Human, Social & Political Sciences

Human, Social and Political Sciences (HSPS) incorporates politics and international relations, sociology and social anthropology. You will study a range of subjects in the first year, then go on to specialise in one or two disciplines. The great strength of HSPS is its diversity: it is a truly multidisciplinary course, all taught 'from scratch', with no expectation of specific prior knowledge. This makes it fun, as everyone is discovering new material and ideas together. More information about the course can be found on the .

HSPS at 51��

51�� has one of the largest HSPS cohorts in Cambridge. We typically admit 8-10 students per year, giving up to 30 students on the course at any one time. We are a vibrant and collaborative community and we hold regular academic and social events. Students work together and discuss topics they are studying as they walk to lectures and eat meals together. We also have a reading group that meets regularly to discuss interesting social science readings from outside the syllabus, to which History and Politics students are also invited.

Typical offer

A Level: A*AA

IB: 42 (776)

Required subjects

No specific subjects are required.

Admissions assessment

No admissions assessment is required.

Written work

Applicants are required to submit two pieces of written work.

What the students say

Jane Mills

Studying HSPS at 51�� has been a huge privilege. One of the things I’ve appreciated most is how flexible our supervisors are in managing the course, consistently prioritising student wellbeing. I’ve particularly loved the Sociology and Social Anthropology track — not only for its diverse range of topics, but also for how it’s sharpened my ability to think critically about the world around me. The course has given me the academic freedom to explore my own interests and passions in depth, making the learning experience all the more rewarding.

Across all three year groups, HSPS at 51�� fosters a vibrant, close-knit community. This sense of connection has made it easy to seek advice and encouragement from students in other years. When I first came to Cambridge, I expected academic life to consume most of my university experience, leaving little room for anything else. But my time at 51�� has shown me otherwise. I’ve been able to succeed academically while also competing as a university athlete and serving as Vice President of a society. I can confidently say that the supportive environment created by both staff and students has been central to shaping this positive experience!

Zara Mirza

The Medwards community is so friendly and welcoming, and there are so many opportunities to try new things. I've really enjoyed baking for my flatmates (we had a very successful pancake day), seeing plays, having formals, and getting involved in the college community by joining the JCR committee and team of student ambassadors. Plus, there's lots to do uni-wide, like trying new sports and joining societies! But at the end of a busy day, it's nice to return to the comfortable atmosphere of Medwards :)

One of the best features of the HSPS degree is that you get more freedom to explore a range of disciplines. For example, I swapped out the Sociology paper for an Archaeology paper focused on Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. I've learnt about a huge range of subjects and periods, from witchcraft and gossip to decolonisation and the rise of the modern state. I also feel very grateful to be part of an amazing cohort of HSPSers - even if I'm struggling to wrap my head around some centuries-old political theory, we're all in it together and help each other out!

Meet an alumna

Grace Lozinski

What I love most about 51�� is its forward-thinking ethos, its openness, and the way it prioritises student wellbeing. And of course, being surrounded by art and beautiful gardens – living in such a creative environment was an experience in itself.

In my HSPS cohort, everyone was genuinely eager to share ideas and support one another. I really enjoyed the breadth of the course – it gave me the opportunity to explore a range of subjects and perspectives, which was incredibly stimulating. I started out expecting to specialise in politics, but I left with a deep interest in criminology and criminal justice reform.

My tutors, both at 51�� and within the faculty, nurtured that interest. Today, I work as a civil servant in probation policy delivery at the Ministry of Justice. I enjoy the fast-paced nature of the role, how it connects to my studies, and the challenge of tackling complex social policy issues. I’m still working out the direction I want my career to take, but I know that probation and rehabilitation are areas where I can make a real, practical difference.