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Sociology

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Photo: Corbis / crowded station / Sociology / Open University

Think how things have changed in the last fifty years. Societies are more multicultural, family structures are more fluid, employment is more mobile and transient. And while the gap between the rich and the poor may have widened, the great divide between generations seems to have narrowed.

Sociology’s broad scope and a strong perspective on our world make it a highly popular subject with OU students. You’ll understand more about how societies develop and the compelling forces that shape our behaviour, values and identity. And, in making more sense of the world we live in, you’ll come to know yourself better.

Our courses and qualifications promise a rich learning experience. As well as enabling you to contribute to debates on many different topics, you’ll develop career skills that are useful in areas such as central and local government, charity, commerce, education, human resources, the voluntary sector and welfare services.

Where to start in Sociology

Social change issues and debates are a huge part of the media. A good way of preparing for your studies would be to read a good quality newspaper, and to follow coverage of debates through the internet, television documentaries and in radio analysis programmes. We particularly recommend the study of either Introducing the social sciences (DD101) or Introducing the social sciences - part 1 (DD131) and Introducing the social sciences - part 2 (DD132) as these courses will develop the study skills, the knowledge and the understanding that you’ll need for the successful completion of further study in this subject.

Worried about your ability? Or the time it will take? If you're a UK resident you can start with one of our Openings courses: short courses with lots of support and no exams, giving you a gradual introduction to your subject and the world of studying.

Don't forget that if you need help considering options you can talk to an adviser. And if you have some previous study experience you may qualify for credit transfer.

Degrees

  • Social Sciences
    How does society work? And how does it change? Studying social science can change the way you look at the world forever.
  • Social Sciences with Sociology
    How does society work? And how does it change? Studying social science with sociology can change the way you look at the world forever.
  • Open degree
    The BA/BSc Open Degree provides a flexible way to combine a range of courses from different subjects either to suit your particular career or personal interests, or to complete studies you have started elsewhere.

Courses in Sociology

See the list of all our individual courses in Sociology.

Postgraduate options

If you already have a degree, you may want to see postgraduate courses and qualifications in Social Sciences.

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