Over 70 years of the School of Sociology and Social Policy

When joining the school of Sociology and Social Policy, you become part of a thriving, international community which is renowned for its leading research and exceptional teaching.

Social Sciences building

School of Sociology and Social Policy - Timeline

Our history

Our global reputation for progressive study in social science is built upon a legacy of notable alumni, landmark research and world-changing innovation across the disciplines of sociology and social policy.

Explore our timeline which traces the School's 70-year history from 1946 to the present day.

1948

Ferando Henriques is appointed as lecturer of Social Anthropology. He is one of the first black social scientists to be elected in a British university.

197X?

Reflecting the rapid growth of social science research, the School expands to encompass Sociology and Public Administration.

198X

Fiona Williams OBE publishes [name], a leading investigation into the impact of [subject].

Tony Coxon completes PhD in [field]. He will later become principal investigator of Project SIGMA, a major HIV/Aids investigation informing government and World Health Organisation policy.

1994

Dr Colin Barnes establishes the Centre for Disability Studies, incorporating and developing the research of the Disability Research Unit.

2010

The Bauman Institute is founded by Dr Mark Davis, collaborating with the Faculty of Arts, the Leeds University Business School and the Sustainability Research Institute to develop critical empirical analyses of social, economic, environmental and political life.

2016

Sociology in Action launches Beyond the University, linking students with local organisations to support social reform through collaborative research projects.

2018

Social sciences at Leeds ranked 88th in the World University Rankings by Times Higher Education.