School of Law and Social Sciences

In an ever-changing society that faces social disruption and changes, our portfolio of courses will help you make a real impact. We are looking for students who have drive, energy and ambition and want to make a positive impact to society today, tomorrow and in the future.

Welcome to the School of Law and Social Sciences

The School of Law and Social Sciences encompasses law, criminology, policing and social sciences.

Get straight to the heart of the questions that matter. Our courses spark debate, ignite your curiosity and challenge you to think differently about criminal behaviour and social justice. You’ll develop high-level professional skills from day one – ready for a future where you can influence the decisions that affect us all.

Join our vibrant learning community at One Friar Gate Square and be inspired by lecturers who are passionate about their subjects and active in their research field. We set the bar high, with teaching underpinned by rigorous professional standards and a strong sense of citizenship – giving you the skills and expertise needed in our world today.

Global perspectives are an integral part of all our courses in the School of Law and Social Sciences. Recognising the importance of how other countries approach legal, justice and social issues, we offer each student the opportunity to go on international study trips which are included in course fees.

Top15for assessment and feedback - Law**National Student Survey 2023
Top5for satisfaction with feedback - Sociology and Social Policy**Guardian University Guide 2024
Top20for assessment and feedback - Sociology**National Student Survey 2023

A commitment to sustainability

The College of Business Law and Social Sciences has been awarded Carbon Literate Organisation Bronze and Silver status, highlighting our commitment to addressing climate change and promoting sustainability through Carbon Literacy education for College staff.  

Collection of books

Business, Law and Social Sciences academics ranked among most cited researchers

Our research team are in the top 2% of the most highly-cited researchers in the world. They have been featured in the top 160,000 cited researchers out of seven million researchers worldwide.

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Students in the law court

Derby Law School

Derby Law School is home to outstanding teaching, advanced facilities, high graduate employment rate and amazing networking opportunities.

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Community Justice Hub

The Community Justice Hub based in Derby city centre sees students from the School of Law and Social Sciences work collaboratively with the local police and council to tackle crime across the city.

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Bay Bridge in San Fransisco

School of Law and Social Sciences fieldtrips

Discover some of the fieldtrips available to our students in the School of Law and Social Sciences

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Real world learning in the School of Law and Social Sciences

Employability is a key focus in all our courses. Our strong links with practice locally and nationally means that students have the opportunity to gain real world learning experiences throughout the degrees.

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