Cambridge Sociology Postgraduate Fund

Cambridge Sociology Postgraduate Fund

Give online
to support Cambridge Sociology Postgraduate Fund

  • decorative

An initiative aimed at fostering the future of sociological research and education at the University of Cambridge.

Sociology at Cambridge

At the University of Cambridge, Sociology holds a unique position, blending rigorous academic inquiry with empirical research and interdisciplinary collaboration, with a deep commitment to public sociology. Our department is at the forefront of sociological research, pushing the boundaries of knowledge and shedding light on the complexities of contemporary society. From analysing social inequalities to examining cultural identities and social movements, Cambridge sociologists are making significant contributions to global scholarship.

Distinguished alumni

Our rich legacy of sociological scholarship is reflected in our distinguished alumni, who have gone on to become leaders in academia, policymaking, social advocacy, and research institutions around the world. From Professor Anthony Giddens, whose influential work in social theory has shaped contemporary sociology, to Professor Saskia Sassen, whose research on globalization and urban sociology has had a profound impact, to the late MP Jo Cox, Cambridge Sociology alumni have made an impact far beyond the university walls.

Student numbers

The Department of Sociology is internationally renowned for its interdisciplinary approach, fostering collaborations across various fields such as anthropology, economics, history, and political science. With academic staff members researching issues ranging from social inequalities, to science and technology, media, culture, politics and social theory, and with state-of-the-art research facilities, we provide a vibrant and supportive environment for sociological research and education. Annually, our department welcomes a diverse cohort of approximately 200 undergraduate students through the HSPS tripos, and 75 postgraduate students, making it one of the most dynamic hubs for sociological study in the world. Our students have the opportunity to engage in research projects addressing pressing social issues, undertake strong methodological training, and contribute to innovative solutions. However, the costs associated with postgraduate study can pose a barrier for many talented individuals, limiting access to this transformative educational experience.

Widening Access: how you can help

The Cambridge Sociology Postgraduate Appeal seeks to address this challenge by establishing a dedicated fund to support postgraduate students in sociology. By gathering small-scale contributions from alumni, friends, and supporters, we can provide vital financial assistance to students, covering expenses such as tuition fees, research costs, and fieldwork opportunities. This support not only enables talented individuals to pursue their academic ambitions but also ensures that the future of sociology remains diverse, vibrant, and inclusive.

The Department of Sociology is committed to encouraging a broad range of students to apply to study at Cambridge and to ensuring that the student body is representative of the full diversity of the UK population. Graduate students bring fresh perspectives, critical insights, and innovative ideas to the study of society and social change. They learn, through research, to analyse complex social phenomena, to challenge prevailing assumptions, and to contribute to informed public debate. A more diverse cohort of students enriches scholarly discourse, fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, and strengthens our capacity to address pressing social challenges.

Recent postgraduate students of the Department of Sociology have gone on from Cambridge to exceptional roles, for example:

  • Consuelo Sáizar ( PhD 2021) is a book publisher and CEO of several publishers and is the former President of the National Council for Culture and the Arts (which has become Mexico’s Ministry of Culture), and of UNESCO’s Regional Centre for the Promotion of Books and Reading in Latin America and the Caribbean.
  • Asiya Islam (PhD 2019), a former Gates Scholar, is an Assistant Professor in Gender, Development and Globalisation at the London School of Economics, a member of the Feminist Review editorial collective, associate editor for New Technology, Work and Employment, and an editor for the ethnographic storytelling magazine Otherwise. Her book, ‘A Woman’s Job: Making Middle Lives in New India’ was published by Cambridge University Press in 2024.

Others have gone on to successful careers in academia, including Oxford University, University of Manchester, University of Vienna, Kings College London and others.

In order to continue to cultivate the strongest sociology graduate programs possible, it is essential that the most promising students — regardless of their background or financial circumstances — have the opportunity to study here. Supporting postgraduate students has a profound impact not only on their trajectories but also on their ability to contribute to the wider world.

Join us

Your contribution to the Cambridge Sociology Postgraduate Appeal will make a significant difference in the lives of aspiring sociologists and the future of our discipline. Together, we can ensure that the pursuit of knowledge in sociology transcends barriers and that the voices of diverse perspectives shape our understanding of society, culture, and social change.

Support the Cambridge Sociology Postgraduate Fund

Give online or to discuss your philanthropic goals please contact:

Make a gift now

Make a gift now to support Cambridge Sociology Postgraduate Fund by credit or debit card, or set up a direct debit:

Give online

Or, find out about other ways to give.

Clare Gordon

Associate Director — Humanities and Social Sciences

clare.gordon@admin.cam.ac.uk

This opportunity is part of

Cambridge has a strong and vibrant tradition of teaching and research in sociology.