Sociology at undergraduate level involves the scientific study of all facets of social life, from face-to-face interactions to the study of the world system, is concerned with understanding and interpreting society and the people within it, and can be applied to a range of social issues to understand why patterns exist, why problems have occurred (e.g. crime, disease), and how they might be addressed. Central to the work of sociology are themes related to culture, identity, power and inequality, and an investigation of how these are changing in contemporary life. Sociologists focus on recurrent social patterns in contemporary societies, but also address historical events and processes. The main aims of the Honours year are: To enable students with an adequate background in Sociology to pursue further study in one specialist area in more depth than is possible with a pass degree To enhance students' capacity for independent research and to acquire research skills appropriate to their area of specialisation. To train to a standard sufficient for enrolment in postgraduate research degrees, and for a specialist career. Achievement of first class or IIA honours allows direct entry to a PhD program. Please note that this field has a Semester 1 commencement only.

An Honours year in Sociology focuses on developing and consolidating the knowledge and skills acquired during undergraduate study, with particular emphasis on utilising those skills in a sustained and purposeful way by conducting independent research. Apart from content knowledge, employers and professionals value both the reliability and capacity for independent work, and the skill at writing substantial reports which are demonstrated by successful completion of Honours.