The University of Sheffield
Department of Sociological Studies
Department of Sociological StudiesDepartment of Sociological Studies

Sociology, Social Policy and Social Work

The Department of Sociological Studies delivers outstanding teaching informed by the very best research. We offer undergraduate and postgraduate students a solid grounding in the fundamentals of social analysis before they embark on real world research or practice. In the most recent National Student Surveys we achieved 90 per cent overall student satisfaction in Sociology and Social Policy, while our Social Work teaching has been rated by the Times and the Guardian as among the very best in the country. Click here to read more

ESRC Impact Champion of the Year: Professor Alan Walker

Alan WalkerProfessor Alan Walker, Professor of Social Policy and Social Gerontology has become the first holder of the Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC) Impact Champion of the Year in recognition of his career-long record in championing impact. Professor Walker's dedication to impact has proved inspirational across a wide range of disciplines as well as among non-researchers.

Professor Walker is currently Director of the £22 million ESRC, EPSRC, BBSRC, MRC and AHRC New Dynamics of Ageing Programme and is also Director of the European Research Area in Ageing and the FUTURAGE Project.

Professor Cathy Nutbrown from the Department of Education and Professor Matthew Flinders from the Department of Politics here at the University of Sheffield were also honoured at the Awards Ceremony held in London on 14 May 2013.

You can find further information about other winners here: http://www.esrc.ac.uk/news-and-events/events/celebrating-impact-prize/prize-winners-2013.aspx


Lorna WarrenDr Lorna Warren receives Senate Award for Sustained Excellence in Learning and Teaching.

We are delighted to announce that Dr Lorna Warren has received a prestigious Senate Award for Sustained Excellence in Learning & Teaching.

Dr Warren receives the award in recognition of her tireless work as a champion for students, ensuring that they get a high quality student experience as members of the Sociological Studies community.

The University of Sheffield Senate Awards aim to encourage and promote good practice, and raise the status of teaching and learning as a scholarly and inspirational activity. The Scheme rewards those who are inspirational or who demonstrate an exceptional contribution in the area of learning and teaching and/or supporting and enhancing the student learning experience.

Study with us


Students love our world-class teaching and research and broadly based, practical approach. Then there's the beautiful environment and strong pastoral support.

Undergraduate studies
Masters degrees

Research

Research student in a University libraryOur research is some of the most meaningful and widely respected in the field. Discover how you could join the team and play a part.

About our research
MPhil and PhD opportunities

PhD studentship available.

Your career

The University's Careers ServiceOur students develop transferable skills which open up a whole range of futures – both in social policy and beyond. Find out more about job options here.

What our graduates do
Career opportunities

More information about us

Member of staffLearn more about our awards, activities, facilities and the way the department is run. Or get in touch to ask us a question.

News and events

Our programme - your degree
About the department
Contact us