Questions about how we understand, organise and change society have never been more urgent. These questions surface in a range of contemporary phenomena. The many faces of inequality, fake news and the climate crisis. War, displacement and shifting relationships between the Global North and South. Child exploitation and care scandals. Black Lives Matter, trans activism, and the #MeToo campaign against sexual harassment. Rising Islamophobia, anti-Semitism and resurgent nationalism and settler-colonialism. This course welcomes students from across the world to the heart of London to provide them with an internationally and practically oriented understanding of the ways in which core debates within the social sciences can shape our responses to pressing social and policy questions. The course has a particular focus on issues of inequality and social justice, informed by the close reading of social theory and policy literatures.

Key benefits

• 1st in the UK for Sociology and Social Policy (The Guardian University Guide 2025).
• Learn how to make a difference in the world. Our innovative curriculum, which enables students to focus on issues that matter to them, encourages and supports creativity, risk-taking and social action, teaching you the knowledge, skills and confidence to communicate, collaborate, organise and persuade.
• Work with academics who are active contributors to world leading in their fields and committed to high quality research-led education. As well as having a proven track record of research and teaching excellence, the experience of the course team extends beyond academia to include work with a range of policy, and cultural and activist organisations institutions.
• Develop inter-disciplinary literacy. Real-world social, political, and ethical questions do not fall into neat disciplinary boxes. You will learn to apply and combine perspectives from a range of social science disciplines including sociology, anthropology, social policy and politics.
• Access a range of opportunities for learning and forging new relationships outside the university thanks to our links with activist communities and key civil society organisations in London. Practitioners from a range of external social and policy relevant organisations contribute to the teaching and host reciprocal visits and work placements.
• Enhance your studies by learning a language, studying abroad and/or taking advantage of the many other optional learning opportunities at King’s.
• Study in a friendly and supportive School, located by the Thames in the heart of central London.

“The programme structure is extremely flexible, and I get to choose electives based on my personal interests. I’ve also joined societies and made new friends from all corners of the world. Whether you’re interested in academic discussions, culture (or even sports!), there’s something for everyone. Overall, I’d recommend King’s to anyone who would love to study in the heart of London. ”

Stephanie, Social Sciences BAShow more