Welcome to the School of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences

Report of the Dean
Dr. Daniel Dunn 

The goal of the School of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences is to help you reach your personal and professional goals by helping you to prepare for the challenges of living in a diverse, rapidly changing world. We can do this by providing you with the tools that will help you compete in our complex global economy. Our interdisciplinary approach to learning provides a broad perspective, helping you to develop analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities while you become an effective communicator, skilled in both interpersonal and written communication. The School of LASS consists of five departments that will help you realize your goals: Behavioral Sciences, Communication and Creative Arts, English and Philosophy, Foreign Languages and Literatures, and History and Political Science.

Behavioral Sciences
Prof. Michael J. Flannery, Department Head

The Department of Behavioral Sciences offers a diverse collection of undergraduate and graduate programs leading to Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degrees in, Psychology, Sociology, Hospitality & Tourism Management, Human Development & Family Studies, and - from our internationally recognized Couple & Family Therapy program - a Master of Science degree in Child Development & Family Studies. Associate of Arts degrees and or certificates may also be earned in most programs. Students acquire skills that serve as a foundation for professional and career development in harmony with the principles and qualities fostered by a comprehensive liberal arts and sciences education. The balance struck between classroom based learning and practical real-world experiences provides graduates the option to continue their education at professional schools and graduate programs, or to enter the job market immediately and develop careers in many public and private settings, including child, youth, and elder care facilities; mental health, counseling and social service agencies; education; business and industry; government; law enforcement; and recreation, fitness, hospitality and tourism.

Communication and Creative Arts
Dr. Yahya Kamalipour, Department Head

From the boardroom to the recital hall, from the TV studio to the artist's studio, the experiences available in this department are timely, professional, and exciting. We concentrate on developing students' abilities in critical thinking, analysis and interpretation of ideas and theories, competence in written and oral communication, and understanding the cultural diversity that enriches the human experience. Our programs prepare students to be successful by providing comprehensive courses, technical training, and practical experience in a variety of fields. Communication graduates are employed in professions such as advertising, broadcasting, corporate communications, education, journalism, marketing, public relations, research, sales, human resources, personnel development, publishing, and visual communication. The department offers 10 major options and 13 minors in communication and arts.

English and Philosophy
Dr. Dennis Barbour, Department Head

We offer courses to students from all majors in literature, writing and philosophy that help develop the ability to think critically and in-depth. Reading and thinking are the building blocks and foundation for all learning; writing skills are critical to success in all fields. Our programs will prepare you for a career in business, industry or the professions with excellent written and oral communication skills, proven research methods and a background in the best thinking and writing of people throughout history. With a degree in English you will be equipped with the skills necessary for success in a professional career in publishing, editing, writing and technical communication. Our Philosophy program emphasizes logical and critical thinking, and offers a sound foundation for careers and advanced degrees in business, law, government, management, the ministry, and education.

Foreign Languages and Literatures
Dr. Carmen Torres-Robles, Department Head

Learning a foreign language and its culture is vital to our multicultural society and fosters international understanding in an increasingly interdependent world. Our programs develop competence in foreign languages and foster respect for cultural differences, helping you gain an understanding of the contemporary society of the culture you are studying through its literature and civilization. We offer invaluable opportunities to study abroad, providing you with an opportunity to study, travel, and expand your cultural horizons through intimate encounters with the people and culture of Spain. Our graduates have pursued careers in such diverse areas as translation, foreign services, museums, law, education, the ministry, medicine, social work, banking, public relations, import/export, management, and marketing.

History and Political Science
Dr. Richard Rupp, Interim Department Head

Our programs give you an understanding of the development of civilizations and the nature of political behavior within and among nations. With a degree in History you will develop essential research, writing, and critical thinking abilities, helping you gain broad perspectives which will enable you to assess and analyze historical events. The Political Science programs, which include both a regular political science major and a criminal justice option, will provide you with a social scientific and analytical understanding of the rights and obligations of the citizen, knowledge of the role and operation of government, awareness of international relations, and an appreciation of public policy issues. Housed within the Department, the social studies teaching major is specifically designed for secondary teaching. Our graduates pursue successful careers in teaching, industry, public and international affairs, banking, librarianship, and law enforcement. Our programs also provide a solid background for public sector positions in government, foreign service, and not-for-profit organizations as well as preparing students for graduate school and law school.