Sociology

Course outline

Strengths of the programme include its focus on key contemporary social issues, social policy and decision making and international comparisons of social structures and policies. You will also benefit from teaching staff who are active researchers in fields such as ethnic and gender inequalities, work organisation, educational policy, global change, new technology and employment, risk and the environment, and theories of social change.

There is an optional, fully integrated Placement Year with extensive preparation and support offered by our dedicated placements team.

Learning, teaching & assessment

You will be involved in: lectures and seminars, small-group work, project work and independent study. Studies generally revolve around lecture classes in the first two years, and there are opportunities for group and collaborative work. Students undertake a major piece of independent research in final year.

You will be allocated a personal tutor who can provide you with help and advice.

Assessment is through a combination of exams, coursework, essays, presentations and an extended dissertation during your final year.

Placement year

By taking a 4 year Sandwich programme you will have the opportunity to undertake a year’s professional experience in industry or commerce in your third year of study. You will gain invaluable experience which will set you apart from other graduates and you are normally able to earn a salary.

You will be given support and advice on finding a placement. Many employers return each year to employ our placement students.

Recent Sociology placements include:

• Eurocity (Recruitment Agency) in Brussels

• BRMB Radio Station - Charity Coordinator

• Voluntary Work in Tanzania

• People and Planet (Charity group)

• Teaching English in Thailand

• Birmingham Youth Offenders Service (Birmingham City Council)

• West Midlands Police

• NFU Mutual Services

• Hertfordshire City Council - project management

• Hayes (recruitment consultancy)

• Behaviour support service

• Independent Property Group in Dubai

Career prospects

Our Graduates are in demand from a wide range of employers where a sound understanding of societies, organisations, team work and communication skills are required. For example, our 1999-2005 Graduates found employment/study in a wide range of areas.

Recent Graduate positions include:

• NHS - Management Trainee

• Warwickshire County Council, Nestlé, Deloitte and Touche - Graduate Trainees

• Focus Housing Group - Housing Manager

• PhD Research - Sociology and Social Sciences

• BP - Procurement

• English Heritage - Finance Officer

• Police Constable

• Marketing Assistants (variety of companies)

• IBM - Financial Analyst

• MandS - Human Resources Management

• PGCE - Primary/Secondary/College Teaching for teaching careers

The fact that Aston is distinctive in offering a placement year for our Sociology students gives them a particular edge and our students are encouraged to take up the opportunity of this valuable experience. 82% of our Sociology Graduates went into employment in 2005-6, against a UK average of around 70% for the subject.

Personal development

This course helps you to develop team working skills, presentation and communication skills. Your IT skills will also benefit from use of our newly refurbished e-learning language centre.

The Placement Year will develop your initiative, confidence and independence, as well as giving you invaluable professional experience. In your final year you complete an individual research dissertation which improves your independent research skills and report writing skills.

All students are encouraged to undertake Personal Development Planning (PDP.)