Sociology

The BA Sociology programme at the University of Surrey offers students a comprehensive and engaging exploration of society, social institutions, and human behavior. Designed to develop a deep understanding of contemporary social issues, this programme covers a wide range of topics including social inequality, crime and deviance, family dynamics, globalization, and the impact of technology on social life. Throughout the course, students will examine diverse perspectives and theoretical frameworks, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills that are essential in today’s interconnected world. The programme combines rigorous academic study with practical applications, providing opportunities for research projects, internships, and engagement with community organizations. Students will learn to conduct empirical research, analyze data, and communicate their findings effectively. The curriculum also emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations in social research and policy development. Graduates of the BA Sociology programme are well-equipped for careers in areas such as social research, policy analysis, community work, journalism, and further academic study. With a strong focus on employability, the course incorporates guest lectures, workshops, and field visits to enhance practical skills and professional networks. The university’s vibrant campus environment, combined with access to state-of-the-art facilities and a diverse student body, creates an enriching setting for academic and personal growth. Whether students aim to contribute to social change, engage in research, or pursue postgraduate studies, the Sociology programme at the University of Surrey provides a solid foundation for a rewarding career in understanding and shaping society.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 10790 Year (EEA)
• EUR 15260 Year (Non-EEA)

UK/EU Students -£9,000.00 ;
Overseas Students - £12,735.00

• English

Course Content

Year 1 (FHEQ Level 4)

Year 1 provides a broad-based curriculum, including Introduction to Classical Sociological Theory; Introduction to 20th Century Sociological Theory; Sociology of Contemporary Societies (with Study Skills); Popular Culture and Everyday Life; Contemporary British Politics; Introduction to Research Methods; Qualitative Field Methods; Quantitative Methods 1.

• Introduction to Classical Sociological Theory
• Sociology of Contemporary Societies (with Study Skills)
• Popular Culture and Everyday Life
• Introduction to 20th Century Sociological Theory
• Introduction to Research Methods
• Qualitative Field Methods
• Quantitative Methods 1

Year 2 (FHEQ Level 5)

During Year 2, you study modules in Contemporary Sociological Theory; Sociological Theory: Criticism and Description; Doing Research by Asking Questions; Quantitative Methods 2. In addition, you choose four out of a range of sociology options which includes a Group Research Project; Analysing Media; Sociology of Gender; Sociology of Work; Poverty, Welfare and the State; Migration and the Politics of Identity; Researching Bodies; Sociology of Political Systems; Sociology of the Arts; Sociology of Religion; Sociology of Health and Illness; Television Entertainment; Fan Cultures: Media, Audiences and Identity.

Core modules:

• Contemporary Sociological Theory
• Sociological Theory: Criticism and Description
• Doing Research by Asking Questions
• Quantitative Methods 2

Optional modules:

• Sociology of Work
• Analysing Media
• Sociology of Religion
• Migration and the Politics of Identity
• Sociology of Health and Illness
• Sociology of the Arts
• Sociology of Political Systems
• Poverty, Welfare and the State
• Researching Bodies
• Group Research Project
• Television Entertainment
• Sociology of Gender
• Fan Cultures: Media, Audiences and Identity

Professional Training year (optional)

Our Professional Training placement programme gives you the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during your first two years of study in a work environment whilst receiving training and undertaking projects with real responibilities. Companies and organisations that have participated in the scheme include the Home Office, the House of Lords, the Metropolitan Police, the British Market Research Bureau, Guildford Pupil Referral Unit, Marks & Spencer and IBM.

Year 3 (FHEQ Level 6)

In Year 3, you are able to choose five sociology options to study, from a range including: Sociology of Sexualities; Cultures of Race and Racism; Sociology of Education; Sociology of Childhood; Popular Music and Society; The Sociology of Sociology; Advanced Qualitative Research Methods; Work and Workers in the 21st Century; Sociology of Mental Health; Medicine and the Body; Cultural Organisations and Industries; Crime, Ethnicity and Racism; Music, Media and New Technology; Media and Cultural Globalisation; Understanding Youth Cultures; Fans: Emotion and Affect. A third of the final year is spent doing an individual project chosen according to your interests and written up as an 8,000–12,000-word dissertation.

• Double-weighted Dissertation

Optional modules:

• Cultures of Race and Racism
• Sociology of Education
• The Sociology of Sociology
• Medicine and the Body
• Sociology of Mental Health
• Sociology of Sexualities
• Sociology of Childhood
• Advanced Qualitative Research Methods
• Cultural Organisations and Industries
• Work and Workers in the 21st Century
• Music, Media and New Technology
• Popular Music and Society
• Fans: Emotion and Affect
• Understanding Youth Cultures
• Media and Cultural Globalisation
• Crime, Ethnicity and Racism

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

A-level

ABB

We do not include General Studies or Critical Thinking in our offers.

BTEC (QCF Level 3) Extended Diploma

DDM

European Baccalaureate

74%

International Baccalaureate

34 points

Other international qualifications

If you are an international student and you don’t meet the entry requirements to this degree, we offer the International Foundation Year.

Required subjects

GCSE English Language and Mathematics at grade C or above (or equivalent).

Selection process

Offers are normally made in terms of grades. Suitable candidates will be invited to an Applicant Day. During the visit to the University the candidate can find out more about the programme and meet staff and students.

English language requirements

Non-native speakers of English will normally be required to have IELTS 6.5 or above, with a minimum of 6.0 in each sub-skill (or equivalent).

We offer intensive English language pre-sessional courses, designed to take you to the level of English ability and skill required for your studies here.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Surrey.

Funding

Bursaries and scholarships

We encourage applications from everyone with the ability to study for a Surrey degree, and understand that finance is a factor that affects most people’s decisions. We are committed to making sure that we offer support for students who might need it.

Our bursaries and scholarships are among the most competitive in the country, with both merit-based and means-tested awards available.

http://www.surrey.ac.uk/discover/undergraduate-tuition-fees-bursaries-scholarships

Sociology at the University of Surrey offers a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to develop students' understanding of social structures, institutions, and processes. The program emphasizes critical analysis of contemporary social issues, equipping students with research skills and theoretical knowledge needed for a range of careers in social research, policy, community work, and beyond. The curriculum includes core modules such as Social Theory, Social Research Methods, and Contemporary Social Issues, alongside optional modules allowing students to specialize in areas like criminology, gender studies, or globalisation. The university employs a mix of lectures, seminars, and practical projects, fostering an engaging learning environment. Students benefit from access to dedicated academic support, modern facilities, and opportunities for work placements and internships, enhancing employability. The program encourages global perspectives and intercultural understanding, preparing graduates for careers both in the UK and internationally. The interdisciplinary nature of Sociology at Surrey ensures that students develop analytical and communication skills, critical thinking, and a nuanced understanding of social diversity and inequality. The program also offers pathways to postgraduate study, including master's degrees in Sociology, Social Research, and related fields. With a strong focus on contemporary social issues, research-led teaching, and practical experience, Surrey's Sociology program aims to produce graduates capable of making meaningful contributions to society through informed analysis and innovative solutions.