A minor allows you to pursue interests in an area of knowledge outside of your major field of study. To pursue a minor, you must be enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program and file a Curriculum Add/Drop Form to inform the Registrar's Office of your interest in the minor. We recommend that you begin your minor studies as early as possible in your academic career.
Minors offered by the Department of Social Sciences:
American Studies
Gain a deeper understanding of American society and current affairs through studies in history, politics, and social institutions. The American Studies minor draws upon the disciplines of history, sociology, political science, anthropology, and literature.
For more information, contact Professor Laura Rouleau.
Global Community Development Partnerships
The hands-on immersion experience Global Community Development Partnerships minor builds competencies in intercultural sensitivity, diversity, understanding communities, and a prominent sector of development work in order to partner effectively with communities on projects. The minor curriculum is designed to pair well with earning a Peace Corps Prep certificate. Peace Corps Prep is an official University partnership with the US Peace Corps for undergraduates.
For more information, contact Professor Kari Henquinet.
Global Studies
Study culture, politics, history, and the environment from global and comparative perspectives. The Global Studies minor focuses on the histories and cultures of Europe and developing nations. Through coursework in comparative social systems and the international dimensions of specific current issues, you will develop an indispensable skill set for examining US society and politics.
For more information, contact Professor Kathryn Hannum.
Law and Society
Interested in law? Gain a foundation in government and policy issues. The Law and Society minor allows you to choose from a wide variety of courses, including international law, political philosophy, environmental policy and politics, intellectual property law, and more.
For more information, contact Professor Susanna Peters.
Public History
The Public History minor provides more effective options for you to integrate history and historical interpretation in your course of study. It also turns the normally inward-looking discipline of history into one that embraces outreach our community and others, asking how the past can benefit the present and future.
For more information, contact Professor Laura Rouleau.
Public Policy and Law
Gain a deeper understanding of the laws and policy processes that shape our world with the Public Policy and Law minor. This minor introduces you to the foundations of legal and policy systems—essential knowledge for those pursuing careers in engineering, natural and social sciences, business, and beyond. You'll explore how political, legal, and economic institutions influence strategies for building a just, secure, and sustainable society. Develop strong communication skills across multiple platforms and prepare to effectively engage with diverse audiences and drive informed decision-making in any field.
For more information, contact Professor Don Lafreniere
Social and Behavioral Studies
Equip yourself to investigate the social causes and consequences of human behavior. The Social and Behavioral Studies minor focuses on the relationships between society, culture, and the individual in institutional life. The minor's coursework is designed to introduce students to the research, theory, and applications of social scientific knowledge, focusing on how people think, behave, and interact within cultures, societies, group structures, and organizations.
For more information, contact Professor Susanna Peters.
Sustainability Studies
Explore the intersection of people, the environment, and technology with the Sustainability Science and Society minor. Learn to analyze complex human-natural systems, contribute to real-world environmental solutions, and advocate for environmental justice. Explore the social and natural science dimensions of sustainability while building skills in communication and intercultural competency. Communicate effectively across diverse audiences and scales—from local communities to global networks.
For more information, contact Professor Mark Rouleau.