Why Leeds?
With great music venues, culture, shopping, and parks - we've got it all. Leeds city centre has been named one of the Best Places to Live in the UK*.
*The Sunday Times Best Places to Live Guide, 2026
Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Pre-register for Clearing
This course is available in Clearing. Apply now if you've got your results via 0113 812 3113, or pre-register before Results Day.
Undergraduate BA (Hons)
Available in clearingSociology
Question the world around you and challenge assumptions. On this sociology degree, you’ll explore social issues, understand society, and create positive change.
Course overview
-
L300 -
L27 -
City Campus -
Full-Time -
3 Years -
21 Sep 2026
Society in a changing world
Why do inequalities persist? How do culture, politics, and the media influence our lives? What drives social change, and who has the power to shape it? On this sociology degree, you’ll explore the big questions facing society today and discover how social forces affect communities locally and globally.
You’ll learn to see beyond the headlines, challenge taken-for-granted assumptions, and uncover the hidden structures that shape everyday life. Through engaging debates, hands-on research, and creative assessments, you’ll gain new perspectives on your own experiences while studying how wider social structures influence identities, opportunities, and life chances.
Alongside exploring the rich intellectual tradition of sociological theory and contemporary social challenges, you’ll examine how inequality is created, maintained, and challenged within society. You’ll also consider sociology’s role in shaping public debate, informing policy and driving social change, equipping you with the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful difference in the world.
As part of this course, you’ll:
- Explore key sociological themes including social theory, class, gender, culture, the media, globalisation, and urban life
- Investigate some of the most pressing social issues facing communities locally, nationally, and globally
- Conduct sociological research using a range of methods and digital tools
- Examine social divisions, diversity, and inequality from different perspectives
- Develop your understanding of social responsibility, active citizenship, and the role individuals and communities play in creating social change
Opening doors
A sociology degree can lead to a wide range of career opportunities. By developing a deeper understanding of people, communities, and social issues, you’ll graduate with the skills and confidence to succeed across a variety of professions.
Throughout the course, you’ll build highly transferable skills in research, critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, and evidence-based decision-making – qualities valued by employers across the public, private, and voluntary sectors.
Building your future potential
As a School of Humanities & Social Sciences student, you'll think about your future career from the start of your studies. Career development is embedded throughout your course, helping you recognise your strengths, explore career pathways, and build professional confidence. You’ll gain insight into graduate opportunities from your first year and develop the knowledge and experience to stand out in a competitive job market.
In your second and third years, you'll have opportunities to take part in live briefs and work-based learning projects, applying your sociological knowledge to real-world situations. You’ll also build industry connections, explore professional sectors, and create a portfolio that showcases your skills and achievements.
Boost your CV
Alongside your studies, you'll have access to opportunities that can enhance your experience and employability, including digital micro-internships, workplace research projects, mock interviews, volunteering, training, and careers events.
Alongside your studies, you'll have access to opportunities that can enhance your experience and employability, including digital micro-internships, workplace research projects, mock interviews, volunteering, training, and careers events.
Our graduates have progressed into careers in:
- Marketing and communications
- Advertising and media
- Social work
- Teaching and education
- Charity, voluntary, and community groups
Why study the BA Sociology course at Leeds Beckett University?
- Supportive and engaging teaching - 100% of students on BA (Hons) Sociology were positive about the way teaching staff explain things*
- Learn from research-active sociologists whose expertise informs your teaching, helping you engage with contemporary debates and real-world social issues
- Broaden your horizons through study abroad - choose to spend a year living and studying overseas, gaining new perspectives and enhancing your global outlook
- Embedded career development from day one - build the skills and awareness needed to stand out in a competitive job market
*National Student Survey 2026
Explore videos and blogs
Sociology at Leeds Beckett | Course Overview Thinking about studying sociology? Staff and students share insights into what you’ll learn, the key topics covered, and how this course prepares you for a range of exciting careers. Discover how sociology helps you understand and shape the world around you.
100%
of students on BA (Hons) Sociology were positive about the way teaching staff explain things
Everything you need to know
Discover all there is to know about the course, from entry requirements and fees to exploring the school you’ll be joining - we’ve got it covered.
Entry requirements
72
points required
If you’re unsure how to work out your UCAS points we have a UCAS Tariff Calculator which will do it for you. All you need to do is enter your qualifications and let the UCAS Tariff Calculator do the maths.
We have welcomed students from over 140 countries to study at Leeds Beckett University. If you are interested in studying with us you can find all the information you need about entry requirements and how to apply on our country specific pages.
Entry requirements
72
points required
48 from two A Levels or equivalent, excluding General Studies.
If you're applying via UCAS, find out more about how your qualifications fit into the UCAS tariff.
IELTS
IELTS 6.0 with no skills below 5.5, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.
Selection Criteria
We may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.
Mature Applicants
Our university welcomes applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential. All students will be considered through the contextual admissions policy described above. If you do not meet the requirements through the contextual admissions policy, we may still be able to make you an offer if you have recent relevant work experience through our 'Recognition of Prior Learning' policy. Please ensure that you list both your qualifications and any relevant work experience in your application so that we can consider you under both schemes where applicable. All applicants should meet our standard entry requirements of GCSE grade 4 in English language and, where specified, Maths. Alternative qualifications such as functional skills are accepted in lieu of GCSEs for most courses.We have welcomed students from over 140 countries to study at Leeds Beckett University. If you are interested in studying with us you can find all the information you need about entry requirements and how to apply on our country specific pages.
If you're applying via UCAS, find out more about how your qualifications fit into the UCAS tariff.
IELTS
IELTS 6.0 with no skills below 5.5, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.
Selection Criteria
We may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.
Additional entry requirements:
Verify your qualifications
If you are an international student, we can help you to compare and verify your qualifications. Please contact our International Office on +44 (0)113 812 1111 09.00 to 17.00 Mon-Thurs / 09.00 to 16.30 Fri GMT or email internationaloffice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk.Need to improve your English Language skills?
Don't worry if you don't have the level of English required for your chosen course. We offer a wide range of courses which have been designed to help you to improve your qualifications and English language ability, most of which are accredited by the British Council. Check your English and find out more about our English courses.More questions?
No matter what your questions, we are here to answer them, visit our International website to get more information and find out about our online open days.Independent study is a crucial part of learning at university and you will be required to undertake many hours of self-directed research and reading, and preparation and writing of assessments. Your course is delivered through a number of modules, which will help you to plan your time and establish a study routine. Outside of your lectures, workshops and tutorials, a range of support is available to assist with your independent study. Our subject-specific librarians will be on hand to direct you to the specialist learning and study-skill resources. You’ll also be assigned an academic advisor to give you tailored feedback and support.
Modules, teaching and learning
There are no traditional exams on this course.
What you'll learn
Using an applied approach to sociological inquiries of and towards the city and urban contexts, you will develop your study skills, and focus in particular critical reading and thinking skills and both written and spoken communication skills.
Focus on sociological theories engaged with the emergence and development of capitalism and modernity.
Gain an introduction to sociological perspectives on media and culture and their relationship to social, political and economic life. You will look at the importance of understanding media and culture and think critically about the relationship between media, culture and identities in contemporary society.
Gain an understanding of both epistemological (the study of knowledge acquisition) and methodological aspects of the research process. This module will introduce you to the fundamental epistemological questions for the social and socio-psychological sciences. Specifically, you’ll look at problematic distinctions within the research process, including scientific versus ordinary knowledge and theory versus empirical data. You’ll investigate the precise relationship between quantitative measurement and the scientific method. In addition to this, you’ll address practical issues related to the different stages of research project design. By the end of the module, you’ll be able to discuss key methods and techniques used in social scientific research, such as ethnographic method, semiotic and discourse analyses, and causal analysis.
Explore contemporary sociological theory and debates around the contested concept of globalisation. You will explore the characteristics of contemporary globalisation, consider the implications and consequences for different groups, and reflect on the tension between the global and the local (or the relationship between global social systems and localised everyday life).
Discover the study of social policy through an examination of its key influences, events, debates and developments. You'll focus on the development of the UK welfare state over time, exploring how this has been shaped by a range of social, political, economic and cultural influences.
What you'll learn
Study classical and contemporary social theory. You will focus on some important classical modern theorists such as Marx and Weber and then show how these theories have been developed by social theorists in the 20th and 21st century.
Explore sociological perspectives on the role of political and economic power in the creation of social class divisions. You will examine the role of culture, education and the state in maintaining and entrenching class divisions.
Investigate major topics and areas of debate in the sociology of gender. This will be achieved by considering feminist theories and theories of gender as well as by looking at key issues and debates around gender and work such as gender at work and family and work.
Gain a deeper insight into and training in a variety of social research methods. You will first consider the impact of values, politics and ethics on sociological research before moving on to examine a range of qualitative and quantitative research methods through in-depth examinations of specific pieces of sociological research.
Option modules may include
Conceptually or literally, you will take sociology out of the university and into the public sphere, encouraging you to engage in dialogue and collaboration with various publics so as to influence decision-making, social change and social justice.
Study both classical and contemporary theories of social movements, political protests, and episodes of collective action. You will explore and analyse empirical events using a range of theories, including but not limited to collective behaviour, resource mobilisation, political process and new social movement theories.
Explore and critically engage with the impact of digital technologies on social life, identity, politics and other areas of contemporary life. You will develop an understanding of, and assess, contemporary theories and studies which have sought to explain changes brought about by the increasing integration of the digital with everyday life.
Gain knowledge and an understanding of contemporary approaches to family, intimacies and domestic practices. You will learn to analyse the significance of sexuality to modern society through an exploration of various sites of struggle over sexual behaviour. You will also be able to understand family and sexuality as a social construct, to understand feminist theories and perspectives on family and sexuality, and to analyse it using sociological perspectives.
What you'll learn
Conduct an independent piece of research, 10,000 words in length, in which you demonstrate the ability to search and evaluate relevant academic literature and data, to apply the necessary and appropriate research skills for the production of a scholarly empirical or conceptual piece of work.
You will be encouraged to critically interrogate current social theory regarding the key features and characteristics of contemporary societies and their meaning and consequences. You will examine whether key social theories and models adequately describe contemporary societies or enhance our understanding of ongoing processes of social change.
Explore the development of the British welfare state and examine it in terms of the divisions between public and private provision and the conflicting moral judgements that are applied. The ways in which these State interventions build upon and entrench class divisions are studied.
Option modules may include
You will integrate and deepen your sociological knowledge at a conceptual level by exploring key philosophical, theoretical and ethical issues at stake in the field to enable critical thinking.
Critically explore the intersection between science, technology, human bodies and health in contemporary societies. You will assess the ways in which methods of technical assessment have shaped how bodies and health are understood.
By encouraging you to reflect on learning acquired through work placements, this module aims to promote self-awareness of your 'career story'. You'll look at how you evaluate your current skills, explore future possibilities in your career development and navigate pathways through those chosen possibilities. In short, this module enables you to become a 'cartographer' of your own future. You'll embark on at least 80 hours of work placements, supported by reflective exercises. Build expertise and confidence through a range of assessments designed by your course team and our employer partners.
Explore how our identities, so often presented as a natural and eternal condition, are constructed for us by powerful forces of reproduction and representation, ones that blur the lines between fabricated and real, object and subject, outside and inside, in a process which at once helps to maintain social hierarchy and is largely beyond individual control.
Develop your knowledge of a range of different theoretical approaches to understanding masculinities. You will be introduced to a range of different ways of understanding masculinities and will develop your abilities in relating these theoretical approaches to a range of empirical topics.
Develop your understanding of the nature of work and organisations in the contemporary global economy. You will build the critical skills needed to understand key theoretical debates regarding new organisational and work-management techniques, new and emerging forms of labour and employment, and the complex and changing relationship between production, consumption and identity in an increasingly globalised economy.
Engage with the practice of either sociology or social psychology in a real world setting through a period of work-based learning. You’ll gain practical experience of a professional work area related to your study. As well as this, you’ll gain an understanding of the workplace and how to bridge the gap between your academic studies and future employment. Throughout your work-based learning, you’ll apply the theory and transferrable skills you’ve learnt on the course. Upon completion, you’ll analyse the activities you’ve participated in and any challenges you’ve faced during your experience and how you dealt with these. You’ll critically reflect on the skills and knowledge you’ve developed and how these relate to your future personal, career and academic aspirations.
Fees and funding
£9,790
UK
The annual tuition fee for students entering in the 2026/27 academic year is anticipated to be £9790 (the maximum annual tuition fee cap announced by the UK Government, which is subject to parliamentary approval).
For each subsequent year of study, the University may charge up to the maximum annual tuition fee cap set by the UK Government, which may increase in line with any uplift determined by the UK Government by law or government policy (such increases are expected to be linked to inflation).
£16,840
International 2026
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2026/27 is £16840.
Fees and funding
£9,790
For students entering in 2026
The annual tuition fee for students entering in the 2026/27 academic year is anticipated to be £9790 (the maximum annual tuition fee cap announced by the UK Government, which is subject to parliamentary approval).
For each subsequent year of study, the University may charge up to the maximum annual tuition fee cap set by the UK Government, which may increase in line with any uplift determined by the UK Government by law or government policy (such increases are expected to be linked to inflation).
Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Optional Costs
- Educational visit costs will vary and will be dependent on details and location. Costs you'll need to pay could include travel, accommodation and subsistence.
- Work experience, placements, study related to live brief projects and/or any additional course experiences may involve travel. You'll need to pay for any additional travel or dual accommodation costs. You'll also be encouraged to make use of contacts in Leeds or your hometown to minimise these costs.
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
£16,840
For students entering in 2026
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2026/27 is £16840.
Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Optional Costs
- Educational visit costs will vary and will be dependent on details and location. Costs you'll need to pay could include travel, accommodation and subsistence.
- Work experience, placements, study related to live brief projects and/or any additional course experiences may involve travel. You'll need to pay for any additional travel or dual accommodation costs. You'll also be encouraged to make use of contacts in Leeds or your hometown to minimise these costs.
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
Scholarships and bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that an education at Leeds Beckett University is open to all. If you're thinking of joining us for undergraduate study, you may be eligible for a non-repayable scholarship or bursary to help with the cost of university. To find out if you are be eligible visit our scholarships and bursaries page.
We also offer a range of non-repayable scholarships for international students. To find out if you may be eligible visit our scholarships for international students page and select your home country from the drop-down list.
This course will develop your critical analytical and interpretive skills and thereby provide you with a deeper understanding of the world around you. Students can expect high-quality teaching from a strongly-committed and enthusiastic teaching team. Through a wide range of innovative and creative assessments and research-based assignments spread across the course, we aim to unleash students’ ‘sociological imagination’ and encourage you to take on the role of active ‘producers ‘of valid knowledge of the contemporary social world.
Dr Darren Nixon
Senior Lecturer
Career prospects
There’s a lot to consider when choosing a course. Take a look at the team you’ll be working with, employability statistics and career prospects to help make up your mind.
Career Prospects
This course helps you develop the research, analytical, and communication skills needed to investigate complex social issues, understand diverse perspectives, and contribute to meaningful change. Whether you choose to work directly with individuals and communities or influence decision-making at organisational and policy levels, you’ll be equipped to make a positive impact.
Sociology graduates are valued across a range of sectors because they understand how social, cultural, and economic factors affect people’s lives. As a result, our graduates have gone on to careers in areas including social work, education, public services, marketing, research, and the voluntary sector. Potential career routes could include:
- Social researcher
- Social worker
- Community development worker
- Teacher / Lecturer
- Policy officer
- Public sector officer
- Charity and voluntary sector professional
Graduate employment destinations
At Leeds Beckett, equipping you with strong employability skills for your future is at the heart of what we do. Some examples of employers that our BA (Hons) Sociology graduates have found careers at include*:
- BNB London
- Boots UK
- Department for Work and Pensions
- Various secondary schools and academies around the country
*Based on data from the past three years (HESA Graduate Outcomes 21-24)
The course itself enables you to study things that you'd have never even thought possible, and it really prepares you for the future."
Amelia Gunn
Leeds City Council, BA (Hons) Sociology
Dr Joseph Ibrahim
Course Director / School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Joseph is a sociologist who has research interests in social theory, and the culture, values and practices of social movements. He has a particular interest in the work of Pierre Bourdieu and has published a monograph drawing on his ideas.
Our Graduate Promise
We have a dedicated team of people who will support you with all aspects of your career planning, from day one until 18 months after you graduate.
Getting you career ready is an integral part of your university life and this is embedded throughout your lectures and seminars. Outside of your course there is a wide range of support available to help you achieve your career goals, including:
- Getting ready to apply for jobs
- Working on your CV
- Interview skills and assessment centres
- Connecting with employers and organisations
We’re ranked in the Top 10 universities in the UK for job prospects
(Student Crowd, 2025 - the only awards based entirely on student reviews).
Find out why...
Student life
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