Sociology degrees
Sociology at the University of Exeter explores the ways in which we think to help you to develop a critical understanding of the rise and transformation of modern societies.
Study Sociology at the University of Exeter
Studying Sociology at the University of Exeter will provide you with a strong foundation in sociological theory, practical skills in research methods, examples of classic studies of inequality, and develop a critical appreciation of how we study the social world.
Our Department of Social and Political Sciences, Philosophy, and Anthropology is highly respected both domestically and globally, with intellectually stimulating teaching driven by our well-established research culture and commitment to interdisciplinary work.
Our Sociology degrees and courses
Our Sociology degrees are taught on our Streatham Campus in Exeter.
Undergraduate degrees
Masters degrees
Interdisciplinary undergraduate degrees
You can choose to study Sociology as part of a joint-honours degree at undergraduate level through one of our combined honours courses.
Related subjects
You can search a full list of subject areas taught at the University of Exeter.
Top 10 in the UK for Sociology
10th in the Complete University Guide 2026
100% of our Sociology research has internationally excellent impact
Based on research impact rated 4* + 3* in REF 2021
Top 100 in the world for Political Sciences
Global Ranking of Academic Subjects (GRAS) or Shanghai Rankings 2025
The University of Exeter is 155th in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and 170th in the THE World Rankings 2026
Frequently asked questions about studying Sociology
What career prospects would I have with a Sociology degree?
As a Sociology graduate you will be well prepared for a number of careers including teaching, the media, business, social research, work in the public and charity sectors, and the legal profession. Throughout your studies you will develop your critical thinking, research and communication skills as you explore social issues such as inequality, identity and social change. These skills prepare you for careers in social research, public policy, charities, and other roles that require a nuanced understanding of society and its dynamics.
Find out more about your future career with a sociology degree.
Can international students apply for Sociology degrees?
Yes. Our international student community is part of what makes Exeter a top worldwide university. International students are welcome to apply for Bachelors (undergraduate) and Masters (postgraduate taught) degrees with us, as well as for postgraduate research opportunities.
For more information, visit our international students webpages.
My lecturers and teaching staff have encouraged me to take a critical perspective of everything in the social world, which has opened my eyes not only academically but also has enriched the way I see the world more generally!
My favourite thing about the course has been learning the skills to do my own social research, which I will ultimately put into practice in my dissertation project. I found research methods daunting before coming to university, but at Exeter I have developed the skills and confidence to apply these methods to research topics I genuinely care about.
That's why I love sociology - it feels like you can study whatever you are passionate about through a sociological lens, and by doing so you can go on to make a positive difference in the world.
Nina
BA Sociology
Sociology and the Centre for Computational Science (C2S2)
Exeter is recognised for its distinctive emphasis on cultural sociology, science and technology studies, inequalities and the sociology of health and medicine. You’ll benefit from a lively research environment as your teachers will contribute to current debates, giving you access to the latest thinking and resources.
Our unique environment allows for a productive fusion of the social sciences, creating cross-over research domains. Students who choose to study Sociology will also benefit from being part of the Exeter Centre for Computational Science (C2S2), which provides quantitative methods training in the social sciences. C2S2 trains students in data management, analysis and interpretation.
Doing Sociology and Anthropology meant that there were so many modules to choose from. I found all of my lecturers and tutorial leaders to be engaging and they helped to make the course even more interesting. It’s given me a new world-view on a number of topics I wouldn’t necessarily have considered.
I have also met so many people through the flexibility of the course being mixed with criminology, politics, anthropology, psychology (and more) students which has meant that I have also been able to see how different disciplines think academically compared to my main discipline of sociology. It is really interesting to have friends who think very differently to you but on the same thing!
Genevieve
Undergraduate student, BA Sociology and Anthropology