Abstract copyright UK Data Service and data collection copyright owner.To explore the development and content of occupational orientation of sociology/social studies students from their entry into the course until their final year of study.

Main Topics:

Attitudinal/Behavioural Questions Considered/preferred alternatives to taking a degree; reasons most likely to be presented by fellow sociology students for entering higher education; respondent's own reasons; preferred degree body, reasons for applying for polytechnic place, reasons for not applying for university place; perceived differences between universities and polytechnics; reasons for choosing sociology; how respondent heard of course; whether course was first choice; other offers received; reasons for choosing present course; influences causing application; whether course provides specific training (e.g. for research, social work); specialisation within subject; factors of value in future career; expected salary; preferred career; most likely career; least likely career; intention to do postgraduate work; whether any career plans made or information sought; whether anticipates difficulty getting employment; perceptions of job prospects; influence of parents and others on career choice; most important source of satisfaction after college (e.g. career, family, politics). Background Variables Polytechnic area, length/type of course, sex, age, marital status, home residence, country of origin (respondent/father/mother), employment status, occupation and education history (mother/father), school leaving age, 'O' and 'A' level passes, grades, post-school activities, degree application date.

No sampling (total universe)

Postal survey