Studying with us

When studying in the School of Sociology and Social Policy you'll be supported and inspired by the expertise of our academic staff within state-of-the-art facilities. You'll also enjoy access to a wide range of opportunities — each designed to expand your degree according to your interests and aspirations.

Tailoring your degree

Within most years of your degree you'll have the chance to select a number of specialist optional modules, allowing you to tailor your degree to your own personal interests and career ambitions.

You’ll also have the opportunity to explore modules beyond your degree subject. We offer hundreds of possibilities organised into ten themes, including: language and intercultural understanding; media, culture and creativity; and mind and body. These discovery modules are a great way of pursuing your interests in addition to exploring something new. Discovery modules are subject to timetabling, availability and eligibility.

Find out more about discovery modules and explore the options your course offers.

Quantitative Research Methods (QRM) pathway

Some of our degree programmes offer you the chance to apply for a place on our Quantitative Research Methods (QRM) pathway. This pathway gives a quantitative skills focus to your final year of study.

You will learn statistical analysis techniques and their application to real data (e.g. exploring survey data or statistical data relating to poverty, crime or electoral behaviour amongst others) using statistical software. These advanced analytical skills are in demand across the public, private, and third sectors.

On successful completion your degree will reflect these quantitative skills by changing from a BA to BSc e.g. BSc Sociology with Quantitative Research Methods.

Supporting your development

Whilst encouraging you to become a self-motivated learner, our staff will guide you through your studies and help develop the skills you need to become an independent critical thinker.

You'll be assigned a personal tutor, who you'll meet with regularly. They’ll help shape your academic and personal development; providing comprehensive support in meeting your goals and ensuring you get the most out of your time at university.

From your first year to your finals, you’ll also benefit from a diverse programme of support in academic skills and study techniques with access to Skills@Library.

By making use of all the support and resources available, you'll be well-prepared for a rewarding career.

Leeds resources

Our vibrant learning and research community is based in the Social Sciences Building, which has been re-designed to be environmentally sustainable and accessible for disabled students.

Throughout your studies, you'll benefit from state-of-the-art computers, a designated study space common area, group work 'pods' and a student kitchen.

Across campus you'll also have access to:

• Four libraries which are home to over 2.8 million books and journals plus dedicated study spaces
• Over 1500 PCs (with some accessible 24/7) and free Wi-Fi across campus
• Minerva, the University’s Virtual Learning Environment. Typically you might use Minerva to access electronic copies of lecture handouts, follow up on links to additional study resources, or to watch podcasts of lectures
• The Language Centre which offers a broad range of language training and preparation courses. They also run the Language Zone — a resource for all students interested in learning a new language, or keeping up an old one — with language learning materials in over 40 languages.

Read more about academic facilities at the University of Leeds.

Enrichment opportunities to enhance your experience

Choosing your degree is just the start. At Leeds there are many co-curricular opportunities to make the most of your time at university.

This could mean applying to add another year to your degree to study abroad, undertake a work placement or pursue a business idea as an entrepreneur — all contributing to your personal development and employability prospects.

As part of our thriving student community, you can also get involved with a range of clubs and societies, take advantage of our sports and fitness facilities, or join volunteering programmes and international events.

Find out more about enrichment opportunities.