Sociology - BA (Hons)

Gain an in-depth understanding of how human societies and individuals behave, then use your knowledge in a wide range of careers.

On this course you’ll explore the social worlds in which humans live, along with their striking features and possible futures. We’ll help you develop new methods for making sense of human existence, as well as new insights that challenge the way many people see the world.

In particular we explore why people live, work and interact in the ways they do. What are the causes and effects of their choices? How do factors such as popular culture influence them? How are issues such as gender, race, politics, beliefs and education perceived and dealt in societies?

Many organisations, from governments to advertising agencies, ask these fundamental questions when planning their next move. This course will provide you with the sociological knowledge, skills and techniques to find answers.

A variety of in-depth core modules will introduce you to the different areas of sociology, as well as specialist interests such as crime and deviance, gender relations, race and racism and social theory. Course content reflects changing emphases and developments within sociology, so you can be certain what you learn is current.

At the same time you’ll develop your abilities as an independent, creative, critical thinker, who can analyse complex situations and confidently challenge 'common sense' assumptions. And there’ll be plenty of opportunity to personalise your studies in years two and three, to reflect your career and professional goals.

You’ll be able to visit courts and prisons, take part in Anglia Graduate Society debates and undertake research projects for Peterborough Environment City Trust. We also have an active Social Science Society which organises guest lectures and trips.

In the most recent Research Assessment Exercise, many of our social science academics were highly rated for their research work. They contribute to a variety of projects, including the work of the Justice and Communities Research Unit and the Cultures of the Digital Economy Research Institute.