Division of Social Sciences
The Social Sciences tend to focus on the systematic and objective study of human behavior in social situations (Sociology); in individuals (Psychology); in the development of children and early learning (Early Childhood Education); in the political setting (Political Science); in resource allocation decision-making (Economics); and in the context of physical, social, and cultural development (Anthropology). Each field has important contributions to make in seeking solutions to complex social problems. Social Sciences students may concentrate in Anthropology, Early Childhood Education, Economics, Political Science, Psychology, or Sociology.
Social Sciences Basic and Skills Requirements:
Students majoring in the Social Sciences must take a minimum of nine credits in Basic and Skills courses. Basic courses are designed to introduce the student to the concepts guiding the evolution of the Social Sciences and recent developments which are likely to determine future directions. Students are encouraged to develop competence in the areas of research and methods analysis, statistics and report writing. Courses which emphasize the skills associated with the Social Sciences offer the student the opportunity to improve skills in areas such as communications, statistical analysis, utilizing the computer effectively, and critical thinking.
Students are required to complete the Writing Assessment Examination (WAE) with a score of E (exempt). Students receiving a score of N (not exempt) are required to complete HUM 310 Writing Skills with a passing grade. Students must complete a minimum of nine credits of upper-division Writing-Intensive (WI) courses, including SSCI 486 Senior Project or SSCI 490 Social Sciences Practicum. A minimum of six WI credits must come from course work other than SSCI 486 or 490.