Social Sciences (SOCS1-UC)

In this course students study the dynamics of the communications process and participate in a workshop for developing effective interpersonal skills. It emphasizes a wide range of behaviors and situations from one-on-one interactions to formal presentations in a cross-cultural context.

This research methodology course develops the student's ability to do social science research, particularly in the fields of anthropology, sociology, international studies, media studies, and politics. It begins with bibliographic research, emphasizing the full range of available tools: library catalogues, online databases, indices of periodical literature, and archives of the visual media. Then it enhances the student's understanding of the manner in which material is gathered and how it can be used in the research paper.

Student conduct an independent investigation of selected topics outside the boundaries of the classroom. Independent study allows students to pursue specialized interests, within the framework of the curriculum, that are not available in existing courses. Although self-directed, students work closely with a faculty mentor who guides and evaluates their work.

Social Science students may undertake an internship early in their academic career which can be 2 or 4 credits. To qualify for a SOCS internship, students should be in good standing within their program and have the approval of their adviser. Students wishing to consider a SOCS internship should submit a proposal outlining their internship, which must then be approved by the Internship Coordinator. After the proposal is approved, students undertake an internship, which typically entails outplacement in an organization related to the student's interests or academic concentration. A minimum of 100 hours is required over the course of the semester. In addition to the hours at their internship, students meet regularly with the Internship Coordinator and other interns, maintain a weekly journal, and (required for a 4-credit internship) complete a final paper or work portfolio.

Professional level presentation skills are essential for sharing academic research, TED Talk inspired thought leadership, or a business plan pitch. This course is intended for students who have completed a written research project or business plan which they would like to repurpose into a standup presentation. Focusing on best practices for presentation design and delivery, the art and science of audience analysis, and visualizing conceptual information and data, students repurpose a personal business plan, white paper, or academic research into a live talk. Class exercises, readings, and assignments focus on best practices, self-assessment, videotape review, and personal reflection. Ongoing peer review and instructor coaching will allow those with a natural inclination for presenting, as well as the novice, the rusty, or the terrified to take their presentation skills to the next professional level without sacrificing scholarly or professional rigor.

Students are assisted in defining and undertaking an individually designed Senior Project. They complete a research paper or a creative project related to their concentration. Students work closely with the Senior Project faculty member and meet regularly with fellow students in discussion groups. The final result is the summation of work done in the Bachelor of Arts Program.

An alternative to the Senior Project Seminar, the Senior Project Internship allows students to apply knowledge from concentration coursework to a professional work experience related to their studies. Students should submit a proposal outlining their internship, which must be approved by the Internship Coordinator. A minimum of 100 hours of on-site work is required and should take place over the duration of the fall/spring (15-week) or summer (12-week) semester. This weekly engagement with the internship is important. In addition to hours at their placement, students meet regularly with the Internship Coordinator and attend class meetings with other interns. A written component (a weekly journal and a final paper) is also required. Prerequisites: Completion of 90 units, including eight units of Methods and Theory and 16 units of concentration coursework.