Program Overview

BA (Hons) Sociology

Course Overview

This three-year programme combines an understanding of traditions in sociological thought with the application of social theory, knowledge, and practices, enabling students to build their own special interests throughout the programme. The programme aims to create proactive, innovative, and solution-focused practitioners with the depth of vision to challenge the inevitabilities of present disadvantage. Research is at the core of the programme throughout all three years.

Key Details

• Recruiting to: UK / RoI / Settled in UK
• Course Location: Lancaster
• Institute: Institute of Education, Arts and Society
• Delivery Style: In Person
• Course Duration: Full-time: 3 Years
• Course Start Point: September
• Award: BA (Hons)

Course Structure

What you will learn

In this programme, students will learn how social theory, research, and practice can address issues like epistemic injustice, rural and coastal deprivation, and social disadvantage. The aim is to develop proactive, solution-focused practitioners capable of challenging current inequalities. Research is central to the programme, with students exploring areas like criminology, gender studies, sociology of religion, and social ethics while also developing essential social research skills. In the third year, students can apply these skills through placements with local organizations, conducting small research projects.

Teaching & Assessment

How you will learn

Students will learn through a blend of lectures, seminars, and practical research activities designed to provide both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience. Research is integrated throughout all three years, with students engaging in active projects that apply what they've learned in real-world contexts. They will take part in discussions, group work, and workshops to explore key issues such as social injustice and inequality.

How you will be assessed

Details of teaching and assessment will be confirmed upon course validation.

Entry Requirements

• 104-112 UCAS Tariff Points
• GCSE English and Mathematics at grade 4/C or above
• Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths and Adult Literacy and Numeracy are also accepted

Qualifications

• GCSEs: GCSE English and Maths at C/4 or above
• A-levels: BCC - BBC
• T-levels: P (C+) - M. All subjects are accepted for entry to this course
• Access to HE: 15 Credits at Distinction and 30 at Merit
• CACHE Technical Level 3 and Level 3 Extended Diploma: C - B
• OCR Cambridge Technical & Edexcel/Pearson BTEC Level 3 (National) Extended Diploma: MMM - DMM
• Scottish Highers: BBBC - BBBA
• Irish LC Highers: B1, B2x3 - B1x3, B2

Fair Admissions

When you apply, our Admissions specialists will review your whole application. We are looking for your potential to succeed, so we will assess your qualifications, any relevant work experience, your personal statement, and references.

Selection Criteria

As part of the application and selection process, we are looking for your commitment to Sociology. In your personal statement, you should demonstrate your motivation for choosing this course and reflect upon any experience you have gained.

Contextual Admissions

Going to higher education can transform a person’s life. We use contextual admissions to make sure that we are accessible to everyone who has the potential to succeed. Qualifications and grades are important, but they are considered alongside other information that helps universities to identify potential and widen access to university-level study. For some individuals, the disadvantages they have experienced in their life mean that they have not been able to demonstrate their full academic potential. Where a person lives and their personal circumstances can all affect their educational attainment.

We take this context into account and look for an applicant’s potential when making admission decisions. The University of Cumbria will make offers at the bottom of any UCAS Tariff range to applicants that live in postal code regions with the lowest participation in Higher Education (Polar 4 quintile 1 – you can check your postcode here), applicants that are estranged from their parents, are care leavers or have caring responsibilities or are in receipt of or received free school meals during their secondary education. Attendance at our Masterclasses and Summer Schools will also allow applicants to receive an offer lower within the tariff range. (T&Cs apply)

Returning to Education

If you are over 21 and returning to study after being in relevant employment for a minimum of 3 years and do not meet the published entry requirements for Year 1 of our degree courses, please do not assume you are not qualified to join us. Our experienced Admissions and Academic staff will review your prior qualifications and professional experience to support your application.