Foundational courses dive deeply into the empirical, methodological, and theoretical pillars of social scientific research. In doing so, the Social Studies major embodies the spirit of the liberal arts through targeted investigation of fundamental issues facing society while providing flexibility for students to employ their skills to focal areas of their choice. While students can complete foundational courses in any sequence, it is recommended that they complete their theory requirement in year Two.
Students must take three foundational courses to complete the major/minor, including the required survey course.
Foundational Survey Course – Social Inquiry (SOCI 102): This course provides a survey of topics studied across the social sciences through an investigation of major challenges we face today. Themes include social issues related to governance, equality, health, gender and sexuality, race, environment, development, family, everyday life, and technology. This course will discuss the different branches of the social sciences in order to give students insights into how to orient their future program of study.
Foundational Methods Course: In addition to Social Inquiry, students are required to take one introductory methods-intensive course. While many intermediate and advanced courses will contain a methodological component, these courses provide practical experience for students in the diverse empirical approaches taken by social sciences. Students will be exposed to both qualitative and quantitative approaches to research.
Sample Methods Courses:
- Social Science Research Methods (SOCI 105)
- Ethnographic Research Methods (SOCI 223)
Foundational Theory Course: The social sciences emerged as a distinct form of intellectual inquiry alongside the industrialization of the late 19th century in Europe. Students will take a theory course that looks at core theoretical approaches which are shared across social scientific disciplines. Though many of contemporary social science’s theoretical antecedents originated in the west, we also examine how they have migrated to, been translated in, and influenced Asia. While students can complete foundational courses in any sequence, it is recommended that they complete their theory requirement in year Two.
Sample Theory Courses
- Ethics and Moral Philosophy (SOCI 216)
- Love and Sex (SOCI 219)
- Introduction to Science and Technology Studies (SOCI 211)
Foundation Courses (3 required)
