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Department

Sociology and Criminology

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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.

Our courses
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Celebrating sixty years of Sociology at Essex

The Department of Sociology and Criminology at the University of Essex is one of the earliest sociology departments in Britain. We have been at the forefront of sociological research and thought since the 1960's. Discover more about our history as we celebrate our sixtieth anniversary.

Read more
Professor Linsey McGoey, Head of the Department of Sociology at the University of Essex.
"If you want to be challenged, see the world differently, and be taught in innovative and imaginative ways, welcome to Essex."
Professor Linsey McGoey Head of the Department of Sociology and criminology

Why
choose us?

Our academics will teach you to improve modern society
1st for research environment in sociology (Grade Point Average, Research Excellence Framework 2021)
Dedicated Student Resource Centre offering academic and personal support
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Undergraduate study

Develop your sociological imagination

Why are societies not equal? Why are some violent? You look at big questions using your sociological imagination that you develop with us, to take out into the world and make it better.

Masters study

Shaping society

We want you to embrace conflicting viewpoints and to carry out your own research using the skills that our experts teach you.
Research degrees

Work with world-leading scholars

You work closely with our academics who supervise you across a range of topics that stretch across Europe, North America, Latin America and Asia.
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Attend an Open Day

Essex Open Days are a chance for you to see where you might be calling home. Chat with students and staff, tour our campuses and accommodation, listen to talks from academics and join a taster lecture.

Book your place
Latest news
University of Essex hits record 50 active KTPs
11 Apr 2025
QS Rankings place Essex amongst top universities for sociology again
12 Mar 2025
Revealing history of serial violence is helping victims
05 Mar 2025
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Get in touch with us

If you would like any more information about sociology and criminology, or have a question you would like to ask, please complete this short enquiry form.

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Contact us
Department of Sociology and Criminology University of Essex
Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, CO4 3SQ
Telephone: 01206 873275
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  • +44 (0) 1206 873333
  • University of Essex
  • Wivenhoe Park
  • Colchester CO4 3SQ

 

 

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