Questioning social division, justice and inequality
How do you relate to politicians, celebrities, your teachers or your friends? How do you define yourself, your family and others? We explore the way society works, what connects people and what divides them.
We're ranked 1st in the UK for research environment in sociology (Grade Point Average, REF 2021). We shape modern society today, advising the UN, government departments, think tanks and public bodies around the world on issues from the rights of indigenous peoples, to the regulation of the building industry, and organised crime and terrorism.
As one of Essex's founding departments, we've focused on how people think about major social issues such as poverty, inequality, class, welfare and vulnerability in societies around the world from the very start.
So, if you want to be stretched and challenged, and make a change in society, welcome home.