Department of Social and Policy Sciences

The Department of Social & Policy Sciences is one of the UK’s leading centres for social sciences. It undertakes world-class disciplinary research in social policy, social work, sociology, international development and criminology; reflected in its top-ten standing in both REF2021 and REF2014. It offers a wide range of teaching programmes across social work, sociology, social policy, international development and criminology.

There is an extremely strong research culture across the Faculty, with disciplinary research excellence combined with interdisciplinary initiatives, responding effectively to global challenges. We have sustained success in recruiting students and provide high quality, research-informed teaching with an excellent student experience, enhanced by an exceptional placements programme, as demonstrated in our top ranking positions in all the major UK league tables.