I'm so glad you're here - or that you're thinking of joining us.
My name is Umesh Sharma and I have the privilege of being part of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Nottingham Ningbo China. Every day, I am inspired by the energy, curiosity, and ambition of our students - and I want to share with you why I believe FHSS is such a special place.
Whether you're about to attend your very first lecture or you're already deep into your dissertation, I want you to know: this is your home, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
We Are a Global Family - and I'm Proud to Be Part of It
When I walk through our doors, I feel it immediately - a buzz of energy, a mix of languages, and a genuine sense of belonging. That feeling never gets old. I am proud to lead a Faculty that brings together 4 Schools and 1 Language Centre, offering 9 undergraduate and 12 postgraduate taught programmes. But for me, it's never just about the numbers. It's about the people who make up our community:
- 3,000 students from over 42 countries and regions
- 110 professional academics from more than 22 nationalities
When you study with us, you don't just learn about the world - you experience it, every single day. I see it happen in our classrooms, over coffee, and during those late-night study sessions. You'll meet people who see the world differently - and that will change how you see it too.
To our current students: I see you. I hear you. And I am constantly listening, learning, and working to improve - because your experience matters to me more than you know.
I Believe in Teaching With Passion and Researching With Purpose
I take our teaching seriously - but I also believe it should be inspiring.
98.4% of our students recommend our expert teaching staff, and I couldn't be prouder of that. Our social science research ranks among the global top 0.38% in ESI rankings.
Our academics bring real-world experience, interdisciplinary thinking, and a genuine care for your growth. I don't want you to just pass exams - I want you to ask bigger questions, think more deeply, and find your own voice.
And to those of you already with us: I hope you feel my commitment - and my team's commitment - in every lecture, every seminar, and every conversation. Keep challenging us. Keep challenging yourselves. That's how we all grow.
I Believe in Your Future - and I'm Here to Help You Build It
Our graduates go on to incredible things. Over 92% of our undergraduates continue to postgraduate study at top global universities, with 84.2% receiving offers from world Top 50 institutions.
But for me, success isn't just about rankings or offers. It's about the people you become along the way. Our students tell us that studying here helps them:
- See the world more clearly
- Build real confidence and capability
- Develop an open heart and a resilient mind
These are the gifts that will stay with you for life - whether you're a first-year student finding your feet or a final-year student preparing to spread your wings.
To our current students: I am so proud of how far you've come. And I can't wait to see where you go next.
I'm on This Journey With You
Whether you're just discovering FHSS or you've been with us for years, I want you to feel seen, supported, and inspired. This isn't just a place to study - it's a place to grow, connect, and become more fully yourself.
So welcome - or welcome back.
I'm thrilled to have you with us.
Let's learn, explore, and build something meaningful - together.