Social science in action

The University of Liverpool is one of the UK's leading centres for sociology, social policy and criminology, and has been for over 100 years. Our shared pursuit of research-based knowledge in support of social justice sets this department apart from most of its contemporaries in the UK and beyond.

Discover research at Liverpool:

An influential voice in the world

Watch this short film to find out more about the Department of Sociology, Social Policy and Criminology, and what makes us distinctive.

Study with us Two students carrying books, walk past a book shelf filled with books.

Study

Study at the Department of Sociology, Social Policy and Criminology, where you’ll engage with research-based knowledge that champions social justice. Learn from world-leading experts and develop valuable skills for your future career in an inspiring and supportive environment.

Interchange Interchange Logo white text on a green background.

Interchange

Interchange is a registered charity (Charity No:1038129) based in the Department of Sociology, Social Policy and Criminology that provides students with the opportunity to work with Voluntary and Community Organisations on research and work-based learning projects. Read more about the work Interchange do.

Research Two students sat sharing a coffee at a table in the School of Law and Social Justice building.

Research

Our critical research is concerned with a variety of topics ranging across crime and social harm, contemporary political arrangements and their implications, and the production and consumption of culture. Read more about our research and its impact. 

Eleanor Rathbone Public Lecture Series Painting of Eleanor Rathbone.

Eleanor Rathbone Public Lecture Series

Our Eleanor Rathbone Social Justice Public Lectures are a long-standing annual public lecture series hosted by the Department, and presented by leading figures who have made distinctive contributions to the advancement of social justice.