Key facts
UNE unit code: SOCY360
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information

As a participant in and a student of society, it is important that you understand the power structures that privilege certain cohorts and limit others, and how they do so.
In this unit you will explore sociological approaches to social inequality and difference in terms of key social variables including class and status, race and ethnicity, gender and sexuality, and age.
Drawing on a range of debates, theories and empirical research around prejudice and discrimination, social justice and citizenship, globalisation and development, health and illness, social movements and social policy, you will consider ways in which inequalities are produced, reproduced and experienced.
In this unit, the focus is on both Australian and global inequalities.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 2 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)

Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate coherent theoretical knowledge of social inequality in relation to class, race/ethnicity, gender, sexuality and age;
- critically evaluate and apply theoretical and conceptual knowledge to areas of social inequality under study and effectively communicate this analysis and understanding to others; and
- use autonomy and judgement to apply appropriate skills and techniques in research and written analysis.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Critical Reflection Task | Yes | 30% | All offerings | No. Words: 1500 |
| Learning Journal | Yes | 20% | All offerings | No. Words: 1500 |
| Portfolio assessment: Essay with live verification interview - Assurance Task | Yes | 50% | All offerings | A scholarly research essay and interview verification Students must pass the Assurance Task in order to pass the unit. No. Words: 3000 (equivalent) |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Social Inequality
ISBN: 9781529768510
Louise Warwick-Booth , Sage 3rd edn. 2022
Text refers to: All offerings
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At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
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