You may be asking yourself, "Why should I study a Sociology degree?". Here's an introduction to the subject, and five reasons why we think you should consider it.
Sociology is the study of human behaviour and society – how it works, why it works, and how it could change. It’s a fascinating subject that covers all aspects of modern life on the planet. As a sociologist, you will look into social patterns, relationships, inequalities, and developments over time.
It's an exciting and vast area of study
Studying sociology goes beyond just reading about it, you will also be actively engaging in sociological practices. Sociology at BCU allows you to challenge conventional social norms and then apply this newfound understanding to your personal life encounters.
With sociology containing diverse topics, such as crime, culture, media, politics and identity, you’ll have plenty of career options and transferrable skills. Such an extensive background means you can apply for job roles across several industries. You may be investigating themes like Crime and Punishment, Media and Popular Culture, Racism and Equality and Identity and Black Arts Movement - to name a few.
Learn about different points of view
Sociology has always been a degree with a very diverse studentship. Having so many different life experiences in one place means that you are introduced to a range of ways of thinking. After all, Sociology is about looking at the world in different ways – and your classmates can help to illustrate this better than anything.
Your course will allow you to examine patterns and processes of inequality and the structure and dynamics of social hierarchies and power relations. You’ll be investigating why and how people shape their identities and the tensions and conflicts that these processes create.
Sociology at BCU
Interested in Sociology? Take a look at our courses and apply for the right course for you!
Hands-on placements
BCU has links with local, public and third-sector organisations that will help you make professional contacts and obtain voluntary work or placements, meaning you’ll be putting your skills into practice as you go along!
You can make a difference in the real world and go on placements in organisations such as the NHS, West Midlands Police, HM Prisons and Probation Services, Citizens Advice, local schools and youth mentoring services. Take a look at what it's like on placement.
Employability and professional skills are embedded throughout the programme, including communication, research and time management.
Rewarding careers
Sociology can be a very rewarding career. You can use your knowledge and understanding to tackle social issues and improve the quality of life for individuals.
Sociology is an adaptable area of study as you can combine it with two other subject areas – Criminology and Psychology. On a Sociology and Criminology pathway, you not only study society, but also crime and how the two are universally linked. Psychology and Sociology on the other hand looks to deeply explore why society is the way it is by examining the human psyche.
It's also a versatile subject area, with many of our graduates going on to work in many roles such as support workers, research consultants, teachers, and marketers at places such as Ipsos, National Grid, Catch22 and St Mary’s Hospice.
Sociology is ever-changing
Sociology isn’t a subject rooted in the past. It is always adapting to suit the society it is trying to study. That is why we were so proud to be the first university in Europe to offer a BA (Hons) degree in Black Studies. Already a well-established subject in America, BCU now also explores this very important subject in modern society.
As the world becomes more accepting of minorities and sub-cultures, sociology will continue to adapt, creating new degrees that aim to increase our understanding of the world we live in.
