School of Humanities and Social Sciences

At the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, we firmly believe that education cultivates your understanding, abilities, expertise, and self-assurance to enact positive change on a global scale. Our commitment lies in offering forward-thinking undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, designed to prepare you to grasp and tackle the world's most urgent challenges.

As the Head of School, I am honoured to extend a warm welcome to you as you embark on a journey of exploration, discovery, and personal growth within our vibrant academic community.

At the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic learning environment where curiosity is encouraged, ideas are celebrated, and knowledge is actively pursued.

Whether you're embarking on your undergraduate studies, pursuing advanced research at the postgraduate level, or engaging in lifelong learning through our continuing education courses, you'll find ample opportunities to expand your horizons and make meaningful contributions to society.

Our dedicated staff team are experts in their fields and passionate educators committed to supporting your academic journey every step of the way. With their guidance and mentorship, you'll be empowered to challenge assumptions, think critically, and positively impact your chosen field and beyond.

Welcome to our community.

Dr Paul Taylor

Head of School

School of Humanities and Social Sciences

Two people walking outdoors in an hill landscape.

Areas of Expertise Humanities, Cultures and Environment

Our subjects explore the rich tapestry of human expression, where we delve into the complexities of cultures past and present and investigate the intricate relationship between society and the environment. Our diverse disciplines include theology and religious studies, archaeology, languages, geography, history, and natural hazard management. We foster a vibrant academic community where students and scholars engage in thought-provoking dialogue and ground-breaking research. We offer a transformative educational experience that broadens horizons and inspires our students’ intellectual journey.

Student takes notes on a laptop during a criminology lecture, with a lecturer presenting in the background.

Areas of Expertise Social and Political Sciences

Dedicated to understanding the complexities of human society, our academic team are at the forefront of research in sociology, international relations and politics, criminology, economics, counselling and trauma studies, and beyond. From dissecting global political dynamics, to unravelling the intricacies of social inequality, our scholars delve into the pressing issues that shape our world today. At Chester, we go beyond the classroom, empowering students to become agents of change in their communities. Through experiential learning opportunities, placements, and fieldwork, we equip our graduates with the skills and insights needed to navigate the complexities of contemporary society.

Areas of Expertise Student Exchange and Language Development

Our courses are designed to broaden horizons, foster cultural understanding, and enhance language proficiency. Through our Student Exchange programmes, students can embark on life-changing adventures, immerse themselves in new cultures, and gain invaluable experiences. But it's not just about exploration - it's also about growth. Our Language Development initiatives give students the tools to become confident communicators in an increasingly globalised world. We're committed to helping our students unlock new linguistic skills and connect with people from diverse backgrounds.