Sociology and Politics of Science (SPS)

This social science degree examines modern society and the role of technology and science in building our world.

Sociology and Politics of Science (SPS)

This social science degree examines the role of technology and science in building our world. We combine approaches from sociology, politics, policy, ethics and science communication to ask questions such as:

• How can we safely develop AI?
• What role does science play in our understanding of gender?
• How do we address climate change?
• What is the future of medical care?

Sometimes known as ‘PPE for the 21st century’, this BSc is unique to UCL in the UK. You do not need science A-Levels to enjoy and understand SPS – just a curiosity about our technological society.

Our graduates go on to careers including policy, politics, research, public relations, civil service and consultancy.

Find out more about the programme, the modules on offer and how to apply on the Programme Prospectus.

Find out what students think about our Sociology and Politics of Science (SPS)

Malikah 

Why did you choose your course?

Personally, when looking for a degree I didn't find myself wanting to delve into just one mainstream subject. Throughout my entire education I've been learning subjects quite isolated from each other, but I found that I was connecting topics and theories within my head. This course, is a perfect combination of using a subject with an initially historical creation in a temporary context. I'm able to apply my course to the world I interact with today. My course also addresses growing contemporary concerns such as in terms of the contexts of AI, healthcare and politics.

Who would get the most out of a course like this?

Everyone. This course is not a course with static concerns. This course looks at investigating the contemporary world especially AI, climate tech, healthcare, and policy making. This course focuses on the ethical dimensions of science and technology. This is increasingly important as industries and governments make decisions that impact privacy, equity, and justice. Graduates can play key roles in shaping policies that align with global issues.

What do you like most about the degree?

I love the flexibility of my degree- I am able to chose modules from other departments who help me address today's challenges. The selection of modules caters to my concerns about today's world and I can consciously evaluate perspectives presented to me. There is also never a wrong answer, this is a growing degree, which means my peers and professors always extend and discuss intellectual concerns in seminars and lectures.

What are the lecturers like?

The department lecturers are deeply passionate about what they teach. This passion is contagious and can spark your own interest in the subject. When they genuinely care about the material, it shows in their enthusiasm, and it motivates students to engage with the content more deeply.  Lecturers in this department often excel at encouraging students to ask "why" and "how." They create a learning environment where questioning is valued, and they challenge students to critically analyse both science and society. This pushes students to develop their own informed opinions, rather than passively absorbing facts.

Nazmine

Why did you choose your course?

I chose this course because I am interested in the subjects of Technology, Sociology, and Politics. The Sociology and Politics of Science degree felt like the ideal choice because it combined all my interests, allowing me to explore them together rather than having to choose just one. Science and technology is rapidly developing and plays a major role in how society functions. I felt that my previous studies in Sociology didn’t fully address this influence, but the Sociology of Science does.

Who would get the most out of a course like this?

I think those who would get the most out of this course is anyone interested in science and technology who is also a passionate, proactive student and eager to learn new things. From discussions with my peers, many of us prior to coming to UCL did not have any academic experience in STS. However, this wasn’t an obstacle and shouldn’t deter anyone from applying. As the department did a good job of introducing us to areas such as philosophy of science, science communication and science policy.

What do you like most about the degree?

What I like most about the degree is its strong interdisciplinary focus. This approach allows me to explore a variety of subjects which opens a wide range of career options. By not having to specialise like other degree programs. This course doesn’t restrict me to one specific path, giving me greater flexibility in future career choices. I also appreciate the variety and quality of the modules offered. There are many topics to choose from so there is something for everyone's interests.

What are the lecturers like?

The lecturers are friendly and I can ask them for support and guidance on academic, career and even personal matters. Regarding their teaching the lectures and seminars are of high quality due to their passion in their fields. This allows classes to be well structured and engaging.

Contact our Undergraduate Tutor:

Dr Charlotte Sleigh
STS Undergraduate Tutor
c.sleigh@ucl.ac.uk