Course Resources Archive

The module aims to provide students with a sociological appreciation of the dynamic and fluid world of work and employment. Many sociology students embark on their course with little or no insight into how their sociology degree can be utilized after graduation: this module aims to explicitly help sociology students appreciate the career paths to which their degree is most suited, and bridge the gap between sociological theory, empirical evidence and the real world. The module will draw upon theoretical approaches, empirical case studies and evidence, and introduce students to the sociology of work first-hand by a number of field trips and guest-speakers.

A historical overview of working patterns

The position of gender, race and class within the workplace

An application of classical and contemporary theories to the labour process Trends in paid employment and voluntary work, trade unions, the public sector and privatisation

Transformations in power, policy, technology, practice and the role of welfare

The stages of the pre-industrial society, the industrial revolution, Fordism and globalisation

A student passing this module should be able to:

1.  Demonstrate awareness of the historical and social shifts in society that have influenced and dominated patterns of work and employment
2. Explain the ways in which class, race and gender influence employment and work patterns
3. Recognise the structures of power, patriarchy, hierarchy and inequality within the workplace
4. Effectively communicate the application of theory to their own experiences of work
5. Reflect on a career plan and the skills they need to develop

The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide.