IGCSE Sociology Course

Sociology is the study of people in society. It examines people as social beings on the individual, group and societal level. It can be defined as: ‘the scientific study of human social life, groups and societies.’  Sociology is thus a social science (like psychology or anthropology), rather than a physical one (such as physics, chemistry or biology). It is the task of the sociologist to unravel how ‘nurture’ or ‘social’ factors (rather than ‘nature’ (or genetic, biological or inherited factors, as in the study of biology) influence people at the level of the individual, group or wider society.

Sociologists consider how social and socially-influenced factors, such as family, education, ethnicity, social class and gender can play a part in shaping individual identities. Sociologists also consider group behaviour. For example, a sociologist may study how an office team work, or how people’s behaviour is affected by those of their colleagues or work associates. They may also question how factors such as gender or class influence our behaviours as individuals and in group contexts.

Sociologists also study society-at-large, and may consider the correlations between factors such as ethnicity or class, for example, and participation in wider structures such as government or education.

Call today to enrol on 0121 2880181.

There are no previous skills or qualifications required to register for this study programme. This course is open to students of all ages and backgrounds. Enrolments can be taken at anytime of the year unlike the traditional local college who tend only to enrol in September. Home Learning offers true flexibility. Enrol today by calling us on 0121 2880181 and be studying within 7 days!

Upon successfull completion of the exams student will be awarded the IGCSE qualification. Please note IGCSE's are the same as GCSE's and are accepted in the same way.

The course pack comes in paper format, delivered to your door within 7 days of enrolment. We will begin by looking at what the examination board will require of you in the way of examinations. You will be referred to what you need to do in terms of registration and arranging with an external centre for you to take the examinations.

Once the administration matters have been cleared up, we will look at the specification we will be following, namely the IGCSE in Sociology (0495). As part of your course, you will be supplied with the Study Guide for IGCSE and A Levels. Do make use of this as it has been written to help you with your studies and to supplement the specific information and guidance given in the course material itself.

Candidates must take both papers.

The papers have the following structure:

Paper 1: 2 hours and 30 minutes

• Candidates answer one compulsory question on sociological research methods and three optional questions on culture and socialisation; social stratification and inequality and power and authority.
• This examination equals 60 percent of total marks.
• The compulsory question in Section A will be based on source material. The question will carry one third of the marks for the paper. Candidates should spend approximately 45 minutes answering this question. Section A will test Syllabus Unit 1.
• Sections B to D will consist of structured questions based on stimulus material. The stimulus will take the form of a short quotation or statement from a sociological source. Sections B to D will test Syllabus Units 2 to 4. There will be two questions related to each of these units.

Paper 2: 1 hour and 45 minutes

• Candidates answer three optional questions on the family; education; crime, deviance and social control and the mass media.
• This examination equals 40 percent of total marks.
• The three questions will be structured around some stimulus material. The stimulus will take the form of a short quotation or statement from a sociological source. Candidates will answer three questions from Sections A to D.
• Paper 2 will test Syllabus Units 5 to 8. There will be a choice of two questions related to each of these units.

We will be explaining what the references above to the’ syllabus units’ mean as we go through the course. You don’t need to worry about this now.

Q: When can I enrol?

The beauty of distance learning means that students can enrol at anytime they wish 365 days of the year. Enrolments and payment can be made online or by calling our office on 0121 2880181.

Q: How soon after enrolment can start studying?

Students would normally receive their course materials within seven days of enrolment. Materials for this course are posted out via Courier.

Q: Is there any funding available towards the course fees?

UK Open College is a privately run college therefore we do not have access to funding

Q: Do you offer any discounts for the unemployed or low income households?

Unfortunately discounts are not available

Q: Can I pay monthly for my course?

Yes! Please see the fees tab for further details

Q: How do I know whether this is the right course for me?

In truth we cannot be sure if this course or indeed home learning will meet every students needs. To help we have a money back guarantee scheme in place which allows students to receive and inspect the course materials for seven days to establish whether this course is the ideal course for them. If it's not simply return it via recoded delivery within the seven day period for a full refund. Please be aware this is a strict seven day scheme and no refunds are processed once this period has expired.

Q: Is this course available to International students?

Yes! We currently have students all over the world studying with the college. With todays technology distance is no barrier at all. Additional charges for delivery of course materials will apply.

Q: What if I have questions relating to my course or have problems understanding some of the questions?

No problem! All students have access to a personal tutor for the duration of their course with whom they may correspond with. You are not on your own when you study with us! We really do want you to pass your course!

Q: Will I have to purchase any additional books or materials?

No! We provide all the required course materials to enable you to complete your studies.

Q: Where are the exams held?

Exam centres are located across the UK and would normally be taken through your local college. We would encourage you to contact your local college/sixth form and double check they will accept you as an exam only candidate before enrolling. When consulting them, take with you details of the specification as they are far more willing to listen to your request if they can see immediately what will be involved on their part. Do stress that there is no coursework component involved, merely one exam of two hours. Have the syllabus number to hand as well.

Q: Do I have to arrange my own exams?

Yes all students are responsible for arranging their own exams. We do not offer this service. Exam fees are payable direct to the examination centre. The examinations are available in January and June each year. You do need to ensure that your centre is able and willing to handle your entry. They are not obliged to accept you as a candidate so do not make any assumption that you will be able to do the exams when you wish.

Q: Who is the awarding body?

Edexcel is the awarding body. Vist them for more information http://www.cie.org.uk/profiles/students/ukcandidates/#contacts

Course Fee: Starting at: £369.00