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The University of Southampton
Social Statistics and DemographyPart of Economic, Social & Political Science

Research

The Department of Social Statistics and Demography is a hub for understanding population change and the world around us. We aim to produce influential and innovative research that informs social policy and practice. We are known for the expertise and international scope of our researchers and for the application of cutting-edge quantitative and qualitative methods.

We host the largest group of demographers in the UK, studying topics such as family and fertility; migration and mobility; and health and mortality. Our statisticians specialise in innovations in statistical methodology, including small-area estimation; online survey methodology; population projections; and innovations in official statistics. Our interdisciplinary perspective covers a range of real-world challenges that impact everyday lives.

We work with academics from across the University and the UK, and collaborate with researchers around the world. Much of our work has global impact, aiding our partners in the development of policy worldwide.

Methodological innovations

Innovation in Surveys & Official Statistics

Our department is an international leader in survey methodology and the use of administrative data.  We have long-term links to the Office of National Statistics and Statistical Offices around the world.

Family and Social Demography

Family and Social Demography

Our demographers use quantitative and qualitative methods to study social processes and family change around the world. We specialise in research on volunteering, partnership, fertility, health and well-being.

Innovation in quantitative demographic research

Innovation in quantitative demographic research

Our department is a hub for statistical and computational demography, focusing on fertility, mortality, and migration. Our population estimation is policy oriented and informs national and international agencies.

Global Health

Global Health

We analyse datasets to inform policy focusing on the health of the most vulnerable. We have expertise in reproductive health; maternal, child and adolescent health; HIV/AIDS; disability; and health systems.

Endorsed for our research

Research across Social Statistics and Demography is consistently ranked in the top tier of Social Policy and Statistics Departments.  

Our Research Impact

The department of Social Statistics and Demography creates widespread impact by engaging with policy-makers, non-governmental organisations, and governments worldwide.

Who we are

Our department includes Social Statisticians and Demographers who come from a variety of interdisciplinary backgrounds.

Doctoral Research Opportunities

We welcome PhD students from a range of backgrounds and provide funding through the South Coast Doctoral Training Programme (DTP).

Our research impact

One of the UK's top research Universities, we were rated 11th for the volume of the high quality research. Click here to find out more

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