School of Social and Political Science at the University of Edinburgh
The School of Social and Political Science (SSPS) is a premier academic department situated within the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. Dedicated to the study of human society and governance, the school combines rigorous research with high-quality teaching across a diverse range of disciplines.
Academic Disciplines and Research Areas
The school is organized into several constituent subject areas, each focusing on critical aspects of the modern world. These disciplines include:
- Politics and International Relations
- Sociology
- Social Policy
- Social Anthropology
- Social Work
- Sustainable Development
- Science, Technology & Innovation Studies
Beyond these core subjects, the school hosts several specialized research hubs and institutes. These include the Europa Institute, the Centre for Security Research, and the Innogen Institute, the latter of which is a collaborative effort with the Open University. Additionally, the school supports dedicated Centres for African Studies, Canadian Studies, and South Asian Studies.
Campus and Legacy
The school is primarily housed in the Chrystal Macmillan Building on George Square. This landmark is named in honor of Chrystal Macmillan, a prominent suffragist and the first woman to graduate in science from the university. Notably, it remains one of only two buildings at the University of Edinburgh named after a woman.
Institutional Strength and Leadership
Under the leadership of Dean Professor John Devaney, a Professor of Social Work, the school maintains a robust academic community. The faculty and staff comprise over 400 full-time and part-time academics, supported by nearly 100 professional services staff members to ensure a comprehensive educational environment.
Global Academic Standing
The School of Social and Political Science is recognized globally for its excellence, consistently placing high in international rankings. Its performance across various metrics demonstrates a strong reputation in the social sciences.
| Ranking Body & Year | Subject Area | Rank/Position |
|---|---|---|
| QS World University Rankings by Subject (2025) | Social Policy | 13 |
| QS World University Rankings by Subject (2025) | Anthropology | 17 |
| QS World University Rankings by Subject (2025) | Sociology | 30 |
| QS World University Rankings by Subject (2025) | Political Science | 31 |
| Times Higher Education (2025) | Social Sciences | 38 |
| Academic Ranking of World Universities (2024) | Sociology | 31 |
| Academic Ranking of World Universities (2024) | Political Science | 51-75 |
Key Facts
- Location: Primarily based in the Chrystal Macmillan Building, George Square, Edinburgh.
- Leadership: Led by Dean Professor John Devaney.
- Staffing: Over 400 academics and nearly 100 professional services staff.
- Specialized Centers: Includes the Europa Institute and centers for African, Canadian, and South Asian studies.
- Distinction: One of only two university buildings named after a woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which college does the School of Social and Political Science belong to?
The school is a department within the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Edinburgh.
Who is the current dean of the school?
The current dean is Professor John Devaney, who is a Professor of Social Work.
What is the significance of the Chrystal Macmillan Building?
It is the primary base for the school and is named after Chrystal Macmillan, the university's first female science graduate and a suffragist. It is one of only two buildings at the university named after a woman.
What are some of the top-ranked subjects at SSPS?
According to the 2025 QS World University Rankings by Subject, Social Policy is ranked 13th, Anthropology 17th, Sociology 30th, and Political Science 31st.
Does the school collaborate with other institutions?
Yes, the school operates the Innogen Institute in collaboration with the Open University.