Faculty of Social Sciences

University of Southampton

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Immerse yourself in your specialty in a faculty that shares your passion for researching the social world. At the University of Southampton’s Faculty of Social Sciences, whether you’re driven by a desire to shape policy or advance theoretical understanding, we’ll empower you to become the expert in your field. An internationally recognised faculty, we bring together brilliant minds to address global social challenges through innovation and partnership across the social science disciplines and beyond. Join our exciting research community and you’ll benefit from our flexible programmes, inclusive, collaborative ethos and track record of influencing real-world change.

Why study at the Faculty of Social Sciences?

Gain your PhD at a top 100 university (QS World Rankings 2024) and Russell Group member, with access to world-class resources and global academic networks.

Make your research ambitions a reality through our range of studentships and scholarships for UK and overseas students.

Be part of a diverse academic network, committed to social impact, methodological excellence and real-world change.

Take advantage of our cutting-edge data labs, research centres, and strong links with NGOs, governments, global organisations and policymakers.

Break new ground in education, business, economics, politics and international relations, criminology, law, sociology and social policy, social statistics, demography, mathematical sciences, global health or gerontology.

230

postgraduate students

4

listings on FindAPhD

81st

in the QS World Rankings 2024

Southampton United Kingdom

main campus

About the Faculty of Social Sciences

A dynamic hub for world-class research and postgraduate training, our faculty is home to leading departments across a range of disciplines. Our research areas are diverse but share a common goal: to understand and address complex global challenges.

Whether you’re interested in quantitative methods, ethnographic research or policy evaluation, you’ll find a supportive environment that nurtures innovation and academic excellence. Strong links with governments, NGOs and international bodies ensure your research has real-world impact.

Depending on your research topic you could contribute to world-changing projects through our unique interdisciplinary centres and partnerships, such as the Centre for Population Change, the National Centre for Research Methods, and the ESRC South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership, which open up opportunities to work on ongoing collaborative projects with government, third sector and policy organisations.

We offer tailored support to ensure you excel, with dedicated postgraduate research coordinators, mentoring schemes, and a comprehensive professional development programme.

You’ll also benefit from access to the Hartley Library’s extensive social science collections and specialist data resources, including secure data labs for sensitive datasets.

Funded PhD opportunities

Student life at the Faculty of Social Sciences

At the Faculty of Social Sciences you’ll find a welcoming, intellectually stimulating environment where postgraduate researchers thrive.

You’ll soon feel you belong in our diverse, inclusive research community. On campus you can meet up with your peers in dedicated postgraduate work and social spaces, connect at interdisciplinary seminars and research groups, and enjoy social events organised by the faculty and our active postgraduate research community.

Across the wider University, the Doctoral College celebrates PhD researchers’ successes each year with events such as a poster exhibition and Three Minute Thesis competition – a great opportunity to showcase your achievements. Looking to the future, you can build a professional development programme tailored to your ambitions, with a choice of more than 400 training opportunities every year.

We are committed to nurturing research excellence regardless of background or circumstance, through award-winning initiatives like the Race Equality Charter, Athena Swan recognition and Black Futures Scholarships. Groups like the LGBTQ+ network and parents’ and carers’ network help to foster belonging across our postgraduate community. There are also comprehensive University wellbeing, disability and inclusion services for any additional support you might need.

When you’re not hard at work there’s plenty to enjoy in Southampton. It’s a safe, walkable city with a rich maritime history, green spaces, a lively cultural scene and a mild climate. There are national parks and beaches nearby, and easy transport links to London and beyond.

Subjects available at the Faculty of Social Sciences

Applied Statistics

Education Management

Sociology

Education

Computer Science

Mathematics

Politics

Public Policy

Socio Economics

Statistics

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Frequently asked questions

Where can I apply for funding for my studies?

There are a range of funding opportunities available, including the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership. The University of Southampton also offers a range of scholarships and bursaries, including the prestigious Presidential Scholarships, Black Futures Scholarships, and Innovation and Social Impact awards. You can find more details on the Doctoral College scholarships page.

What support will I receive during my PhD?

Our welcoming and friendly Doctoral College is at the heart of our postgraduate research community. Through the Doctoral College you’ll have access to training, career development, funding advice and wellbeing support. It also coordinates interdisciplinary events and provides access to dedicated study spaces.

Can I study part-time or remotely?

If you need to balance your PhD with other commitments, most programmes offer part-time options. Remote study may be possible through the University’s PhD by Distance Learning route, depending on your project and supervision needs. Learn more in our distance learning policy.

Can I propose my own research topic?

Yes, we welcome original proposals. You’re encouraged to contact potential supervisors to discuss your ideas and ensure they align with expertise within the faculty. You’ll find more detail about what to include in your proposal in our research proposal guidelines.

How do I apply for a PhD?

Applications are made through our online portal. Before you apply, we recommend you check the eligibility criteria and prepare your documents, such as your CV, personal statement, references, and a research proposal if required. You’ll receive a confirmation email after you’ve submitted your application, and if you’re shortlisted, we’ll be in touch to arrange an interview. Visit our website for more guidance on applying for a research degree and writing your research proposal.

Main campus

University of Southampton

Southampton

South East

United Kingdom

Supervisors at Faculty of Social Sciences

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Faculty of Social Sciences