Sociology

Focusing on patterns of human behaviour, the social relationships people form and the societies and wider cultures in which they dwell, sociologists strive to understand social structures and inequalities and how people act within these contexts. By considering key contemporary issues such as age, disability, immigration, health, the welfare state, ethnicity, sexuality and gender, and through adopting theoretical and evidence-based stances to critique society, sociologists can bring about transformative change to create a better world for all.

  • Top 10 in the UK for Student Satisfaction for the subject of Sociology (Complete University Guide 2024)
  • Focus on practical, field-based skills.
  • Research-led teaching.

Sociology
Courses

Undergraduate Courses

BSc Criminology and Sociology

  • UCAS CodeML93
  • Duration3 years
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BSc Psychology and Sociology

  • UCAS CodeLC38
  • Duration3 years
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BA Sociology

  • UCAS CodeL300
  • Duration3 years
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BA Sociology

  • UCAS CodeL30F
  • Duration4 years
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BA Sociology (with integrated year in Industry)

  • UCAS CodeL303
  • Duration4 years
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BA Sociology (with integrated year studying abroad)

  • UCAS CodeL302
  • Duration4 years
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BSc Sociology and Politics

  • UCAS CodeLL32
  • Duration3 years
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Postgraduate Courses

MA Society and Space

  • UCAS Code198L
  • Duration1 year
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Why study Sociology at Aberystwyth University?

  • We emphasise the value and significance of research methods training in Sociology, with hands-on research methods supervision and an intensive supervised data collection week in year two.
  • We integrate more applied perspectives into the teaching that we undertake on key contemporary issues where sociological theory can be applied and have real world significance (and, in doing so, help with the employability of our Sociology graduates).
  • We draw on our research strengths and to ensure that students are exposed to cutting-edge theoretical and empirical understandings analysed through a sociological lens.

Employability

Sociology provides important sought-after critical thinking skills, leading to a wide range of career opportunities in the public and private sector, including developing social policy for local and national government, working in charitable and voluntary organisations, police and probation services, social work, human resources, journalism, and media education. 

Facilities

Sociology students have access to the Think Tank, which provides a flexible space for collaborative student working. The Think Tank enables students to work on group and individual projects while being able to access staff and facilities in the department.  

Research

Research in Sociology at Aberystwyth examines intersections of age, disability, class, gender, sexuality, ‘race’ and ethnicity, in relation to key contemporary issues of risk (like the crisis in health care, immigration, the welfare state or the climate crisis) where sociological theory can be applied and have real world significance.

Study or Work Abroad

Aberystwyth University offers every student the opportunity to study, volunteer or work in another country either for an academic year, a single semester, or a few weeks during your holidays.

Find more information on our Global Opportunities webpages.

Studying through the medium of Welsh

Aberystwyth University prides itself on being a bilingual University. As a leading Welsh university, we are proud to offer dedicated support services and Halls of Residence for Welsh-speaking students, encouraging the sense of community and the feeling of a home away from home. Qualifying students will automatically receive the University's Welsh-medium scholarships and can also apply for Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol scholarships. Find out more about our Welsh Medium Scholarships here. 

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