School of Social Sciences

Diverse. Creative. Changing the world.

Welcome

The School of Social Sciences at Lancaster is a vibrant and inclusive community, driven by research and innovation that makes a real-world impact. Through an interdisciplinary lens, we explore the complexities of our society and empower students to think critically, challenge assumptions, and engage with the world around them in meaningful ways.

About Us
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4th

in the UK for Social Work

The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide (2026)

3rd

in the world for Linguistics

QS World Subject Rankings 2025

5th

in the UK for Sociology

The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide (2026)

Top 50

in the world for Education

Times Higher Education (THE) world subject rankings table for education 2025

10th

in the UK for Criminology

Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026

Disciplines

Social Work Teaching Partnerships

Our social work teaching partnerships demonstrate our commitment to working with employers in order to improve student placements and better prepare students for employment after graduation. The value of this work is reflected in the high regard employers have for our graduates.

Teaching partnerships and resources
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Latest News

Image shows iinformal group of children working on crafts at a table with teacher in the background

SEND support system crisis worsens – latest analysis shows

The special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system, already known to be in deep trouble, now faces ‘a worsening crisis’ which, say experts, puts the UK on the brink of a national emergency.
Military aircraft at Kabul airport, Afghanistan

Ministry of Defence Afghan data leak: New findings reveal extent of harm caused

Afghans affected by the MoD data leak are placed at direct risk of harm, according to new research. New survey data reveals that of 350 Afghans, 89% of 231 affected by the leak reported impacts on their own physical and/or mental health. The research, involving Victoria Canning, Professor of Criminology at Lancaster University, along with Refugee Legal Support and Professor Sara de Jong from the University of York, has been published by the House of Commons Defence Select Committee.
A landscape-oriented promotional poster for a podcast episode, set against a solid dark teal/green background.

Dr Winter on the Sociological Review podcast speaking about free speech, reactionary politics, and the far right.

Lancaster academic explores the politics of free speech in new Sociological Review podcast.
Image shows Professor Paul Ashwin on the right and green leaves on a tree on the left

Prestigious appointment for Lancaster Professor of Higher Education

A Lancaster University professor has been rewarded for his significant contribution to Higher Education.
Image shows head and shoulder pictures of the three recipients as per caption below

Lancaster’s world-class researchers will turn bold ideas into innovations to improve lives

Three Lancaster University researchers have been awarded Future Leaders Fellowships, through a flagship scheme by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).

Professor Edward Simpson

Academy honours Lancaster Dean’s work in field of social sciences

A Lancaster University professor and Faculty Dean has been honoured for his contribution to the world of social sciences.

More News

Upcoming Events

4th Nov

Imagining the Hospital in 2125: Inclusive Healthcare Futures

Tuesday 4 November 2025, 9:00am to 11:30am
4th Nov

AI and Our Working Lives – A Social Sciences Panel Discussion

Tuesday 4 November 2025, 6:00pm to 8:00pm
6th Nov

Bright Club

Thursday 6 November 2025, 7:00pm to 10:00pm
11th Nov

Study for a Doctorate (PhD) Degree in Social Work

Tuesday 11 November 2025, 6:00pm to 7:00pm
12th Nov

Digital Humanities Early Career Research Seminar

Wednesday 12 November 2025, 3:00pm to 4:30pm

More Events