Why social science?
Social science explores social reality and the public issues that shape today’s world. Social science majors examine local, national, and international issues with an understanding of the global context in which they occur. Students interested in questions of inequality and social justice, cultural diversity, societal influences and social identities, political advocacy, social movements, and globalization should consider majors in the Social Science Department at Metro State University.
Interdisciplinary department
The Social Science Department faculty are trained as anthropologists, geographers, political scientists, and sociologists, and the courses we offer reflect the perspectives of each field. Our department is unique, however, in offering a strong foundation in interdisciplinary social science research methods in our core course sequence. Our interdisciplinary emphasis brings multiple perspectives to the study of social questions. We offer six majors in our department, enabling students to pursue a major that meets their individual needs and interests.
Skills students develop
Students in the program engage in a rigorous process of academic inquiry and develop tools to explore, analyze, and ultimately act on the social environment. Our program is committed to offering high-quality academic education, while providing opportunities for students to integrate their skills into community-based experience. The department helps students identify internships, explore civic and career interests, and build professional relationships.
Opportunities for graduates
Our graduates have a well-developed skill set that leads them to become strong, competitive candidates for a variety of professions such as international affairs, politics, legal studies, public policy, advocacy, and social services in public and nonprofit institutions.
Employers, as well as graduate and professional schools, seek candidates who have a deep and broad educational basis as well as the specific skills our students develop in our majors: effective oral and written communication; critical and creative approaches to problem solving; a deep understanding of the value of cultural diversity; and a global perspective.
Faculty
Department faculty are award-winning educators, committed to the intellectual, professional, and civic development of their students. Dedicated teachers and mentors, the faculty bring both their academic training and professional experiences from activities outside the university into their teaching. Outside the classroom, the social science faculty are dedicated to using their training to address social problems. They frequently apply their expertise to solving community problems by working with community organizations and campaigns. They also seek to engage in community discourse and education through writing for print and online media, making appearances on public radio, and leading public trainings in the community.