School of Social Sciences & Global Studies

The School of Social Sciences and Global Studies at The Open University is a hub for disciplinary and interdisciplinary research and research-led teaching that aims to tackle some of the most pressing challenges faced by societies across the globe.

We offer an intellectually stimulating environment for academic staff and students, including a lively postgraduate research community.

- Prof Shonil Bhagwat (Head of School, SSGS)

Welcome to our second issue of the Social Sciences and Global Studies Magazine – an annual publication that provides insight into impactful and transformative work spanning the School’s eight disciplines. Download the full magazine.

Two students talking Copyright: OU Prospectus 2021

Study

The School offers a deliberately unconventional combination of disciplinary traditions which support a wide range of interdisciplinary and disciplinary modules and qualifications.

Students with plans Copyright: © Pixabay

Research

The School is a hub for disciplinary and interdisciplinary research and research-led teaching that aims to tackle some of the most pressing challenges faced by societies across the globe.

Hand holding glass ball Copyright: © Yeshi Kangrang on Unsplash

Outreach and External Engagement

Through the pursuit of strategic partnerships and progressive engagement, we strive to make a difference in the wider world.

Planet Earth on the background of blurred lights of the city. Copyright: @ Triff / Shutterstock

Centre for Global Challenges and Social Justice

Established in October 2021, the Centre provides critical, interdisciplinary insight, and innovative, social justice driven solutions to challenges facing contemporary global societies.

News

Join the OU Tilt this summer solstice
8th June 2022
With the summer solstice almost upon us, Stephen Peake, Professor of Climate Change, and Graham Harvey, Professor of Religious Studies, are asking...
Politics lecturer awarded prestigious teaching prize
20th April 2022
Dr Donna Smith, Senior Lecturer in Politics, has been awarded the Jennie Lee Prize for Outstanding Teaching by the Political Studies Association (...
FASS expert shares insights on appeasement in the Ukraine crisis
22nd February 2022
Professor of Foreign Policy and International Relations, Jamie Gaskarth, comments on growing tensions between Ukraine and Russia and the history...