Sociology

The School of Social Science, History and Philosophy supports research projects in sociology. Sociologically oriented research takes place within and across a number of the School’s 6 departments, particularly, but not exclusively, Psychosocial Studies and Geography, Environment and Development Studies (GEDS). Sociological research takes a wide variety of forms depending on topic, and is frequently interdisciplinary in focus, but the common thread is a distinctively sociological perspective. Research students benefit not only from the advisory insight of leading academics, but also from a wider culture of support and advice from staff and other students undertaking social research.

The Birkbeck Institute for Social Research is a considerable resource, and provides a focus for social research not only within the School, but across Birkbeck as a whole. It is a hub for the dissemination and discussion of critical and socially engaged social science in London and beyond. The Birkbeck Graduate Seminar, run by BISR, brings together PhD students working on empirical social research theses and aims to support and enhance the supervision students receive.

We seek to teach and research issues of fundamental importance to humanity. The School offers an invigorating educational experience, built upon our international reputation for research excellence. Our research spans a number of fields, spanning arts and humanities, social sciences and sciences, and is notable for its collaborative, interdisciplinary and innovative nature. In all our departments there is a particular focus on issues of social justice, on pressing questions of ethics and politics, and on making academic research important to the wider community.

Our School attracts funding for studentships that ensure researchers of the highest standard can pursue their research with us. We offer up to 15 fully funded postgraduate research opportunities for 2015-2016 entry.

Find out more about other research funding opportunities at Birkbeck.