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Students pose for marketing photos in Langsam Library.

Social Sciences

The social sciences at the College of Arts and Sciences provide an insightful exploration of human behavior and societal structures. This academic field includes a variety of disciplines such as sociology, political science, anthropology, Africana studies, and communication. Students are encouraged to analyze and interpret complex social phenomena, developing a nuanced understanding of how individuals and communities interact. Emphasizing critical thinking, research, and data analysis, the social sciences equip students with skills that are highly valued across numerous professions.

The faculty, consisting of experienced researchers and educators, guide students through a comprehensive study of social dynamics, fostering awareness and problem-solving abilities. Through interdisciplinary coursework and collaborative research opportunities, the social sciences at the College of Arts and Sciences prepare students to become informed leaders and proactive citizens in an ever-evolving global society.

Latest News

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UC launches Bearcats Affordability Grant

January 7, 2026

The University of Cincinnati is making college more attainable for students across Ohio with the creation of the Bearcats Affordability Grant. The new grant will provide a pathway to tuition-free college for students of families who make less than $75,000 per year. Beginning in fall 2026, the Bearcats Affordability Grant will cover the remaining cost of tuition for Ohio residents who are Pell eligible.

3

UC team unveils Wyandot Removal Trail across Ohio

October 24, 2025

Rebecca Wingo, an associate professor of history and director of the public history program in the University of Cincinnati’s College of Arts and Sciences, is featured in a WVXU story about new historical markers honoring the Wyandot people—the last Indigenous nation forcibly removed from Ohio.

4

John Updike called his letters dull. They’re anything but.

October 23, 2025

James A. Schiff, founding editor of The John Updike Review and UC English professor, edited Selected Letters of John Updike, the first comprehensive collection of the author’s correspondence. Drawing from thousands of letters spanning Updike’s life, Schiff offers new insight into the writer’s personal and literary world. The volume was edited by The New York Times.

5

From political science to insurance underwriting

October 22, 2025

A career in insurance wasn’t in the cards for Max Roberts when he started his political science degree at UC, but that was where he landed. “I originally thought I’d pursue law or public policy,” said Roberts. “Political science gave me a strong foundation in critical analysis and communication, skills that turned out to be surprisingly relevant in the insurance world.”


Social Sciences in the News

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Renowned sculptor and UC grad talks about his public art

September 24, 2025

UC graduate and renowned sculptor Tom Tsuchiya talks to CET about his many public works of art, including his latest, a bust of 700-WLW radio announcer Marty Brennaman that was unveiled in September outside Great American Ball Park.

2

Risks in AI-powered mental health support

September 10, 2025

Assistant Professor Kelly Merrill Jr. warns AI technology is far from ready to replace human therapists. Merrill, who studies the intersection of technology and health communication, was interviewed by Spectrum News to discuss safeguards over AI and health communications.

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UC rolls out the welcome mat for the first day of class

August 27, 2025

UC students, faculty and adminstrators spoke with Cincinnati journalists about the first day of class for Fall 2025. The morning live segments also showcased the new Sheakley Indoor Practice Facility and Athletics Performance Center.

5

Pint-size pioneer ‘Dora the Explorer’ celebrates her 25th

July 2, 2025

Erynn Casanova, head of the Department of Sociology at the University of Cincinnati who conducted early research on Latino representation in children’s television, was cited in an Associated Press (AP) article on the role "Dora the Explorer" played in popular culture.