develop employer-valued skills and prepare for a career in academia, the social justice and charity sectors, or the private sector.
Go beyond the classroom: engage with contemporary social challenges. Explore Coventry’s historical sites to understand their sociological impact, gaining first-hand experience to help prepare you to drive meaningful change in society.
Join a supportive community: be part of an inclusive, open-minded environment that challenges inequality. Experience a mix of theoretical learning and practical application, with group teaching, approachable staff and active student engagement. This helps to foster a supportive learning environment and promote a sense of community, both academically and socially.
Build your experience: take advantage of optional placements2 in social research, education or community organisations. Previous students have secured placements as a research assistant for the Gallery of Living History, a youth engagement officer for the Positive Youth Foundation, and a student resilience worker for Positive Choices.

Where our graduates work
Past graduates are now employed in a range of private and public sector industries ranging from banking and finance, media, education, the civil service, police forces, local authorities, charities and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs).

Please visit our website for the most up-to-date information.

Course Modules

The information on this page is for 2024-25 entry and should be used as guidance for 2025-26 entry. Please keep checking back on this course page to see our latest updates.

This course has a common first year

The common first year enables you to work alongside students doing similar courses to you, to widen your knowledge and exposure to other subject areas and professions. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with other students, so you can share your insights and experience which will help you to develop and learn.

If you discover an interest in a specific subject you have studied, upon successful completion of your first year, you could swap degrees with another course in your common first year (subject to meeting progression requirements).

Common first year courses

Sociology BA (Hons)
Sociology and Criminology BA (Hons)

Year One Modules
Understanding Society
Crime, Disorder and Social Control
Keys to Study in Sociology and Criminology
Diversity and Divisions
Media and Popular Culture
Social Policy and Social Change

Year Two
In year two, you will develop more advanced knowledge and skills to do with: social theory, 21st century lifestyles and political activism, amongst others.

Modules
Traditions and Controversies in Social Theory
Researching Social Life
21st Century Lifestyles
Body/Self
Political Activism #TheAgeOfEmpowerment
Families and Relationships

Placement Year
There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement* can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur between your second and final year of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future.

If you choose to do a work placement year, you will pay a reduced tuition fee* of £1,250. For more information, please go to the fees and funding section. During this time you will receive guidance from your employer or participating institution, along with your assigned academic mentor who will ensure you have the support you need to complete your placement.

Final Year
Year three aims to bring you to the level to enter the world of work by consolidating your knowledge and skills from year one and two. You could also work on a large final project in an area of your interest, with the support of a mentor and your Academic Personal Tutor.

Modules
Final Project
The Lunar Society: Philosophy of the Midlands
Race and Racism
Gender and Society
Disability in Society
Sex, Sexuality, Power and Oppression
Social Media and Digital Worlds
Punishment and Penology

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated. Before accepting any offers, please check the website for the most up to date course content. For full module details please check the course page on the Coventry University website.

*For further information please check the course page on the Coventry University website