School of Social and Political Sciences

Our school is home to one of the most successful academic groups in the world for research and teaching in the social sciences.

As recognised by the prestigious 2018 QS World University Rankings, our expertise consistently places us in the top 30 in the world, including anthropology (No. 26), development studies (No. 18), politics and international studies (No. 22), sociology (No.21) and social policy (No. 28).

Through a rich variety of multidisciplinary networks and research centres, our academics maintain significant connections with the international community and are exceptionally well placed to explore the social, cultural and political foundations of the contemporary world.

We also take great pride in contributing to public debate and sharing our work with the wider community. Successful engagement initiatives include the Ted Wheelwright Lecture, which routinely attracts more than 600 attendees, and the Festival of Democracy, which brings together researchers, activists and policymakers committed to greater equality and the accountability of power.

Our departments

• Department of Anthropology
• Department of Government and International Relations
• Department of Peace and Conflict Studies 
• Department of Political Economy
• Department of Sociology and Social Policy