Subject analyses
Introduction
This section of the SHAPE Observatory brings together insights to help educators, researchers and other members of the higher education community explore how individual SHAPE subjects are developing within the UK education system.
It includes our flagship State of the Discipline reports – our deep dives into individual subjects – and evidence about the health of language learning in the UK.
About the SHAPE Observatory
Designed for policymakers, higher education, research and business sector leaders, education professionals, subject specialists, and academics, the SHAPE Observatory provides evidence and insights into the health of SHAPE (Social Sciences, Humanities and Arts for People and the Economy) disciplines.
By highlighting trends and challenges, it helps inform policy, strengthen decision-making and demonstrate how the SHAPE disciplines nurture valuable skills, sustain major growth sectors in the UK economy and help us better understand the world we live in.
State of the Discipline reports
Politics and International Relations provision in UK higher education (2025)
This report provides insight into the health of the Politics and International Relations disciplines over the last decade.
Media, Screen, Journalism and Communication Studies provision in UK higher education (2024)
This report explores a dynamic field, examining trends in student numbers, academic staff, research and graduate outcomes.
English Studies provision in UK higher education (2023)
This report provides an evidence base to holistically explore the health of English Studies in UK higher education.
Languages health and provision
Languages provision in UK further education (2023)
This report looks at the extent of the provision and uptake of languages (other than English and Welsh) in the FE sector in the UK.
Languages learning in higher education: granular trends (2022)
Analysis of UCAS data on undergraduate courses in the UK, 2012-2021.
