Faculty of Social Sciences

We are a leading Faculty of Social Sciences and our rankings reflect this across our subject areas. We're ranked Top 5 in the UK for Education, 1st in Scotland for Criminology, and Top 10 in the UK for Social Policy (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023).

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Study with us

With a diverse range of globally recognised courses, we’ll help you to be the difference in your chosen career. From sociology to education, all of our social science courses are taught by lecturers who are experts in their fields.

We deliver many courses that facilitate opportunities for you to gain widespread practical experience, promote postgraduate research, and allow you to achieve your ambitions.

Study in the Faculty of Social Sciences
Undergraduate study
CPD and short courses
Postgraduate taught
Postgraduate research
View Social Sciences staff directory

ESRC Festival of Social Science

Stirling Social Science Impact Acceleration Account is taking part in the UK’s biggest celebration of social science research this Nov.

ESRC Festival of Social Science

World-leading research

Our research and teaching covers Dementia, Education, Housing, Sociology, Social Policy and Criminology, and Social Work. Our 70 academic staff and researchers produce research that makes a positive social impact around the world.

Research in social sciences

Careers in social sciences

Studying with us will give you opportunities to connect with organisations, go on placement, study abroad and guide your personal and professional development. We'll prepare you for your career in social sciences.

Careers in social sciences

Social Sciences divisions

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Dementia and Ageing

Explore how we're enhancing the lives of older people and people with dementia around the world.

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Sociology, Social Policy and Criminology

We use our expertise in Sociology, Social Policy and Criminology to understand and improve society.

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Education

Education has a thriving community of staff, undergraduate and postgraduate students.

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Social Work

We will prepare you for a rewarding career in this important field. 

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The Faculty's Equality Diversity and Inclusion Committee works in a number of areas including protected characteristics (under the Equality Act), social class and gender. The committee is comprised of academics, professional service staff and post-graduate researchers.

We proudly hold a bronze Athena Swan award for our commitment to gender equality, which involves delivering a five-year action plan on intersectional inequalities. 

News

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Scottish Borders Council works with University of Stirling on dementia-friendly care village

Scottish Borders Council works with University of Stirling on dementia-friendly care village

Members from Scottish Borders Council visited University of Stirling dementia design experts this week to explore options for the region’s new Tweedbank care village.

Be part of the play in unique theatre event coming to Alloa

Be part of the play in unique theatre event coming to Alloa

A unique theatre experience is coming to Alloa where the audience is invited to steer the play.