Sociology

This course is designed with an emphasis on social equality, justice and individual and community empowerment. Throughout the degree students will think critically about the social and political debates that are shaping our world. Students will be supported to bring about positive change in the communities in which they live and organisations where they work, and will be taken out into the community of Southampton.

Throughout the course you will assess evidence and research that enables you to question existing policies and practice and apply sociological thinking to addressing social issues at both a local and global level. You will do this by learning to question practices and develop analytical skills to address social problems.

The skills you learn and develop in sociology can be used in a diverse range of careers. For example, being a critical thinker and being able to assess different viewpoints, asking critical questions about social issues has meant that employers in a range of sectors see sociology degrees as desirable. More specifically, sociology graduates develop communication skills, analytical skills, and cross cultural understanding, which can be utilised in a number of employment opportunities.

If you’re looking to study our sociology degree but don’t have the relevant qualifications or experience, the social sciences foundation year will help you develop the core skills and knowledge to progress. Find out more about the social sciences foundation year.

Student research
Research is embedded into this undergraduate degree and students are encouraged to get involved in research projects from the very beginning. Most recently, our sociology students have conducted research for a report - Beyond Waste: Essential Skills for a Greener Tomorrow - for the Chartered Institute of Waste Management for England and Wales (CIWM), as well as research around landlords renting for Toynbee Hall, a London-based community organisation that provides services and advice for people facing poverty and injustice.

Students are encouraged to get involved with Solent's Identities and Inequalities Research Group.

Who is this course for?
Sociology is a course for students who are interested in questioning the society in which they live. Students who want to study sociology should be interested in asking questions about social justice, social change so that they develop a better understanding of global social problems. Studying this course, you'll develop a broad set of critical, analytical and information skills.

What does this course lead to?
Sociology graduates go on to some of the most exciting careers around. In 2015 a British Council study found that nearly half of the most successful leaders in the world had studied social sciences! This programme does not only equip you to go on to diverse careers such as media, education, criminal justice, charity and non-profit, government, administration and hospitality. Through the opportunities for networking, and extra-curricular activities, you can build a CV and experience whilst studying that will set you on the path to success in whatever you choose to do.

YEAR ONE
CORE MODULES

Becoming Sociological
Researching Southampton
Broken Britain: Social Problems and Inequalities
Power: Its Uses and Abuses

YEAR TWO
CORE MODULES

Believing and Belonging
Theories of Society and Culture
Research, Practice and Employment
Death, Dying, Killing

FINAL YEAR
CORE MODULES

AI, Online Networks and Future Worlds
World in Crisis and Wasted Lives
Advocacy, Rights and Community Action
The Social Project

You may be assessed by a combination of:
Essays
Portfolios
Visual methods
Reflective accounts
Group work
Individual presentations
Group presentations
Poster presentations
As part of this course, you will study one module at a time, giving you the chance to build a deeper understanding and see the results of your hard work more quickly. With regular assessments and feedback, rather than exams all at once, you’ll also benefit from improved focus, and a more manageable workload.