Hello incoming students,
Welcome to the University of Oxford and to the Department of Sociology! We are thrilled that you have selected us for your studies and research, and we sincerely hope you will have a rewarding and fulfilling experience here.
Sociology at Oxford has a strong analytical, empirical and comparative orientation. Our goal is to develop theories that address real-world challenges, a mission that has earned us global acclaim. The QS Rankings by Subject 2023 ranked us second in the world (and first in the UK & Europe). Additionally, in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF), an impressive 63% of Oxford's submission was rated 4* - the highest possible score - signifying our research's world-leading quality in terms of originality, significance, and rigor. This achievement represents the highest overall percentage of world-leading research in the UK.
Oxford has a long and distinguished history of sociological research, and the Department was formed in 1999 to provide a renewed focus for research and teaching in the University. Today, we are a close-knit, international community of around 40 staff and 100 students – all driven by intellectual curiosity, ambition, and a genuine passion for Sociology. You can learn more about our community here.
In the week before term begins, known as 0th Week, there will be a number of Department events which will give you a chance to meet new people and be introduced to Department life. Your College will also contact you separately about College events and inductions. Be sure to check your Oxford email regularly so you don't miss any crucial information. Please note, in order to activate your email account, you will need to have returned your University Card Form confirming your intention to enrol at the University (you will have received this alongside your Completion of Conditions letter).
Oxford is a wonderful place to live and provides abundant opportunities to enjoy while engaging in study and research. Make sure to read about the Social Sciences Division, the Social Science Library, the wider University, your College, and other student organisations.
Please read the following information carefully before your arrival to Oxford. If you cannot find the answer to your question on our website, please contact Hannah Brawn, Graduate Studies Officer, by email. Please note, course handbooks will be issued at the beginning of term.
We look forward to meeting you all in person.
Warm regards,
The Department of Sociology