Sociology

Sociology focuses on the relationships between individuals and society. It revolves around examining how personal attitudes and experiences relate to wider issues, understanding how group phenomena can give collective meaning to an individual's actions, and on social change and the ways forces, like globalisation, impact upon society.

With a strong understanding of sociological analysis and theory, you can explore every facet of society – from crime and deviance, religion and belief, migration, race and racism, to new genetics.

Study sociology at Sheffield and you will train in research techniques, information retrieval, critical analysis and communication using a range of styles and formats. You’ll develop your skills as a social researcher and demonstrate how you can use the theoretical frameworks and methodological tools of the discipline to investigate and report on a significant social or sociological issue.

In your third year, you’ll explore current thinking on wide-ranging issues like gender, queer theory, migration, sex work, and the sociology of evil. You'll also complete your own research project, on a topic of your choice, working closely with an expert dissertation supervisor.

This is a degree where both the subject matter and the methods of learning and assessment keep pace with modern society. Our academic team will use their research to guide your learning experience, and support your learning through different forms of coursework such as creating vlogs, zines and delivering presentations.

Why study this course?

Variety, choice and flexibility: Sociological studies encompasses sociologists, social policy analysts, criminologists, social workers and digital society experts under one roof. This means your optional modules will stretch your mind and your abilities, and bring you into contact with students from a range of other courses such as digital media and society, journalism and education, to name a few.

Greater employability: A dedicated module in third year ('Value of Sociology') helps students understand the transferable skills gained from the degree, which can be applied in a range of careers.

You are the focus: Student reps, student voice week and our ambassadors all shape how our department runs. The Sociology Society, or SocSoc, is a group of students that organise a variety of social events including an annual ball, plus volunteering initiatives, and socials across the year, as well as dedicated learning support for students in the department.