Have you ever wondered how human societies developed as they have? 
Pursue the answers through our unique range of related HSPS disciplines, some that may be new to you. 
 

One of the advantages of this degree is its flexibility. Try out new subjects before deciding to specialise or study a combination.  
 
You can also tailor the course to your specific interests from the start, including options on archaeology, biological anthropology, or psychology. HSPS is an exciting way to study a broad spectrum of human experience, past and present, from different disciplinary perspectives. 
 

HSPS includes 3 core disciplines, taught by world-leading departments:
 

Politics and International Relations

Politics is the study of national and international politics and political thought. If you are interested in democracy, the causes and outcomes of war, human rights, elections, economic crises and political thinkers, then Politics and International Relations is the subject for you.

Visit the Department of Politics and International Studies (POLIS) website
 

Sociology

Study the ways our modern societies are changing, exploring the main forces and social institutions shaping them. Ever wonder why nationalism is such a powerful force in the world? Why there are protests, uprisings, and revolutions? Why poverty, inequality and racism persist? Why politicians are not trusted? How globalisation is changing our lives? Whether societies could ever be more just? Then Sociology is the subject for you.  
 
Visit the Department of Sociology website 
 

Social Anthropology

Investigate what it is to be human. Social Anthropology explores the full range of human social and cultural diversity: the amazingly varied ways that people live, think and relate to each other in every part of the world. If you are interested in finding out about your own and other people's cultures, societies and economies, in how they differ, and what they have in common, Social Anthropology is the subject for you. 
 
Visit the Department of Social Anthropology website 

Suggested reading list for prospective students

We aren't looking to test your knowledge acquired from certain books. We are looking for your capacity to read widely and critically, to develop ideas flexibly, and to show potential to thrive on the course. 

You can gain insight into the available HSPS subjects by reading some of the books on our recommended list. Don't try to cover them all – just pick some of the titles that interest you.   

There will be material here that will allow you to move beyond the specifications of subjects you are currently studying and to learn something of subjects you have not yet studied.