Old Building entrance

About us

Internationally recognised for teaching and research on social and public policy.

Our department has an international reputation for excellence and is ranked third in the world for Social Policy in the QS World University Rankings 2022
Video introducing Social Policy at LSE London School of Economics and Political Science Video introducing Social Policy at LSE London School of Economics and Political Science
London School of Economics and Political Science

The Department of Social Policy is an internationally recognised centre of research and teaching in social and public policy. From its foundation in 1912 it has carried out cutting edge research on core social problems, and helped to develop policy solutions.

The Department today is distinguished by its multidisciplinarity, its international and comparative approach, and its particular strengths in behavioural public policy, criminology, development, economic and social inequality, education, migration, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and population change and the lifecourse.

Our international faculty have backgrounds in anthropology, demography, economics, political science, sociology, as well as social and public policy. Their interests cover policies and issues in high and low and middle income countries. Our pedagogical approach is research-led and inclusive, focused on policy problems and solutions, using applications from around the world, and maximising opportunities for student learning.

Our alumni can be found in government positions in numerous countries, in national and international NGOs, in the private sector and consulting, in public sector organisations, and in universities across the world.