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Sociology IGCSE

CAIE IGCSE
Studying sociology will give you a better idea of how different groups in society relate to each other, the way modern life has developed and the impact of conflict, culture and politics on society.
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Overview of IGCSE Sociology 

It’s often said that sociology’s function is to reveal what is hidden: why do people behave the way they do? What governs our everyday interactions, and what drives social change? If you’re fascinated by questions like these, then GCSE Sociology is your qualification.

As a cornerstone of social science, sociology overlaps several unique disciplines that study society, such as economics, psychology, and political science. It provides a range of essential, transferable skills, including analysis, problem-solving, critical thinking, and research, all of which are invaluable in just about any career, as well as further education avenues.

What you will learn

  1. Unit 1 Research methods

    • How do sociologists approach the study of society?
    • What types of data and evidence do sociologists use?
    • How do sociologists investigate society?

    In this unit, you will explore how sociologists approach the study of society, the types of data and evidence they use, and the ways in which they investigate society.

  2. Unit 2 - Identity: self and society

    • How do we learn our identity?
    • How does society control us?
    • What influences our social identity?

    In this unit, you will explore your identity. How society controls us and they various influences which impact our social identity.

  3. Unit 3 - Social stratification and inequality

    • What is social stratification?
    • What attempts have been made to reduce social inequalities?
    • How has globalisation affected inequalities between societies?

    In this unit, you will explore what social stratification is. Exploring the attempts that have been made to reduce social inequalities. Lastly, looking into the ways globalisation has affected inequalities between societies.

  4. Unit 4 - Family

    • What are the different types of families?
    • What is the role of the family for the individual and society?
    • How is family life changing?

    In this unit, you will look at the different types of families, the role of the family for the individual and society, and how family life is changing.

  5. Unit 5 - Education

    • What is education and schooling?
    • What are the roles and functions of education?
    • What factors help to explain differences in educational achievement and experience?

    In this unit, you will explore education and schooling, including its roles and functions. You will also understand the factors that help explain differences in educational achievement and experience.

  6. Unit 6 - Crime, deviance and social control

    • What are crime, deviance and social control?
    • What are the patterns of and explanations for crime and deviance?
    • How is crime dealt with in different societies

    In this unit, you will explore what crime, deviance, and social control mean. Including what the patterns of and explanations for crime and deviance are. Lastly, exploring how crime is dealt with in different societies.

Awarding Body

Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) is the world’s largest provider of A-level courses and GCSE courses, qualifications and exams, delivering assessments to over 8 million learners in over 170 countries.

View our other Cambridge Assessment International Education qualifications.

GCSE Sociology Course Outcome

Upon successful completion of this home learning course, you will receive a GCSE in Sociology issued by AQA. This syllabus (8192) has been chosen specifically because it is best suited to distance learning.

How is GCSE Sociology assessed or examined?

Sociology GCSE Exams

You’ll be required to complete the two IGCSE standard written exams, all of which will be taken in the same session.

    • Paper 1 (Research Methods, Identity and Inequality): 2 hours, 50% of marks

    • Paper 2 (Family, Education and Crime): 2 hours, 50% of marks

We guarantee a seat in one of our exam centres around the UK. Check where your closest exam centre is. Or, if you prefer, you can find your own.

Assignments

There is no coursework to complete during your course. However, you will need to complete three assignments. These do not contribute to your final grade but allow you to submit work to your tutor for marking and feedback. This will help you to gauge your progress as you work through the course.

Entry requirements for GCSE Sociology

There are no formal entry requirements for this level two GCSE Sociology course; however, it is recommended that you have an intermediate ability to read and write in English.

Course code: X809

Sociology IGCSE

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Frequently Asked Questions

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What subjects go well with GCSE Sociology?

Subjects such as Psychology, History and Biology go together well with GCSE Sociology.

How many exams are there for GCSE Sociology?

You must complete two standard GCSE Sociology written exams worth 50% of your final grade.

Can I do A-level Sociology without GCSE/IGCSE Sociology?

Yes! You do not need a GCSE/IGCSE Sociology qualification to study the subject at A-level.

What can I do with GCSE Sociology?

A GCSE qualification in Sociology can lead to several different careers, including community work, marketing executive and further education teacher.

How do you get copies of GCSE certificates?

Contact your exam board to get a replacement or copy of a GCSE exam certificate.

Can I do GCSEs courses online?

Absolutely! With Oxbridge, you can study online and learn from the comfort of your home at a pace that suits you.

How do GCSE grades work?

GCSEs are now graded from 9 to 1, with 9 being the highest and 1 being on the opposite end of the scale. 

Do you have past papers that I can use to practice for my exams?

Yes! We have GCSE and A-Level past papers. Our past papers cover a variety of subjects and awarding bodies. We are adding more papers all the time.

Can I sign up for a Student Beans account and get Student Discounts?

Yes! One of the many benefits of being an Oxbridge student is that you get access to great discounts with a Student Beans account! Eligibility criteria apply and acceptance is made at the discretion of Student Beans. Find out how to sign up.

Exam Results: I need to resit my exams, can I enrol with Oxbridge?

At Oxbridge, we take enrolments all year round. Once you're enrolled, you'll be able to get started right away. Studying online means your work and revision fit around you and your lifestyle. For example, if you have a part-time job or need to study alongside other subjects, you'll be able to find time to fit our online courses into your schedule. Enjoy flexible, convenient, affordable learning, fully supported by expert tutors who are passionate about their subjects. We pride ourselves on the quality of our course tutors and know that they hold the key to success. Whatever your goals, dreams or aspirations, Oxbridge is here to help you facilitate them.

Exam Results: When will I receive my certificate?

Oxbridge students who sat their exams through our partnership exam centres will usually receive their certificates in November. Certificates will be sent out by recorded delivery.
Wondering what to do next? There are so many options available, it's important to get the right advice. Whether your choice is to continue onto further education, go into job training or get an apprenticeship and whether your grades are high or low - there are always options! Speak to an adviser today to see how we can support you on your next steps...

Exam Results: I didn't pass English or Maths, what do I do next?

First of all, don't worry - everything will be okay. Unfortunately, if you didn't get a grade 4 or higher (equivalent to a C or above) in your English and Maths, you will have to re-take it in order to pass. Oxbridge is ready and available to support you with this. Get in touch via live chat, phone or email.

Exam Results: I have individual unit marks, but no overall grade. What should I do?

Check for a cash-in code on your statement of entry. If there isn't one, cash-in may not have been applied for. Cash-in can be applied for retrospectively from your exam centre and once entered you can expect an overall grade in one week.

Exam Results: I haven't done as well as I expected in my exams. Is there anything I can do?

Yes! There are a number of post-result services available. Your entering centre will be able to provide you with further information and will process any requests for you. If you're not sure where to turn, our friendly learning advisers are on hand and ready to help you.

How do I choose what GCSEs to take?

Selecting GCSEs is a highly personal decision that will be influenced by factors such as your educational and career goals, your skills and strengths, and the subjects you enjoy (or don’t enjoy). To help you decide on the right GCSEs for you and your future, we’ve written a detailed guide on choosing GCSE subjects.

Can GCSEs help you get a place at university?

Gaining GCSEs is the first step toward sitting a uni degree. You’ll need GCSE courses or IGCSE courses to progress to A-level courses, which remain the most prevalent means of accessing higher education. At Oxbridge, we offer both GCSE and IGCSE courses, which are qualifications of equal merit with the added benefit of being internationally recognised. Both GCSEs and IGCSEs can be studied by adults online.

How long does it take to gain a GCSE as an adult?

GCSEs are typically studied across a period of 2 years however, our fast-track GCSE option enables you to complete and qualify for your chosen GCSEs within a year.

Do Universities prefer IGCSEs or GCSEs?

Universities prefer neither iGCSEs or GCSEs. Universities recognise both iGCSEs and GCSEs and treat them equally.

Why study GCSE courses or IGCSE courses with Oxbridge?

When you enrol on a course with us, you’re really enrolling into a partnership. We set up our online learning platform to help people achieve the grades and qualifications they need to realise their aspirations. We do everything we can to help make our students’ dreams come true. Our learning platform is award-winning, and our course content is written by Oxbridge subject experts and delivered by tutors who are just as passionate about their teaching as they are in helping you succeed. On average, by studying Oxbridge online GCSE courses, we find that our students get grades that are 20% higher and pass around 30% quicker than students in traditional colleges. We’d love to help you do the same! If you aren’t sure which course is right for you, speak to one of our learning advisers, they’d be more than happy to help you find the right path.

Why Study GCSE courses or IGCSE courses online?

GCSEs remain a basic requirement for further education and some workplaces, so adding them or an IGCSE equivalent to your CV can be essential for personal success. Studying these GCSE qualifications online has opened up a world of possibilities for people who haven’t been able to learn around their jobs or family commitments before. If traditional education has held you back long enough, take the reins and build a future you’re proud of.

Is IGCSE harder than GCSE?

International General Certificate of Secondary Education courses (ICGSEs) cover some of the same subjects as GCSE’s such as Geography, English Language and the sciences, but they are recognised internationally. The level of difficulty is equal to a GCSE course, and universities view both qualifications as equal.

Can Adults take GCSE Courses?

It’s never too late to gain a GCSE qualification. Oxbridge teach thousands of adult GCSE courses every year. So, whether there’s a specific career you’ve always been interested in but couldn’t pursue because you didn’t have the right qualifications, or you want to take up a college or university course, an online General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) course can help get you there. The same can be said for our adult A-level courses too.

What does GCSE stand for?

GCSE stands for: General Certificate of Secondary Education and IGCSE stands for 'International General Certificate of Secondary Education'. Whatever your aspirations and goals for the future, you’ll most likely need GCSEs to get there. Introduced in 1988, the General Certificate of Secondary Education remains the UK’s primary recognised certificate of foundation-level education and is viewed by employers, colleges and universities as the minimum expected standard for prospective candidates.

What will you learn on this Sociology GCSE course?

During this fascinating, interactive GCSE course you’ll look at key sociological approaches, how the family has changed over time, how the UK family differs from those around the world, the role education plays in society, and many other intriguing topics. 

Why study Sociology GCSE online?

Written to the latest AQA specification, you’ll have everything you need to succeed, starting with a clear induction and well-structured assignments to help you to develop the skills and knowledge you need to prepare for the exam. 

Will you be required to complete a reading list?

There are no essential set texts. The course includes some recommended books that you may wish to refer to for additional reading.

What will you learn on this GCSE Psychology course?

You’ll work your way through a host of intriguing topics, including how our memory works, how our brains develop as we learn and grow, and the research methods that professional psychologists use for collecting and analysing data.

How much do exams cost?

Many of our courses do not require exams however, A-levels, GCSEs and some other courses do require exams to complete the qualification. Exam fees are additional to the cost of the course and prices vary depending on the course and where you sit them - find out more. Planning on studying A-levels or GCSEs with us? We can add your exams during enrolment and blend them into your monthly payment plan if you wish. If you're not ready to book your exam(s) yet, you can book them at a later date - all of the information is available on MyOxbridge under NEAS and Exams.