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Sociology

Subject Benchmark Statement

Subject Benchmark Statements describe the nature of study and the academic standards expected of graduates in specific subject areas. They show what graduates might reasonably be expected to know, do and understand at the end of their studies.


Below you will find the full Subject Benchmark Statement for SociologyAlongside it, we have also published a summary designed to provide a short and accessible overview of the main Statement for students, employers and academics.


Subject Benchmark Statement: Sociology

Publication date: 09 Apr 2026

Subject Benchmark Statement for Sociology - the basics

Publication date: 08 Apr 2026

About this subject

Illustration of different coloured heads looking in the same direction

Sociology is the study of how people shape and are shaped by the world they live in and their relations with others. As an established discipline, Sociology draws on evidence to promote a critical understanding and active engagement in society, informing interventions that address social issues locally, nationally and globally. As a result, Sociology graduates are well-prepared for, and make a significant contribution to, a wide and diverse range of roles across the private, public and voluntary sectors. As a core social science discipline, Sociology is concerned with the social world, and the social dimensions of human and non-human interactions. It combines theoretical and evidence-based approaches, with students learning to apply and assess theories and methods in the discipline. Through forming and articulating evidence-based arguments, students can develop the critical skills necessary for analysing complex social issues.   

Liz Cain - Chair of the Advisory Group
Head of School of Sociology and Criminology, Manchester Metropolitan University

 

Our new Statement is designed to reflect the contemporary landscape of sociology today. The themes of employability,  enterprise and entrepreneurship, generative AI, internationalisation, sustainability, and accessibility will help shape sociology programmes that are both academically rigorous and socially relevant. The Statement sets out a clear framework for high quality degree courses that equip students with the skills, knowledge and confidence to thrive post graduation. We hope this will serve as a valuable resource for colleagues in developing innovative, future focused sociology courses.

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