Undergraduate study

Sociology is a rich and dynamic discipline that gives you the tools to understand how societies work, how they change, and why inequalities and differences persist.

At Royal Holloway, you will develop a sophisticated understanding of contemporary social, cultural and political change, while learning how to investigate the world around you through rigorous sociological research. You will encounter different theoretical perspectives, engage with current debates and develop the confidence to question assumptions, challenge established ideas and develop your own arguments.

Throughout the degree, you will develop a broad range of intellectual and transferable skills, including:

• Understanding contemporary society – explore the major social, cultural and political issues shaping societies in the UK and around the world, and examine how these issues affect people's lives and experiences.
• Critical and theoretical thinking – engage with different approaches to understanding social justice, gender and sexuality, race and racism, violence, health, religion, migration, inequality, technology and digital life.
• Research and analytical skills – learn how to design and conduct sociological research using both qualitative and quantitative methods, analyse evidence and draw well-supported conclusions.
• Independent thinking – develop your ability to formulate questions, evaluate competing arguments and think critically and creatively about complex social problems.
• Communication – learn to communicate ideas clearly and persuasively in writing, discussion and presentations, and to adapt your communication to different audiences.

Shape your own degree

Our new single-honours BA Sociology, launching for 2027 entry, is designed to give you the freedom to shape your studies around the questions and subjects that genuinely interest you.

Your first year provides a strong foundation in sociological theory, research methods and academic skills. You will be introduced to some of the major concepts and debates in sociology while developing the practical skills needed to carry out your own research and engage confidently with academic work.

As you progress into your second and third years, you will have increasing opportunities to choose from a diverse range of modules. This flexibility allows you to develop your own intellectual pathway through sociology, whether your interests lie in inequality and social justice, gender and sexuality, race and migration, health, violence, politics, culture, religion, technology or other areas of contemporary social life.

In your final year, you will bring together the knowledge and skills you have developed through an independent research dissertation. Working closely with an academic supervisor, you will identify a question that interests you, undertake your own research and develop an extended piece of sociological analysis. The dissertation is an opportunity to pursue a subject in depth while demonstrating your ability to work independently as a researcher.

Learn from research at the forefront of sociology

Your learning will be informed by the research expertise of our academic staff. You will have opportunities to explore questions and debates emerging from research taking place within the Department, connecting what you learn in the classroom with some of the most important developments in contemporary sociology.

This research-led environment means that your degree is not simply an introduction to established sociological ideas. It is an opportunity to participate in an evolving discipline, encounter different perspectives and engage with questions that sociologists are actively investigating today.

Take sociology beyond the classroom

You can also enrich your degree through opportunities for placements, professional development and networking with civil society and community organisations. These experiences allow you to apply your sociological knowledge to real-world contexts, gain insight into different professional environments and develop valuable connections beyond the University.

Whether you are interested in policy and government, education, communications and media, NGOs and the voluntary sector, social and market research, public services or other professional careers, Sociology gives you a strong foundation of research, analytical, communication and critical-thinking skills.

Most importantly, studying Sociology at Royal Holloway will give you the opportunity to develop your own way of seeing the social world: to ask difficult questions, investigate evidence, understand perspectives different from your own and develop informed responses to the challenges facing societies today.

Supportive learning

At Royal Holloway, you will be part of a supportive academic community where you can develop your ideas, ask questions and gain confidence as you progress through your degree. Our department places a strong emphasis on making sure students have the guidance and support they need to succeed.

From the beginning of your studies, you will have a Personal Tutor who will provide academic advice and pastoral support throughout your degree. Your Personal Tutor is a point of contact when you need advice about your studies, your progress or life at university, and can help you make the most of the opportunities available to you.

You will also have access to Moodle, our comprehensive online learning platform, where you can find lecture materials, readings, handouts and other resources to support your learning.

Teaching combines lectures with tutorials and seminars, giving you opportunities both to engage with new ideas and to explore them in greater depth with your tutors and fellow students. On average, you will have 10–15 hours of formal contact time each week, complemented by around 25 hours of independent study. This might include reading, library research, preparing for seminars, developing your own research and writing essays and reports.

We also use a variety of assessment methods so that you can develop and demonstrate different skills. Depending on your modules, assessments may include essays, portfolios, report writing, creative work such as zine-making, and oral presentations. You will receive feedback throughout your studies to help you understand your progress and develop your academic skills.

You will have access to a subject-specific library space as well as the wider study facilities and resources available through the Davison Library, providing spaces and materials to support both independent study and collaborative learning.

Student life

University is about more than what happens in the classroom. At Royal Holloway, you will become part of a diverse and welcoming community of students and staff, with opportunities to meet people from different backgrounds, develop new interests and make connections that can last well beyond your degree.

Our undergraduate community brings together students from across the UK and around the world, creating a lively environment in which different experiences and perspectives can come together. You will have opportunities to get involved in departmental and University activities, contribute to the life of the department and take an active role in your student community.

Many students also become student ambassadors, representing the department at school visits, open days and taster events. These opportunities allow you to share your experience with prospective students while developing valuable communication, leadership and interpersonal skills.

Throughout the year, we also organise social activities and events designed to help students meet one another, build friendships and feel at home within the department. Whether you are getting involved in academic activities, representing the department, attending social events or simply spending time with other students, there are plenty of ways to make your own contribution to our community.

Our aim is to create an environment where you feel supported, connected and able to thrive, both academically and personally.