SO100 One Unit
Key Concepts: Introduction to Social Theory
This information is for the 2025/26 session.
Course Convenor
Prof Chetan Bhatt
Availability
This course is compulsory on the BSc in Language, Culture and Society and BSc in Sociology. This course is available on the BSc in International Relations, BSc in International Social and Public Policy, BSc in Politics, BSc in Politics and International Relations, BSc in Psychological and Behavioural Science, Erasmus Reciprocal Programme of Study and Exchange Programme for Students from University of California, Berkeley. This course is freely available as an outside option to students on other programmes where regulations permit. It does not require permission. This course is freely available to General Course students. It does not require permission.
This course has a limited number of places (it is capped). Students who have this course as a compulsory course are guaranteed a place. Places for all other students are allocated on a first come first served basis.
Course content
The course aims to introduce students to sociological theory by examining the work and ideas of normally eight key thinkers in social thought. For each thinker, the course will provide an overview of their contribution to the discipline of sociology, examine in detail one or more of their important texts, and also consider how their analysis could be applied to contemporary social issues.
Teaching
This course has a reading week in Week 6 of Autumn and Winter Term.
This course is usually delivered through a combination of lectures and classes. There will be two hours or more of teaching each week across AT and WT. There will also be revision sessions in early ST.
Formative assessment
Essay plan
Essay
Essay
Essay
One essay plan and three essays (two assessments in AT; two in WT), for feedback from class teachers.
Indicative reading
A detailed reading list will be available at the first lecture, but for general preparatory reading, students might wish to consult the following: D Lee & H Newby, The Problem of Sociology; Z Bauman, Thinking Sociologically; S Bruce, Sociology: A Very Short Introduction.
Assessment
Exam (100%), duration: 180 Minutes in the Spring exam period
Attendance at all classes and submission of all set coursework is required.
Key facts
Department: Sociology
Course Study Period: Autumn, Winter and Spring Term
Unit value: One unit
FHEQ Level: Level 4
CEFR Level: Null
Total students 2024/25: 61
Average class size 2024/25: 12
Capped 2024/25: Yes(75)Course selection videos
Some departments have produced short videos to introduce their courses. Please refer to the course selection videos index page for further information.
Personal development skills
- Self-management
- Problem solving
- Communication