Social Science

The Department of Social Science is fundamental to the liberal arts core for SMSU students, introducing students to the study of people as individuals, with their own histories and cultures, affected by the social structures in which they live.  Alumni remember the first time they reflected on their own emotional growth in their classes with a psychology professor, contemplated their place in society and the world with political science, sociology, geography, and anthropology faculty, and reconsidered the circumstances of the past in their history and indigenous studies courses.  Some chose a major in one of those fields or were inspired to further study for a career in justice administration or social work, always benefiting from hands-on experiences and guided by knowledgeable and caring faculty mentors.   

 For this year’s Mustangs for Life event, the Social Science Department has three goals: 1) purchase or commission artwork that affirms our commitment as a department to Indigenous nation, with the specific goal of having a sculpture placed in the courtyard outside the CH building, our new home; 2) maintain our aim of funding student and faculty research; and, 3) maintain our aim of updating our classroom accommodations and resources. Our students and faculty members often cannot afford a trip to an archive or conference—experiences that enrich their on-campus learning and teaching.  While the founders of SMSU certainly purchased furniture that would last, the needs of 21st-century students demand chairs and desks that are more functional for a dynamic classroom experience.   Your generous contribution on this year’s M4L Day, directed to the Social Science Department, will help us meet our goal to provide students with the highest quality education possible. Thank you for your consideration and support of the Social Sciences Department at SMSU!