Faculty of Social Sciences

We are a leading Faculty of Social Sciences and our rankings reflect this across our subject areas. We're ranked 1st in Scotland and top 15 in the UK for Criminology, top 5 in Scotland and top 20 in the UK for Social Policy, and top 15 in the UK for Education (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025).

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Study with us

With a diverse range of globally recognised courses, we’ll help you to be the difference in your chosen career. From sociology to education, all of our social science courses are taught by lecturers who are experts in their fields.

We deliver many courses that facilitate opportunities for you to gain widespread practical experience, promote postgraduate research, and allow you to achieve your ambitions.

Study in the Faculty of Social Sciences
Undergraduate study
CPD and short courses
Postgraduate taught
Postgraduate research
View Social Sciences staff directory

World-leading research

Our research and teaching covers Dementia, Education, Housing, Sociology, Social Policy and Criminology, and Social Work. Our 70 academic staff and researchers produce research that makes a positive social impact around the world.

Research in social sciences

Careers in social sciences

Studying with us will give you opportunities to connect with organisations, go on placement, study abroad and guide your personal and professional development. We'll prepare you for your career in social sciences.

Careers in social sciences

Social Sciences divisions

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Dementia and Ageing

Explore how we're enhancing the lives of older people and people with dementia around the world.

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Sociology, Social Policy and Criminology

We use our expertise in Sociology, Social Policy and Criminology to understand and improve society.

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Education

Education has a thriving community of staff, undergraduate and postgraduate students.

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Social Work

We will prepare you for a rewarding career in this important field. 

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The Faculty's Equality Diversity and Inclusion Committee works in a number of areas including protected characteristics (under the Equality Act), social class and gender. The committee is comprised of academics, professional service staff and post-graduate researchers.

We proudly hold a bronze Athena Swan award for our commitment to gender equality, which involves delivering a five-year action plan on intersectional inequalities.