What motivates people to behave the way they do? The systematic study of contemporary social life and culture helps us to better understand the causes and consequences of human behaviour as situated within their societal context. Contemporary Society explores socio‑cultural differences and similarities in a globalised world to discover how human interaction with organisations, economies, technologies, the built environment, media and religion influence our daily lives. At ANU, this encompasses Demography, Criminology, Social Research, and Sociology. Students are able to learn about these fields from renowned scholars and industry professionals, many of whom cross these two realms in their daily practice.

Demography analyses the underlying structure of populations and how they change throughout time and space. Criminology focuses on crime, deviancy, policing and punishment, including definitions and representations of crime, addictive behaviours, victimisation, policing, the criminal justice system, transnational crime and restorative justice. Social Research explores a range of research methodologies and techniques which inform current debates in international relations, political science, sociology and criminology. Sociology analyses the processes that structure and transform social relations and how these are expressed at both the macro and micro level. It explores how identities and societies are formed by virtue of activity occurring in different social contexts.

Check the Centre for Social Research & Methods website for more information on the faculty, research, projects, latest news, upcoming events and more.

Check the School of Demography website for more information on the faculty, research, projects, latest news, upcoming events and more.

Check the School of Sociology website for more information on the faculty, research, projects, latest news, upcoming events and more.

*QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025

^Times Higher Education - Global University Employability Ranking 2025