WCSU Undergraduate Catalog 2023-2024 : Macricostas School of Arts & Sciences

Social Sciences

Carina Bandhauer, Chair 
bandhauerc@wcsu.edu
Warner Hall 207, Midtown campus
(203) 837-8650
(203) 837-8905 (fax)

Christine Hegel-Cantarella, Associate Chair (fall 2023)
hegelcantarellac@wcsu.edu 
Warner Hall 217, Midtown campus 
(203) 837-3914

Howell Williams, Associate Chair (spring 2024)
williamsh@wcsu.edu
Warner Hall 211, Midtown Campus
(203)837-9335

Patricia Lerner, Department Secretary
lernerp@wcsu.edu
Warner Hall 224, Midtown Campus
(203) 837-8484
(203) 837-8905 (fax)

 

Faculty by major program focus:

Anthropology & Sociology
C. Bandhauer, Chair
C. Hegel-Cantarella, Assoc. Chair
M. Misra
R. Whittemore

Geography
TBA

Political Science
J. Schofield
H.H. Williams (Assoc Chair Spring 2024)

 

Adjunct Faculty

D. DeLong R. Manes, Emeritus L. Huber
A. Knox V. Dumitrascu E. Metzner
A. Mukherjee   A. Mukherjee   F. Schneiderman 
M. Sperrazza   M. Santoro M. Tepepa Covarrubias
 L. Weinstein, Emeritus  J. TelRav  

 

Overview

Social Sciences has a special responsibility to prepare students for the ever-changing demands of contemporary society.  The department provides disciplinary and methodological instruction and practice in the social sciences. To this end, courses are offered in anthropology, geography, political science, sociology and social sciences research methodology. The department awards the B.A. degree in four programs: 1) anthropology and sociology; 2) political science; and 3) interdisciplinary social sciences with options in Global Studies or Social Justice & Policy.* 

This curricular effort is supported by the department’s Connecticut Futures Lab which houses the a variety of research and professionalization opportunities for students, the Social Justice Institute and our archaeology laboratory. The department’s role in the Undocumented student services via the UndocuAlly Task Force, the Racial Justice Coalition, and the Jane Goodall Institute generates opportunities for students to become academically involved in practical and meaningful ways. Additionally, the department has cooperative departmental cross-listing of some courses and exchange of faculty instruction with several university departments such as communication, art, economics, education, environmental sciences, history and world perspectives, management (public administration), social work, and the Kathwari Honors Program. 

 The department sponsors a campus chapters of the Political Science Honor Society, Pi Sigma Alpha and the International Honor Society in the Social Sciences, Pi Gamma Mu. Membership in these honors societies gives recognition to scholastic achievement, thereby enhancing employer and graduate admissions consideration. The campus chapters also provide the opportunity for members to contribute their talent for the benefit of the university and general community. Obtain details from the department chairperson. 

 The department also sponsors the Social Sciences Journal, which publishes original research written by students. Students are invited to contribute their essays or research papers for review. Two student editors and one faculty choose and edit the best examples of student work for publication. 

 

Mission

The three programs within the social sciences at WCSU provide students with a holistic understanding and critical appreciation of the cultural, political, social, and economic elements of society. The department curriculum presents a broad-based foundation in the social sciences while offering a rich and diverse range of degree programs and options.

B.A.: ANTHROPOLOGY/SOCIOLOGY

The allied fields of anthropology and sociology focus on the study of social relations, transformations, and problems at local, national and global scales. Anthropology/Sociology majors cultivate critical insights and cross-cultural perspectives that are of growing importance in an interconnected world facing many human-made challenges. With rigorous training in qualitative and quantitative research and analysis, the Anthropology/Sociology program provides excellent preparation for careers in social service and social justice work, education, public health, government, and business.

B.A.: POLITICAL SCIENCE

Students of political science are given an opportunity to develop a critical understanding of the political aspects of society. They are provided with a practical background for a variety of legal, government, public and social service careers, and a preparation for graduate studies in political science, as well as in related fields, such as pre-law.

B.A.: SOCIAL SCIENCES

With the BA in Social Sciences students choose from two options: Global Studies, or Social Justice and PolicyEach option offers a flexible and unique interdisciplinary opportunity where students benefit from the combined expertise of anthropologists, economists, geographers, political scientists, and sociologists in the Department of Social SciencesBoth options ground students in a skill set of scientific research methods.  The interdisciplinary approach affords students socio-cultural literacy, and a global perspective, both of which equip students to thrive in diverse communities locally and internationally.  With the Global Studies option, students explore both the interconnectedness of our world as well as social issues in nearly every geographic region of the globe including Africa, East Asia, South Asia, Latin American and the Caribbean, the Middle East, and the United States.  With the Social Justice and Policy option, students explore and assess topical issues that grapple with inequities and injustices, and then learn to develop and implement effective policy.  

*Pending Title IV approval, beginning in fall 2024, the options of Global Studies and Social Justice & Policy will be re-homed within the Anthropology/Sociology major.  Students who enter as a Social Sciences major may maintain their major as they entered the university, or may choose to take advantage of additional opportunities within the re-homed major.  If you have questions, please inquire with the department chair or any faculty member in anthropology, political science, or sociology.

 

Learning Outcomes

At the completion of their studies, Social Science majors will demonstrate:

  1. Mastery of or proficiency in the theories and concepts of their field in the social sciences.
  2. Mastery of or proficiency in the research methodologies of the social sciences.
  3. Mastery of or proficiency in the application of their skills/ behaviors in the social sciences.
  4. Mastery of or proficiency in information technology and literacy.

 

Degree Programs in Social Sciences

Degree and minor programs require a minimum GPA of 2.0. All department majors are required to earn at least a “C” (2.0) minimum grade in any foundation course (100 level or as specified and required in the student’s major program) and in the three required methods courses: SS 201, SS 300 and SS 400. Students should contact the department chair in order to sign up for their required research seminar, SS 400, one semester prior to registration.

An electronically submitted portfolio of work in the social sciences is required of all students during the final semester before graduation. Four elements of the portfolio include:

1) Two “Course of Study” statements.

  1. a) A written discussion of the student’s course of study, including courses contributing to scholarly development, steps taken to meet challenges in that development, and future plans based on the course of study;
  2. b) A proposal of a significant question or line of inquiry of importance to the student in the major and an account of having arrived at that question or inquiry. Included will be a discussion of several research sources of bearing on the student’s question or inquiry, and a critical response to the inquiry’s assumptions or a proposal for a methodology that answering the question would require.

2) A research paper (previously submitted in a major course).

3) A senior thesis (previously submitted in SS 400: Senior Thesis Research Seminar).

4) A professional résumé and sample cover letter. 

Details of the below listed programs are presented on the next several pages.

Bachelor of Arts
Anthropology/Sociology
Political Science
Social Sciences:  Students should choose one of the below options.
Social Sciences: Global Studies
Social Sciences: Social Justice and Policy

Minor Programs
Anthropology
Conflict Resolution
Cultural Resource Management
Geography
International Studies
Multi-cultural Studies (with elective African-American focus)
Political Science
Sociology
Urban Studies
Women’s Studies

 


Bachelor of Arts Anthropology/Sociology (B.A.)

Description: The allied fields of anthropology and sociology focus on the study of social relations, transformations, and problems at local, national, and global scales. Anthropology/Sociology majors cultivate critical insights and cross-cultural perspectives that are of growing importance in an interconnected world facing many challenges. With rigorous training in and qualitative and quantitative research and analysis, the Anthropology/Sociology program provides excellent preparation for careers in social service and social justice work, education, public health, government, and business.  

Degree Requirements
All degrees at WCSU require 120 semester hours (SH).  This includes major requirements, general education requirements, cognates (where applicable), and free electives. This structure provides room for minors, internships, and study abroad.   

Required Courses in the Major: 42 SH.   

ANT 100 Intro to Cultural Anthropology (IC)  3 SH 
ANT 110 Intro to Physical Anthropology OR ANT 104 Intro to Archaeology (CT, IC)  3 SH 
SOC 100 Intro to Sociology (CT, IC) or SOC 120 (CT, W2) 3 SH 
SOC 101 Social Problems (IL) 3 SH 
ANT/SOC 330 Social and Cultural Theory (W2) 3 SH 
SS 201 Researching Social Issues  3 SH 
SS 300 Quantitative Research Methods in the Social Sciences (QR)  3 SH 
SS 400 Senior Research Thesis (Students must contact Department advisor one semester prior to registering for this course).  (CE, W3)  3 SH 
Required Major Electives: Eighteen (18) semester hours/Six (6) courses in two tiers. 
Tier 1: Three 200-400 level courses in ANT and/or SOC  9 SH 
Tier 2: Three 300-400 level courses in ANT and/or SOC  9 SH 
Minimum Grade of C required for all courses in the Major. 
Minimum GPA for the BA in Anthropology/Sociology = 2.0. 


General Education
: All students must complete the General Education curriculum. General Education Requirements include both competency and breadth requirements. In some cases, major courses will satisfy competencies. These are indicated in the parentheses after the course title. For a complete description of the General Education program, follow this link. https://catalogs.wcsu.edu/ugrad/academic-programs-degrees/ 

Cognates: In some programs there are courses outside of the major that are required as pre-requisites or enhancements to the major course work. These courses may satisfy competencies and they will count toward the general education breadth requirement. If cognate courses are required, they are included in the list of courses required in the major.  

Electives: All degrees require 120 semester hours.  Elective credits are opportunities for minors, internships, study abroad, and just following general interests. We encourage all students to speak with their advisors about great opportunities for their elective courses.  


Sample Four Year Plan: BA Anthropology/Sociology

Four-year plans are suggestions. Plans change. Consult your advisor to adjust your plan.  

Semester 1  SH  Semester 2  SH 
ANT 100 Intro to Cultural Anthropology (IC)  3  SOC 100 Intro to Sociology (CT, IC, Rpt. 1) or SOC 120 (CT, W2) 3 
First Year Navigation (FY)  1-3  Gen Ed: Information Literacy (IL)  3 
PSY 100 Intro to Psych
OR ANT/SOC 204 Culture and Personality
3  Gen Ed: Writing Tier 2 (W2)  3 
MAT 100 Intermediate Math OR Gen Ed: Quantitative Reasoning (QR) 3-4  Gen Ed: Quantitative Reasoning (QR) OR Gen Ed: Breadth Elective  3 
World Language (IC)*  3  World Language (IC)  3 
WP course (100 level)
OR GEO course (100-400 level) – only if FY is 1 SH
3     
       
Semester 3  SH  Semester 4  SH 
ANT 110 Physical Anthropology OR ANT 104 Intro to Archaeology (CT/IC)   3  SOC 101 Social Problems  

OR ANT/SOC Elective Tier 1 

3 
ANT/SOC Elective Tier 1  

OR SOC 101 Social Problems  

3  SS 201 Research Social Issues 

OR ANT/SOC Elective Tier 1 

3 
Gen Ed: Scientific Inquiry (SI)  4  Gen Ed: Oral Communication (OC)  3 
Gen Ed: Creative Process (CP)  3  Gen Ed: Health and Wellness (HW)  2-3 
Gen Ed: Critical Thinking (CT, Rpt. 2)  3  Gen Ed: Breadth Elective  3 
       
Semester 5  SH  Semester 6  SH 
SS 201 Research Social Issues OR ANT/SOC 330 Social & Cultural Theory (W2) 3  SS 300 Quant. Research Methods (QR, Rpt. 3) OR Free Elective  3 
ANT SOC Elective Tier 1 or Tier 2  3  ANT SOC Elective Tier 1 or Tier 2  3 
ANT SOC Elective Tier 1 or Tier 2  3  ANT SOC Elective Tier 1 or Tier 2  3 
Gen Ed: Breadth or Free Elective  3  Gen Ed: Breadth 3 
Free Elective  3  Free Elective  3 
       
Semester 7    Semester 8   
ANT/SOC 330 Social & Cultural Theory OR SS 300 Quant. Research Methods (QR, Rpt. 3)   3  SS 400 Senior Thesis Research Seminar (CE, W3) (advisor approval required.)  3 
ANT/SOC Elective Tier 2  3  ANT/SOC Elective Tier 2  3 
ANT/SOC Elective Tier 2 OR Free Elective  3  Free Electives  9 
Free Electives  6  Free Elective  3 
Minimum C or better for all courses required for the Major. 

Complete study of World Language at an elementary II level or above.

Total Credits Required for the BA in Anthropology Sociology = 120; Minimum GPA 2.0. 

*Students who have completed three years of language in high school with at least a ‘C’ average have satisfied this requirement. Consult your advisor.

 


Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (B.A.)

Description: Students of political science are given an opportunity to develop a critical understanding of the political aspects of society. They are provided with a practical background for a variety of legal, government, public and social service careers, and a preparation for graduate studies in political science, as well as in related fields, such as pre-law.  

Degree Requirements  

All degrees at WCSU require 120 semester hours (SH).  This includes major requirements, general education requirements, cognates (where applicable), and free electives. This structure provides room for minors, internships, and study abroad.   

Required Courses in the Major: 39 semester hours (SH).  

PS 102 American Government  3 SH 
PS 104 World Governments  3 SH 
PS 200 International Relations or PS 201 Political Theory  3 SH 
SS 201 Researching Social Issues  3 SH 
SS 300 Quantitative Research Methods in the Social Sciences (QR)  3 SH 
SS 400 Senior Research Thesis (Students must contact department advisor one semester prior to registering for this course).  (CE, W3)  3 SH 
Social Science Breadth: Select any two approved courses from ANT, ECO, GEO, HIS, or SOC (Contact your advisor for a list of approved courses.)  6 SH 
Major Electives: Select any five approved political science courses. (Contact your advisor for a list of approved courses.)  15 SH 
Students must earn a C (2.0) or better in all foundation courses (100 levels) and in SS 201, SS 330, and SS 400.  
You must earn a C or better in all courses in the major. 
Minimum GPA for the BA in Political Science = 2.0. 


General Education
: All students must complete the General Education curriculum. General Education Requirements include both competency and breadth requirements. In some cases, major courses will satisfy competencies. These are indicated in the parentheses after the course title. For a complete description of the General Education program, follow this link. https://catalogs.wcsu.edu/ugrad/academic-programs-degrees/ 

Cognates: In some programs there are courses outside of the major that are required as pre-requisites or enhancements to the major course work. These courses may satisfy competencies and they will count toward the breadth requirement. Where applicable, cognates are indicated in the list of courses required in the major.  

Electives: All degrees require 120 semester hours.  Elective credits are opportunities for minors, internships, study abroad, and just following general interests. We encourage all students to speak with their advisors about great opportunities for their elective courses.  


Sample Four Year Plan: BA Political Science

Four-year plans are suggestions. Plans change. Consult your advisor to adjust your plan.  

Semester 1  SH  Semester 2  SH 
PS 102 American Government (CT)  3  PS 104 World Governments (IC)  3 
First Year Navigation (FY)  1-3  Social Science Breadth 1  3 
WRT 101 Composition I  3  Gen Ed: Writing Tier 2 (W2)  3 
MAT 100 Intermediate Math OR Gen Ed: Quantitative Reasoning (QR)  3-4  Gen Ed: Quantitative Reasoning (QR) OR Gen Ed: Breadth Elective  3 
Foreign Language (IC)*  3  Foreign Language (IC, RPT 1)  3 
Free Elective (Only if FY is 1 SH)  3     
       
Semester 3  SH  Semester 4  SH 
PS 200 International Relations  OR PS 201 Political Theory (CT) OR Social Science Breadth 2  3  PS 200 International Relations OR PS 201 Political Theory OR Social Science Breadth 2  3 
SS 201 Research Social Issues  3  Gen Ed: Breadth 3 
Gen Ed: Scientific Inquiry (SI)  4  Gen Ed: Oral Communication (OC)  3 
Gen Ed: Creative Process (CP)  3  Gen Ed: Health and Wellness (HW)  2-3 
Gen Ed: RPT Competency 2 OR Gen Ed: Breadth Elective  3  Gen Ed: Breadth  3 
       
Semester 5  SH  Semester 6  SH 
SS 300 Quant. Research Methods in the Social Sciences (QR, RPT3)  

OR Free Elective 

3  SS 300 Quant. Research Methods in the Social Sciences (QR, RPT3)  

OR Free Elective 

3 
Major Elective 1  3  Major Elective 3  3 
Major Elective 2  3  Major Elective 4  3 
Free Elective  3  Gen Ed: Breadth or Free Elective  3 
Free Elective  3  Free Elective  3 
       
Semester 7  SH  Semester 8  SH 
SS 400 Senior Thesis Research Seminar (CE, W3) OR Free Elective  3  SS 400 Senior Thesis Research Seminar (CE, W3) OR Free Elective  3 
Major Elective 5  3  Free Electives  12 
Free Electives 9    
You must earn a C or better in all courses in the major. 
Total Credits Required for the BA in Political Science = 120; Minimum GPA 2.0. 

*Students who have completed three years of a foreign language at a C average in high school are not required to complete a foreign language requirement. However, for students in political science, we strongly suggest that you consider exploring an additional foreign language or advancing your skills in the language studied in high school. Intercultural Competency is required. 

Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences: Global Studies option (B.A.)

Description: For a BA in Social Sciences, students must choose from two options: Global Studies or Social Justice and Policy. Each option offers flexible and unique interdisciplinary opportunity where students benefit from the combined expertise of anthropologists, economists, geographers, political scientists, and sociologists in the Department of Social Sciences. Both options ground students in a skill set of scientific research methods. The interdisciplinary approach affords students socio-cultural literacy, and a global perspective, both of which equip students to thrive in diverse communities locally and internationally. With the Global Studies option, students explore both the interconnectedness of our world as well as social issues in nearly every geographic region of the globe.

Degree Requirements
All degrees at WCSU require 120 semester hours (SH).  This includes major requirements, general education requirements, cognates (where applicable), and free electives. This structure provides room for minors, internships, and study abroad.   

Required Courses in the Major: 42 SH

Social Science Foundation – Complete 9 credits (Courses must be taken from 3 disciplines):
SOC 100 (CT, IC) OR SOC 120 (CT, W2)
ANT 100 (IC)
PS 102  (CT) OR 104 (IC)
ECO 207, 208 211, OR 213
GEO 100
9 SH 
In addition, students MUST complete each of the following:
ANT/SOC 330 Social and Cultural Theory (W2) OR PS 201 Political Theory
SS 201 Researching Social Issues
SS 300 Quantitative Research Methods (QR) OR any other ANT/ECO/GEO/PS/SOC/SS course with a QR competency
SS 400 Senior Thesis Research Seminar (CE, W3)
12 SH
Global Studies Electives: Complete 12 Credits (Courses must be taken from 3 or more disciplines): 
ANT/SOC/AAS 212 Peoples & Cultures of Africa, ANT/SOC 216 Anthropology of the Middle East, ANT/SOC 232 Religion & Culture, ANT/WS 321 Gender & Globalization, ANT/SOC 352 Women & Gender in the Middle East, ECO 330 The Globalized Economy in the 21st Century, ECO 400 International Economics, PS 200 International Relations, PS/ECO 251 International Political Economy, PS/GEO 301 American Foreign Policy, PS 309 African Politics, PS 403 International Institutions, PS 405 Women in Global Politics, SOC/ANT/SS 209 Climate Change & Society, SOC 301 Globalization & Migration 12 SH 
Required 200-400 Level Major Electives:
Courses must be taken from ANT, ECO, GEO, PS, SOC, or SS at the 200-400 level.
9 SH 
Minimum Grade of C required for all courses in the Major. 
Cognates 
HIS Elective 3 SH
WP Elective 3 SH
A second HIS or WP Elective 3 SH
PSY 100 Intro to Psychology OR ANT/SOC 204 Culture & Personality 3 SH
Minimum GPA for the BA in Social Sciences = 2.0. 


General Education
: All students must complete the General Education curriculum. General Education Requirements include both competency and breadth requirements. In some cases, major courses will satisfy competencies. These are indicated in the parentheses after the course title. For a complete description of the General Education program, follow this link. https://catalogs.wcsu.edu/ugrad/academic-programs-degrees/ 

Cognates: In some programs there are courses outside of the major that are required as pre-requisites or enhancements to the major course work. These courses may satisfy competencies and they will count toward the breadth requirement. Where applicable, cognates are indicated in the list of courses required in the major.  

Electives: All degrees require 120 semester hours.  Elective credits are opportunities for minors, internships, study abroad, and just following general interests. We encourage all students to speak with their advisors about great opportunities for their elective courses.  


Sample Four Year Plan: BA Social Sciences- Global Studies

Four-year plans are suggestions. Plans change. Consult your advisor to adjust your plan.  

Semester 1  SH  Semester 2  SH 
Social Science Foundation 1 3  Social Science Foundation 2 3 
First Year Navigation (FY)  1 HIS Elective 3 
WRT 101 Composition I (W1) 3  Gen Ed: Writing Tier 2 (W2)  3 
MAT 100 Intermediate Math OR Gen Ed: Quantitative Reasoning (QR) 3 Social Science Foundation 3 3 
Foreign Language (IC)* 3  Foreign Language (IC, Rpt. 1) 3 
Free Elective (Only if FY is 1 SH)  3     
       
Semester 3  SH  Semester 4  SH 
200-400 Level Major Elective 1 3  200-400 Level Major Elective 2 3 
Gen Ed: Health and Wellness (HW)  2  SS 201 Research Social Issues OR Gen Ed: Creative Process (CP) 3 
Gen Ed: Scientific Inquiry (SI)  4  Gen Ed: Oral Communication (OC)  3 
WP Elective 3  HIS Elective OR WP Elective 3 
Gen Ed: Critical Thinking (CT) OR Free Elective 3  PSY 100 Intro to Psych OR ANT/SOC 204 Culture and Personality 3 
       
Semester 5  SH  Semester 6  SH 
SS 201 Research Social Issues OR Gen Ed: Creative Process (CP) 3  SS 300 Quant. Research Methods OR ANT/ECO/GEO/PS/SOC/SS with QR competency (QR, Rpt.3)  3 
Gen Ed: RPT Competency 2 OR Gen Ed: Breadth 3  Global Studies Elective 1  3 
200-400 Level Major Elective 3 3  Global Studies Elective 2  3 
ANT/SOC 330 Social and Cultural Theory OR PS 201 Political Theory 3  Gen Ed: Information Literacy (IL)  3 
Free Elective  3  Free Elective  3 
       
Semester 7  SH  Semester 8  SH 
SS 400 Senior Thesis Research Seminar (CE, W3) OR Free Elective  3  SS 400 Senior Thesis Research Seminar (CE, W3) OR Free Elective  3 
Global Studies Elective 3 3  Free Electives 12
Global Studies Elective 4  3     
Free Electives  6     
   
Minimum C or better for all courses required for the Major. 
Total Credits Required for the BA in Social Sciences = 120; Minimum GPA 2.0. 

*Students who have completed three years of a foreign language at a C average in high school are not required to complete a foreign language requirement. However, for students in social sciences, we strongly suggest that you consider exploring an additional foreign language or advancing your skills in the language studied in high school. Intercultural Competency is required. 

 

Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences: Social Justice and Policy option (B.A.)

Description: For a BA in Social Sciences, students must choose from two options: Global Studies or Social Justice and Policy. Each option offers flexible and unique interdisciplinary opportunity where students benefit from the combined expertise of anthropologists, economists, geographers, political scientists, and sociologists in the Department of Social Sciences. Both options ground students in a skill set of scientific research methods. The interdisciplinary approach affords students socio-cultural literacy, and a global perspective, both of which equip students to thrive in diverse communities locally and internationally. With the Social Justice and Policy option, students explore and assess topical issues that grapple with inequities and injustices, and then learn to develop and implement effective policy.

Degree Requirements
All degrees at WCSU require 120 semester hours (SH).  This includes major requirements, general education requirements, cognates (where applicable), and free electives. This structure provides room for minors, internships, and study abroad.   

Required Courses in the Major: 42 SH

Social Science Foundation – Complete 9 credits (Courses must be taken from 3 disciplines):
SOC 100 (CT, IC) or SOC 120 (CT, W2)
ANT 100 (IC)
PS 102 (CT) OR 104 (IC)
ECO 207, 208 211, OR 213
GEO 100
9 SH 
In addition, students MUST complete each of the following:
ANT/SOC 330 Social and Cultural Theory (W2) OR PS 201 Political Theory
SS 201 Researching Social Issues
SS 300 Quantitative Research Methods (QR) OR any other ANT/ECO/GEO/PS/SOC/SS course with a QR competency
SS 400 Senior Thesis Research Seminar (CE, W3)
12 SH
Social Justice & Policy Electives: Complete 12 Credits (Courses must be taken from 3 or more disciplines): 
SOC 200 Concepts of Race & Racism, SOC 322 Comparative Minority Relations, ANT/SOC 206 Culture and Law, ANT/SOC/SS 209 Climate Change & Society, SOC 210 Urban Sociology, SOC 211 Latinos/as/x in the United States, ANT/SOC 222 Global Rural Cultures, ANT/SOC 233 Medical Anthropology, ANT/SOC/SS 309 Food, Justice & Environment, SOC/PS/ANT 410 Undocumented Migration, ECO 240 Environmental Economics, ECO 306 The Economics of Sports, ECO 308 Labor Economics, ECO 317 Economic Development & Growth, PS 217 The Legislative Process, PS/ECO 251 International Political Economy, PS/SOC 310 Political Sociology, PS/WS 340 Gender, Justice & the State, PS 403 International Institutions 12 SH 
Required 200-400 Level Major Electives:
Courses must be taken from ANT, ECO, GEO, PS, SOC, or SS at the 200-400 level.
9 SH 
Minimum Grade of C required for all courses in the Major. 
Cognates 
HIS Elective 3 SH
WP Elective 3 SH
A second HIS or WP Elective 3 SH
PSY 100 Intro to Psychology OR ANT/SOC 204 Culture & Personality 3 SH
Minimum GPA for the BA in Social Sciences = 2.0. 


General Education
: All students must complete the General Education curriculum. General Education Requirements include both competency and breadth requirements. In some cases, major courses will satisfy competencies. These are indicated in the parentheses after the course title. For a complete description of the General Education program, follow this link. https://catalogs.wcsu.edu/ugrad/academic-programs-degrees/ 

Cognates: In some programs there are courses outside of the major that are required as pre-requisites or enhancements to the major course work. These courses may satisfy competencies and they will count toward the breadth requirement. Where applicable, cognates are indicated in the list of courses required in the major.  

Electives: All degrees require 120 semester hours.  Elective credits are opportunities for minors, internships, study abroad, and just following general interests. We encourage all students to speak with their advisors about great opportunities for their elective courses.  


Sample Four Year Plan: BA Social Sciences- Social Justice and Policy option

Four-year plans are suggestions. Plans change. Consult your advisor to adjust your plan.  

Semester 1  SH  Semester 2  SH 
Social Science Foundation 1 3  Social Science Foundation 2 3 
First Year Navigation (FY)  1 HIS Elective 3 
WRT 101 Composition I (W1) 3  Gen Ed: Writing Tier 2 (W2)  3 
MAT 100 Intermediate Math OR Gen Ed: Quantitative Reasoning (QR) 3 Social Science Foundation 3 3 
Foreign Language (IC)* 3  Foreign Language (IC, Rpt. 1) 3 
Free Elective (Only if FY is 1 SH)  3     
       
Semester 3  SH  Semester 4  SH 
200-400 Level Major Elective 1 3  200-400 Level Major Elective 2 3 
Gen Ed: Health and Wellness (HW)  2  SS 201 Research Social Issues OR Gen Ed: Creative Process (CP) 3 
Gen Ed: Scientific Inquiry (SI)  4  Gen Ed: Oral Communication (OC)  3 
WP Elective 3  HIS Elective OR WP Elective 3 
Gen Ed: Critical Thinking OR Free Elective 3  PSY 100 Intro to Psych OR ANT/SOC 204 Culture and Personality 3 
       
Semester 5  SH  Semester 6  SH 
SS 201 Research Social Issues OR Gen Ed: Creative Process (CP) 3  SS 300 Quant. Research Methods OR ANT/ECO/GEO/PS/SOC/SS with QR competency (QR, Rpt.3) 3 
Gen Ed: RPT Competency 2 OR Gen Ed: Breadth 3  Social Justice & Policy Elective 1  3 
200-400 Level Major Elective 3 3  Social Justice & Policy Elective 2  3 
ANT/SOC 330 Social and Cultural Theory OR PS 201 Political Theory 3  Gen Ed: Information Literacy (IL)  3 
Free Elective  3  Free Elective  3 
       
Semester 7  SH  Semester 8  SH 
SS 400 Senior Thesis Research Seminar (CE, W3) OR Free Elective 3  SS 400 Senior Thesis Research Seminar (CE, W3) OR Free Elective  3 
Social Justice & Policy Elective 3 3  Free Electives 12
Social Justice & Policy Elective 4  3     
Free Electives  6     
   
Minimum C or better for all courses required for the Major. 
Total Credits Required for the BA in Social Sciences = 120; Minimum GPA 2.0. 

*Students who have completed three years of a foreign language at a C average in high school are not required to complete a foreign language requirement. However, for students in social sciences, we strongly suggest that you consider exploring an additional foreign language or advancing your skills in the language studied in high school. Intercultural Competency is required. 

 

Social Sciences Interdisciplinary Minor Programs

Please see your advisor to review all program requirements.

Minor is Anthropology (18 SH)
Faculty Advisor: C. Hegel-Cantarella or R. Whittemore

Six classes (eighteen credit hours) are required. At least 3 courses (9 credit hours) must be taken at WCSU.  No more than 3 courses (9 credit hours) may overlap with another major or minor.

Required Courses: 6 SH
ANT 100 Introduction to Cultural Anthropology
ANT 110 Introduction to Physical Anthropology

Approved Anthropology Electives (all of which must be 200-level or above) 12 SH

Minor in Conflict Resolution (18 SH)
Faculty Advisor: J. Schofield

Six classes (eighteen credit hours) are required. At least 3 courses (9 credit hours) must be taken at WCSU.  No more than 3 courses (9 credit hours) may overlap with another major or minor

To successfully negotiate today’s stressful and competitive environment, people require highly refined communication and conflict resolution skills. This minor program in conflict management allows students to learn about, practice and further develop some key fundamental behaviors designed to establish powerful rapport with others, and to manage conflict creatively and constructively when it occurs. In addition, the knowledge and insights gained in the basic core courses heighten intellectual pursuits in many other disciplines, such as political science, sociology, economics, history, psychology, communication, theater arts, social work, criminal justice and law, and management.

To enroll in this minor program, contact the program advisor listed above. In addition to two required foundation courses, SS 401 and PS 401 or SS 402, your advisor will help you select four additional elective courses from the list below. The program advisor may approve other elective courses if content is deemed relevant to the program. No more than six credit hours should be selected from any one discipline or from the student’s major. The conflict resolution minor program sheet/guide is available from the program advisor.

Required Courses (6 SH):
SS 401 Fundamentals of Conflict Resolution AND
SS 402 Mediation: Theory & Practice OR  PS 401 Global Conflict Resolution

Four (4) Approved Electives (12 SH):
ANT/COM 208 Intercultural Communication
ANT/SOC 322 Comparative Minority Relations
ECO 308 Labor Economics
ECO 321 Urban Economics
PS 200 International Relations
PS 290 Geopolitics in the 20th Century
PS 402 Violent & Nonviolent Conflict Resolution
PS 403 International Institutions
SOC 101 Social Problems
SOC 200 Concepts of Race & Ethnic Relations
SOC 202 Class, Status & Power
SOC 210 Urban Society
SS 299 Student Developed Study
Electives offered by other departments:
COM 210 Nonverbal Communication
COM 212 Effective Listening
COM 362 Organizational Communication
COM 408 Strategies of Persuasion
HIS 256 Background to the Civil War
HIS 382 Contemporary Middle East
JLA 426 Conflict Resolution & Management
MGT 350 Management Negotiations
MGT 376 Managing People
PSY 205 Social Psychology
SW 220 Diversity Equity & Inclusion

Minor is Cultural Resource Management

Required Courses (18 SH)
ANT 104 Intro to Archaeology
ANT 213 North American Indians
ANT 229 Archaeological Field Methods (ANT 100)
ANT 341 Cultural Resource Management
HIS 294 Introduction to Historical Research

Minor in Geography
Faculty Advisor: C. Bandhauer 

Six classes (eighteen credit hours) are required. At least 3 courses (9 credit hours) must be taken at WCSU.  No more than 3 courses (9 credit hours) may overlap with another major or minor.

Specialized knowledge in one world region or country is encouraged.  Emphasizing the interaction between humans and geo-physical environments, this minor explores the fundamental importance of location, place, region and the inter-relationships between differing localities in order to master geographic skills and knowledge.  Experience in spatial analysis skills includes data management, map reading, collation and presentation of geographical information, and related inferential thinking about human and geo-physical relationships. Spatial interactions, including trade, environmental management systems, as well as natural environmental conditions all contribute to a developing knowledge of world regions, countries, cities, and cultures.  Finally, cultural differences, development prospects, and the importance of environmental management and conservation are also considered. 

Required Courses (9 SH):
GEO 100 Principles of World Geography
GEO 215 Geographical Information Systems (offered every spring)
GEO 270 Geography of Environment and Development (offered every spring)

Electives (9 SH): (at least two of which must be at the 200 level or above)
GEO 290 Geopolitics in the Twenty-First Century
GEO 250 USA and Canada: A Regional Study
GEO 252 Latin America: A Regional Study
GEO 253 Russia and Euro-Asia: A Regional Study
ENV/GEO 150 Urban Environment as an Ecological Problem
ES 103 Planet Earth
AAS/GEO 251 Africa: A Regional Study
HIS/AAS 219 African-American History and Culture (contemporary)
WP 103 Chinese Culture
WP 104 Japanese Culture
WP 105 Cultures of India
WP 107 Middle Eastern Culture
WP/AAS 109 Equatorial African Cultures
WP 110 Vietnamese Culture
WP 112 Korean Culture
WP/AAS 113 Southern African Cultures
WP 115 Latin American and Caribbean Civilizations

Other electives with significant geographical components will be considered at the discretion of the faculty advisor.

Minor in International Studies: Interdisciplinary (18 SH)
Faculty Advisor: C. Bandhauer or R. Whittemore

Six classes (eighteen credit hours) are required. At least 3 courses (9 credit hours) must be taken at WCSU.  No more than 3 courses (9 credit hours) may overlap with another major or minor.

The object of the international studies minor is to encourage students to adopt a more expansive view of the world around them.

As a world power the United States continues to be more and more involved in the political, economic and cultural affairs of many countries. Our own security is dependent to an important degree on our relations with other countries, large and small. Many American jobs are dependent on overseas markets. Our well-being, therefore, depends on the understanding of foreign peoples, their histories and cultures. Giving our students some recognition in the form of an international studies minor may very well assist them in their career goals no matter what their majors happen to be.

To fulfill the requirements of the international studies minor the student must:

  1. Satisfactorily complete four 200-level or above courses, the content of which are substantially international in nature (12 SH). The faculty advisor will have a list of the appropriate courses. These four courses must be selected from at least two of the following six interdisciplinary categories: 
  2. ANT/SOC/SS
    2. ED/HED
    3. ECO/FIN/MKT
    4. FR/SPA
    5. ENG/COM/PHI
    6. GEO/HIS/PS
  3. Satisfactorily complete two 100-level courses which examine cultures other than European or American (WP) designations) (6 SH).

Minor in Multi-cultural Studies (with elective African-American Focus) (18 SH)
Faculty Advisor: C. Bandauer or R. Whittemore

Six classes (eighteen credit hours) are required. At least 3 courses (9 credit hours) must be taken at WCSU.  No more than 3 courses (9 credit hours) may overlap with another major or minor.

In addition to the required course, SOC 200 Concepts of Race and Racism, courses may include those listed for the Multi-cultural Studies Option in Social Sciences as well as any course from any other discipline (100-400 level), provided (a) the student requests and receives approval from the Minor Faculty Advisor and (b) the university catalog course descriptions of those alternative courses indicate substantial ethnic, minority and cultural diversity subject coverage.

Required Course (3 SH):
SOC 200 Concepts of Race and Racism

Multicultural Studies Option: Must choose 1 course from each of the following categories (12 SH):
1. ANT/COM 208 Intercultural Communication OR ANT/SOC 322 Comparative Minority Relations OR ANT/SOC 340 Culture Change & Planning
2. ANT/SOC 350 Modern & Post Modern Societies OR PS/COM 310 Political Sociology OR SOC 202 Class, Status & Power
3. ANT/SOC 221 Human Family Systems OR SOC 225 Alt. to Traditional American Families OR SW 220 Diversity Equity & Inclusion
4. Any AAS (200-level) OR AAS/ANT 212 Peoples and Cultures of Africa; ANT 213 North American Indians; ANT 214 Pacific; ANT 298 Faculty Developed Study

Additional Multicultural Studies Option: Must choose 1 course from the following (3 SH):
SOC 211 Latinos/as/x in United States
ANT/SOC/AAS 212 Peoples & Cultures of Africa
ANT 213 North American Indians
ANT 214 Peoples & Cultures of the Pacific
ANT 215 Peoples & Cultures of Asia
ANT/SOC 216 Anthropology of the Middle East
ANT/WS 236 Culture, Sex and Gender
SOC 301 Globalization and Migration
ANT/WS 314 Native Peoples of the Southwest: Women, Spirituality & Power
SOC/ANT 318 Third World and Development
ANT/WS 321 Gender & Globalization
ANT/351 Transnational Feminisms
ANT/SOC/WS 352 Women & Gender in the Middle East

African American focus:
Requires at least 12 SH in African-American studies (AAS) courses.

If at least 12 semester hours are in African-American studies (AAS) courses (100-400 level), the student’s transcript shall read: minor in multi-cultural studies: African-American focus.

Minor in Political Science 18 SH

Required Courses 6 SH
PS 102 American Government
PS 104 World Governments

4 (four) Approved Political Science Electives (must be 200-level of above) 12 SH

 

Minor in Sociology 18 SH
Faculty Advisor: C. Bandhauer or M. Misra

Required Courses (6 SH)
SOC 100 Introduction to Sociology or SOC 120 (CT, W2)
SOC 101 Social Problems

4 (four) Approved Sociology Electives (all of which must be 200-level or above) 12 SH

In total, six classes (eighteen credit hours) are required. At least 3 courses (9 credit hours) must be taken at WCSU.  No more than 3 courses (9 credit hours) may overlap with another major or minor

Minor in Urban Studies
Faculty Advisor: C. Bandhauer or C. Hegel-Cantarella

The urban studies minor is an interdisciplinary program focusing on urban issues, concepts, and problems. The minor affords students the opportunity to explore urban concerns through a variety of disciplinary lenses and the chance to examine practical solutions to urban problems. The minor also prepares students for increased employment possibilities at the municipal, state, or federal level, or for graduate work in one of several areas related to urban studies (e.g., urban studies, urban, town, or regional planning, urban geography, demography, etc.).

Students select 18 semester hours from the courses listed below; no more than nine hours should be from 100-level courses and no more than six hours should be selected from any one discipline or from the student’s major. Students are strongly encouraged to apply 3-6 semester hours earned in an approved cooperative education internship to this program.

ANT 350 Modern & Postmodern Societies
ART 101 History and Appreciation of Western Art: Renaissance to the Present
ECO 211 Principles of Macroeconomics or ECO 107 Contemporary Domestic Economic Issues
ECO 321 Urban Economics
GEO/ENV 150 Urban Environment as a Human Ecological Problem
HIS 201 Immigrant NYC
HIS 208 Rise of Industrialism in America
HIS 363 The American City
HIS 368 New York City: History and Culture
HIS X99 Student Independent Study
PS 218 American State & Local Government
SS/CED 297 Coop Internship
SOC 101 Social Problems
SOC 210 Urban Sociology

Any appropriate substitute course must have prior department approval.

Minor in Women’s Studies (WS)
Faculty Advisor: C. Hegel-Cantarella

Six classes (eighteen credit hours) are required. At least 3 courses (9 credit hours) must be taken at WCSU.  No more than 3 courses (9 credit hours) may overlap with another major or minor.

The women’s studies minor is an interdisciplinary and interdepartmental program that provide the opportunity for students to increase their awareness and knowledge about women’s achievements and contributions to society, and about social concerns and issues that are of particular importance to women and to all minority groups.

The 18 credits in the minor shall consist of electives with a WS label or courses with a discipline label which are identified as relevant by a committee drawn from participating departments. Students should contact their faculty advisor for a list of recommended electives.

WS 200 Introduction to Women’s Studies
WS/ANT 236 Culture, Sex and Gender
WS/ANT 314 Native Peoples of the Southwest: Women, Spirituality and Power
WS/COM 211 Women, Language and Communication
WS/COM 444 Women and the Media in the U.S.
WS/ECO 327 Economics of Gender
WS/ENG 334 Women Writers
WS/HIS 320 Women and Leadership
WS/JLA 301 Women and Criminal Justice
WS/NUR 250 Women’s Health Issues
WS/PSY 217 Psychology of Women

Recommended cognate elective courses for Women’s Studies
SOC 221 Human Family Systems
SOC 305 Contemporary Family Problems
SW 220 Diversity Equity & Inclusion