School of Social Sciences

Making a difference to society

The School of Social Sciences bring together expertise in economics, law, sociology, politics and international relations. Our community of staff and students contribute knowledge that reaches out to local, national and international policy-makers, financial institutions, the media, government, think-tanks, community groups, charities, commerce, judges and legislators. With degrees that make a difference, students take their sought-after skills in research, analysis, and critical thinking to the fields of policy, finance, law, business, media, government, and beyond.  

Teaching excellence

National Student Survey 2024 results:

  • 5th for Politics
  • 7th for Sociology
  • 12th for Economics
  • 13th for Law

Graduate prospects

Embedded placement opportunities ensure that our students go on to employment or further study. Our innovative degrees are designed to connect with in-demand subjects and skills

Explore our school

Female student in lecture.

Economics

Within Economics we act as advisers to inform governments, institutions and organisations.

Students studying

Politics and International Relations

A thriving space for study, research and public engagement with a strong focus on applied politics.

Two students looking at a laptop together

Sociology

With a focus on policy-oriented sociology, criminology, and media and communication, our work will combat inequalities and champion diversity.

Surrey Law School

At Surrey Law School, we train lawyers with vision - lawyers who think big.

News

ERSC Festival of Social Science flag

18 NOV 2024

Strategies to help young people lead healthy digital lives

Josh Andresen

14 NOV 2024

Dr Joshua Andresen helps settle case challenging US Treasury Department’s unlawful suppression of political speech

12 NOV 2024

£8m ERC Synergy Grant could help unravel the mysteries of human language

Events

Meet the team

Professor Bebhinn Donnelly-Lazarov

Head of the School of Social Sciences | Professor of Law

Bebhinn joined Surrey Law School in September 2017, and served as head of school from 2021 - 2024. She became Head of the School of Social Sciences at its inception in August 2024.  Bebhinn is a graduate of Trinity College Dublin (where she was an exhibitioner), The Inns of Court School of Law, and Birmingham University. She is a member of Middle Temple and the Bar of North...
Meet the team