Sociology

Studying sociology opens doors to a fascinating exploration of the world we live in. You’ll learn the tools to understand how societies tick, unravelling the mysteries of human behaviour, and diving into the diverse world of cultures and communities.

Sociology isn’t just about books and theories – it will also open up a world of possibilities for your future career. You could end up in roles where you can make a real impact; shaping policies, carrying out social research, contributing to community development, or even championing causes that matter to you are all realistic career paths.

Sociology is a route to understanding people and making a positive mark on the world. So, if you're looking for a subject that combines curiosity, empathy, and the potential to make a difference, sociology is a great choice to a fulfilling career.

The impact you could make

Identify and address systemic issues such as discrimination, inequality, and injustice.
Contribute to effective public policies that aim to improve the wellbeing of communities.
Promote cultural understanding, diversity, and critical thinking, shaping the perspectives of future generations.

What you could study

Urban sociology
Individuals and society
Applied ethics
Nature and society
Media and crime
Mobilisation, social movements, and protest

Study options

Options to study in this field include:

undergraduate courses

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Ask which modules they really enjoyed.
Find out how easy it was for them to make friends on their course.
Do they have any tips on your personal statement?
Did they do anything to prep for uni before they went?
Are there books, podcasts or YouTube channels they would recommend?

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Ella

University of Lincoln

Criminology - BA (Hons)

Hello! I’m Ella I’ve been a student at Lincoln for 2 years and am loving it! I am hoping it will help me get into my future career in probation services. I was very nervous when starting university and it took a while to settle in but as soon as I found my people I have loved every second. I’m excited to help answer questions and put your mind at ease on any worries you may be having about any aspect of university life. I'm super happy to provide advice and reasurrance to ensure you all have the best time in your university journey!

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Jordan

Lancaster University

Language, Culture and Translation

Where exactly I want to be in the future, I have absolutely no idea - but I do know that I love what I study, and if it's somehow related to languages I will probably enjoy it! I love to find new people to speak to in my different languages. Speaking is my favourite part of languages, but I do enjoy a good ole bit of grammar (I understand this is peculiar...) I love doing translations and understanding how to switch between two different codes of languages to express the same meaning - fascinating stuff!! I have a mix of hobbies which are quite unrelated. I like trying new things and figuring out what I do and don't like doing - it's a great way to learn more about yourself

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Abbey

Leeds Trinity University

Criminology with Police Studies BA Combined (Hons)

I am looking at going into the police after university and doing their graduate detective program. I enjoy watching all sorts of true crime documentaries.

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Grace

University of Suffolk

BSc (Hons) Criminology

Hi, I’m Grace. I’m currently studying at The University of Suffolk in my home town, Ipswich. I chose to do my degree in criminology, with the hopes to go on to do a conversion course into law and hopefully go into law one day as a career.

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Dani

University of Essex

Criminology

I am a criminology student from the north of england who is hoping to progress and grow during my last year at Essex. I enjoy spending time with friends and listening to music. I’d say I’m very social and happy to meet new people. In terms of career plans, I haven’t 100% decided on what I’d like to do after graduating.

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Juliet

University of Essex

Sociology

Hey everyone! I'm Juliet, a final-year Sociology student. In my free time I love to sing, dance and act. I help run the theatre arts society, planning games nights, themed dress up nights and much more for anyone who loves theatre! I am also greatly involved in student life, in my roles as student ambassador, student representative and peer mentor. I love supporting my peers have the best time at Essex! In my third year I completed a year studying at the University of Windsor in Canada, making amazing friends, adapting to a new education system and of course travelling. I'm a major globetrotter, having visited 17 countries and counting! Ask me anything about my adventures, or if you're curious about student life, clubs, societies or anything university related. I can't wait to chat with you!

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Grace

University of Lincoln

Criminology - BA (Hons)

Before I came to University, I studied criminology, psychology and law at A-Level which is where my interest in all things crime sparked, hence why i decided to carry this on in University. When I graduate in September I plan to move abroad for a year to experience life in a different country and then would love to come back to the UK and join the police force. I have really enjoyed my time at the University of Lincoln so far and I am excited to spend my final year here and I am happy to answer any questions about the city, the university or my course :))

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Jasmine

University of Lincoln

Sociology - BA (Hons)

My name is Jasmine and I am a third year student. After I graduate, I hope to do a Masters Degree in Education, followed by a PGCE year to become a secondary school teacher. I'm currently doing supply work in Lincoln secondary schools and am absolutely loving it! I enjoy exercise and going to the gym; recently discovering gym classes such as zumba and spin where I go with my flat mates after uni. We also play badminton together each week, something I had not played before starting university and has become one of my favourite social activities!! English was my favourite subject in school and I love reading all types of fiction books and watching films, especially with my close friends. I listen to a lot of music, being a huge Taylor Swift fan, and I enjoy going to concerts, with my most recent being the JLS reunion tour and my next being Taylor Swift this summer!

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Joyce

University of Lincoln

Conservation of Cultural Heritage - MA

Greetings from Hong Kong! Hotel Management graduate with few years of experience working in government subsidiary and MNC. I am currently pursuing my dream of heritage conservation in the UK.

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Susanna

City, University of London

Criminology and Sociology BSc (Hons)

Hi, I’m Susanna I’m in my 2nd year at City studying Sociology & Criminology, I really enjoy this course. Criminology, with its focus on crime, law, and justice, has been a particular passion of mine. I’ve delved into the psychological and sociological factors that contribute to criminal behavior, as well as the societal responses to crime. My research often intersects with issues of social justice, exploring how policies and practices in the criminal justice system impact different communities. Outside of academia, I’m deeply engaged in activities that enrich my understanding of the world around me. I enjoy volunteering with organizations focused on criminal justice reform, where I can see firsthand the real-world implications of the theories I study. This hands-on experience is something I believe is crucial for anyone interested in this field.

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Oluwaseun

University of East Anglia UEA

Global Development

Before UEA, I spent 7 years as a Global Development Practitioner, tackling social challenges in developing countries. This study break is helping me learn a whole lot about my field and I look forward to continuing to drive social impact on a global scale.

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Kat

University of South Wales

BSc (Hons) Applied Cyber Security

I'm apart of a society in USW with a great community. I love video games and talk to new people. I am also dyslexia, so if you're curious about the support available and the process in uni, just give me a shout! Also, I'm living in the accommodation, so any questions about it, feel free to ask, I'm here to help!

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AshaJyothi

University of South Wales

MSc Cyber Security

Hi! I'm Jyothi, a student ambassador, studying MSc. in Cybersecurity. My future aspiration is to specialize in Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) within cybersecurity, ensuring organizations adhere to regulations and implement robust security measures. I aim to leverage my passion for technology and commitment to excellence to create a safer digital environment. Let's chat about cybersecurity, engineering, campus life, and student accommodation to help you make the most of your university journey!

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Emilia

Staffordshire University

Sociology, Criminology and Terrorism

I’m in my first year of my PhD in sociology, with a BSc in Criminology and an MA in Sociology and Social Justice. This is a subject I’ve had a lot of passion for, for the best part of a decade, and actually being able to study it has been amazing.

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Binita

Staffordshire University

Cyber Security (London)

Hello, my name is Binita! I am a Cyber Security student at the University of Staffordshire (based at the London campus). I enjoy learning about ethical hacking and cyber security practices, in addition to getting involved in practical lab activities. If you have any questions regarding the university or your course (no matter how big or small), please reach out and I will do what I can to help you.

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Example module

"My favourite modules include racism and race, relationships and education. These are my main interests in sociology and I would love in the future to be able to help make changes to help those being suppressed and unequal."

Second year sociology student, University of Manchester

Example assignment

"I did a course paper on a health issue of my choice from a specific societal area. i created my own question which allowed for creativity and individuality. Mine looked at abortion laws in the US and how this affects the health demographic."

Second year sociology student, University of Edinburgh

Subjects it's useful to have studied first

Some sociology courses or apprenticeships will have requirements for previous qualifications in certain subjects. Entry requirements vary, so always check with the provider.

English language

Psychology

Economics

Media studies

Second year sociology student, University of Manchester

I was interested in a wide range of subjects, and so sociology’s multidisciplinary nature meant I could shape the degree to my changing interests.

Hard skills you'll develop

Statistical analysis
Qualitative research techniques
Data interpretation
Interviewing techniques

Soft skills you'll develop

Active listening
Cultural competence
Problem-solving
Writing and presentation skills

75% of students

studying sociology would recommend the subject to others

(UCAS subject guide survey 2023)

Careers: Where it can take you

Find out more about your career prospects from studying sociology. The following information is based on a typical social science professional role.

Available jobs

20,968 vacancies in the past year

6.51% growth over next eight years

Average salary

£38,249

Up to £64,523

Career options

Mathematics and social sciences

Social and humanities scientists

Actuaries, economists and statisticians

Marketing and sales

Market research interviewers

sociology-subject-guide.jpg

What is a… futurist sociologist?

A futurist sociologist combines the principles of sociology with the methodology of futurism to analyse current social trends, technological advancements, and cultural shifts in order to make predictions about the potential future changes in society. The role involves applying sociological theories and research methods to understand how various factors may shape the future landscape of human societies. This role is forward-thinking, speculative, and contributes to strategic planning in different areas, including business, government, and social policy.

Find your ideal career

Take our careers quiz to find your ideal job matched to your personality type.

Getting in: Entry requirements

Find out more about what you'll need to study sociology at university or as an apprenticeship.

Average requirements for undergraduate degrees

Entry requirements differ between university and course, but this should give you a guide to what is usually expected from sociology applicants.

A levels

BBB - CCC

Scottish Highers

BBCC

Vocational

BTEC DDM - MMM

Other Level 3/Level 6 qualifications (e.g. Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma or SQCF Level 6) may be accepted as an alternative

Other subjects you may be interested in

Explore further

Go deeper into topics around sociology with the following:

Discover Society

A helpful site where you can find articles on countless topics in the social sciences.
Thinking Allowed

A weekly podcast which covers new research on how our society works.
Reading

If you love reading, originally published in 1848, The Communist Manifesto is a favourite read among sociology students – especially those who enjoy researching Marxism.

Application advice

Whether it's personal statement tips or what to write in a cover letter for an apprenticeship application, our advice will help you get ahead in your sociology journey.

Skills, experiences, and interests to mention

Have you always been curious and like to read about current issues affecting our lives?
What motivates your desire to contribute positively to society?
Mention instances where you've observed social phenomena or patterns in your everyday life and reflect on how these experiences have inspired your curiosity about societal dynamics.

Have you any experience in community service, volunteer work, or social advocacy?
Do you enjoy critical discussions or debates, either in academic settings, online forums, or in-person conversations?
Demonstrate your awareness of current social issues by mentioning how you stay informed about global events, policy changes, or societal challenges through news sources, documentaries, or other media.

Personal statement guide

We asked admissions tutors to share their dos and don’ts for writing a strong and engaging sociology personal statement. Here's what they told us.

What's on this page?

Study options

Chat to a current sociology student

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Subjects it's useful to have studied first

Second year sociology student, University of Manchester

Careers: Where it can take you

Career options

What is a… futurist sociologist?

Getting in: Entry requirements

Average requirements for undergraduate degrees

Other subjects you may be interested in

Explore further

Discover Society

Thinking Allowed

Reading

Application advice

Explore courses

Explore other Subject guides

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How to find a job

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