What Is Sociology? An Introduction
Examine perspectives on society, and the cultural issues facing society. Apply sociological theory to researching social groups.
4,123 enrolled on this course
Duration
3 weeksWeekly study
3 hours100% online
How it works
What Is Sociology? An Introduction
Discover the fascinating field of sociology
How can society be analysed? And what are some of the contemporary cultural issues in society? Get answers to these questions and more with this introduction to sociology course.
On the course, you’ll learn about the basics of sociology and discover sociological theories. You’ll explore topics including class, social inequality, globalisation and the media. You will also learn how to do your own sociological research, and present your findings.
What topics will you cover?
- What is sociology?
- What is sociological theory and why is it important?
- Sex and gender
When would you like to start?
Start straight away and join a global classroom of learners. If the course hasn’t started yet you’ll see the future date listed below.
Available now
Learning on this course
On every step of the course you can meet other learners, share your ideas and join in with active discussions in the comments.
What will you achieve?
By the end of the course, you‘ll be able to...
- Identify the difference between sex and gender and the terms binary and spectrum.
- Explore the dominant narratives of femininity and masculinity.
- Produce a glossary of sociological terms.
- Investigate your own assumptions about popular culture.
Who is the course for?
This course is for anyone interested in sociology, cultural issues in society, or the workings of society more broadly. It would also suit those looking to develop their critical thinking or research skills.
Who will you learn with?
Steven Threadgold's research focuses on youth and class.
I am a lecturer in Sociology at the University of Newcastle. My research focuses on youth and young adults, pathways into home ownership, and the sociology of time.
Who developed the course?
The University of Newcastle Australia
The University of Newcastle is a world-class university distinguished by a commitment to equity and excellence. Ranked in Australia’s Top 10 universities, and 173rd in the world (QS rankings, 2024).
Established
1965Location
Newcastle, AustraliaWorld ranking
Top 180Source: QS World University Rankings 2024
Ways to learn | Buy this course | Subscribe & save | Limited access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Choose the best way to learn for you! | $54/one-off payment | $39.99 For your first month. Automatically renews | Free |
| Fulfill your current learning need | Develop skills to further your career | Sample the course materials | |
| Access to this course | tick | tick | Access expires 30 Dec 2024 |
| Access to 1,000+ courses | cross | tick | cross |
| Learn at your own pace | tick | tick | cross |
| Discuss your learning in comments | tick | tick | tick |
| Certificate when you're eligible | Printed and digital | Digital only | cross |
Cancel for free anytime |
Ways to learn
Choose the best way to learn for you!
Subscribe & save
$39.99
For your first month. Automatically renews
Develop skills to further your career
- Access to this course
- Access to 1,000+ courses
- Learn at your own pace
- Discuss your learning in comments
- Digital certificate when you're eligible
Cancel for free anytime
Buy this course
$54/one-off payment
Fulfill your current learning need
- Access to this course
- Learn at your own pace
- Discuss your learning in comments
- Printed and digital certificate when you’re eligible
Limited access
Free
Sample the course materials
- Access expires 30 Dec 2024
Find out more about certificates, Unlimited or buying a course (Upgrades) Sale price available until 29 December 2024 at 23:59 (UTC). T&Cs apply. | |||
Find out more about certificates, Unlimited or buying a course (Upgrades)
Sale price available until 29 December 2024 at 23:59 (UTC). T&Cs apply.
Learning on FutureLearn
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- Learn through a mix of bite-sized videos, long- and short-form articles, audio, and practical activities
- Stay motivated by using the Progress page to keep track of your step completion and assessment scores
Join a global classroom
- Experience the power of social learning, and get inspired by an international network of learners
- Share ideas with your peers and course educators on every step of the course
- Join the conversation by reading, @ing, liking, bookmarking, and replying to comments from others
Map your progress
- As you work through the course, use notifications and the Progress page to guide your learning
- Whenever you’re ready, mark each step as complete, you’re in control
- Complete 90% of course steps and all of the assessments to earn your certificate
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