Social Sciences

The Social Sciences Division includes the largest grouping of social sciences in the UK, together with Archaeological Science, and the School of Geography and the Environment, which combines work in Human Geography, Physical Geography, and Environmental Science. It is home to a number of outstanding departments and to the internationally ranked Law Faculty; all are committed to research to develop a greater understanding of all aspects of our complex society, from the impact of political, legal and economic systems on social and economic welfare to human rights and security. They seek to disseminate that research through innovative graduate courses.

A wide range of courses is offered, many of which have research council recognition. Many are a preparation for doctoral work, as well as discrete programmes of advanced study in their own right; others provide a professional qualification. All are rooted in research of international standing and students have access to a well-resourced, active research environment.

Graduate programmes are offered in Anthropology, Archaeology and Archaeological Science, Area Studies, Geography and Environmental Science, Development Studies, Economics, Educational Studies, Internet Studies, Law, Management Studies, Politics and International Relations, Social Policy and Social Work, and Sociology.

The purpose-built Centre for Advanced Studies in the Social Sciences, adjacent to the Law Faculty houses the Departments of Economics, Politics and International Relations, and Sociology and the Centre for Socio-Legal Studies. This new building also houses the Bodleian Social Science Library and provides exceptional facilities for Master’s courses and research students.