The Postgraduate Diploma in Arts (PGDipArts) requires two semesters of full-time, or its equivalent in part-time, study. It entails a structured programme of postgraduate coursework and, in some instances, a piece of supervised research that counts for one or two of the required papers. The normal admission requirement is a completed Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in the major of the proposed programme. Graduates are employed in administration, business, education, government, industry and journalism where their advanced knowledge of an academic area, ability to solve problems, research and writing skills are valued. It is also a recognised qualification for admission as a candidate for the Master of Arts (MA) and, if a dissertation is included, the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). The programme may be taken by full-time candidates in one year, or by part-time candidates over more than one year. Any paper in which a candidate is enrolled in any year shall be examined in that year. Sociology is the study of people, societies and social groups. The aim of sociology is to understand and explain aspects of social behaviour and relationships. Sociology encourages the critical analysis of people's participation in social processes and focuses attention on the dynamics of power, inequality, social divisions, and personal and cultural identity. There is an emphasis on the way in which these dynamics and social structures change over time. The subject matter of sociology traverses a broad range of topics including class, gender, and ethnicity; health, education and welfare; the media; politics; environmental issues; religion; social movements work; sport and leisure; and social policy. Level of Award of the Diploma The diploma may be awarded with distinction or with credit. Diploma in a Second Subject A student who has obtained the diploma in one subject may become a candidate for the diploma in any other subject.