Social sciences provide an analytical approach to society’s problems. As a result, faculty and students in the social sciences often focus on complex and intersectional issues such as racism, international conflict and war, climate change, and poverty. Through an objective and empirical approach to these issues, the goal is to generate genuine passion and equip future leaders with the skills they need to address the world’s challenges. Explore majors, minors, concentrations, and academic programs in the social sciences.
African Studies
Anthropology
Asian Studies
Black Studies
Climate Studies
Commerce and Society
Criminology
Economics
Environmental Science
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World-Class Faculty in the Social Sciences
Ashley Cordes
Assistant Professor of Indigenous Media in Environmental Studies and Data Science
Ashely Cordes is an academic expert in Indigenous data sovereignty, artificial intelligence, blockchain technology and cryptocurrency. Her research explores how Indigenous communities can leverage technological utilities—such as cryptocurrency and AI—for Tribal economic independence, representational and data sovereignty, and preservation of knowledge systems.
Neil O'Brian
Assistant Professor of Political Science
Neil O’Brian is an academic expert in U.S. politics focusing on public opinion, political parties, and polarization. His recent work has focused on how people’s perceptions of politics and current events affect their political attitudes. He’s recently published the book The Roots of Polarization: From the Racial Realignment to the Culture Wars (University of Chicago Press).
O’Brian is the second UO researcher to receive an Andrew Carnegie Fellowship. O’Brian is using the fellowship to further explore what he calls the “doctor’s project.” The start of this research began when he identified a partisan divide in the trust people have in their physicians; those on the political right expressed less trust in their doctors than those on the left. This is a recent phenomenon, as data showed no difference in trust in one’s doctor until a shift in 2020-21, during the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic. O’Brian argues the partisan divide over public health measures—such as masking and vaccines—led to less trust in the medicine industry.
Melissa Graboyes
Associate Professor of History, Global Health Program
Melissa Graboyes is a historian of modern Africa and a global health specialist whose research focuses primarily on medicine and science in the East African region.
Graboyes’ current research projects have been supported by major research funds. Her work on the history of malaria elimination on the African continent is funded by a five-year National Science Foundation CAREER award. A three-year collaborative research project on returning research results from social science disciplines to African participants—removing costly barriers to make findings more accessible—is funded with a three-year NSF award. She is also working on global health research at the local Eugene level through her project on aspects of care for people who inject drugs.
As a mentor, Graboyes works with undergraduate students in research groups. She leads the Global Health Research Group, which helps students gain skills and tools for conducting undergraduate research. The group consists of students interested in global health-related topics, as well as students majoring in a STEM field who are interested in ethics, history and the processes of science.
Schnitzer School of Global Studies and Languages
At the Schnitzer School of Global Studies and Languages, UO students engage with diverse cultures, languages, histories, and lifeways across the world. Students of the social sciences, from Anthropology to Sociology, will broaden and deepen their education in their field by viewing it—and experiencing it—through a global lens. GSL prepares our graduates for life after college with an interdisciplinary curriculum, innovative language teaching, abundant learning opportunities outside the classroom, and paths of study that lead to many options for real-world careers.
Research in the Social Sciences
Research in the social sciences investigates human behavior and the motivations that influence it. Although some of our research occurs in the lab, much of it is conducted out in the field using a variety of methodological approaches, from exploratory to experimental. The results of our research often carry societal-level implications and may point to solutions for addressing local, national, or global challenges.
2024-2025 Sponsored Research in Social Sciences
Between July 2024 and June 2025, researchers in CAS received $83 million to fund 199 research projects, including approximately $6 million for Social Sciences. The research projects, which span divisions and fields of study, represent CAS's commitment to curiosity, discovery, and innovation.
Explore Other Majors and Minors in the College of Arts and Sciences
Meet Our Dean
Welcome to the social sciences division of the College of Arts and Sciences. Within our community, we address some of the world’s problems—big or small—through interdisciplinary research and critical thinking. What drives us is a passion for exploring human behavior and society.
The social sciences provide the necessary foundation for any academic inquiry, from the creative arts to the natural sciences. Inside the classroom, we lead courses that are engaging and thought-provoking, inspiring students to become better citizens of our world and work toward a more inclusive future.
We also believe real-world experience offers some of the most impactful learning opportunities. From internships to study abroad trips that offer new cultural experiences, our students regularly engage in hands-on learning work that reaches across social, disciplinary, and geographic boundaries, allowing them to forge new connections and spark new ideas.
We look forward to changing the world with you.
Bruce McGough
Divisional Associate Dean, Social Sciences
Happening at CAS
April 6 through 10 is Graduate-Professional Student Appreciation Week, and we're celebrating the UO's graduate and law students with events, activities, and giveaways. See what's happening below, and check out our Graduate-Professional Student Appreciation Week webpage for more details.
All Week
- Free professional headshots (hosted by the Division of Graduate Studies)
- Prize wheel for COE graduate students (hosted by the College of Education, HEDCO's Student Academic Services Office)
- Free coffee for SOMD students (hosted by the School of Music and Dance)
Monday, April 6
- 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Free refreshments for all graduate and law students (hosted by the Division of Graduate Studies, Graduate Student Lounge, Susan Campbell Hall 111)
- Noon - 12:45 p.m. Free Pilates-yoga class for graduate students (hosted by PE and Rec, Woodruff Gymnasium, 220 Gerlinger Hall) - Register in advance
Tuesday, April 7
- 8:30 - 10 a.m. Knight Campus and collaborating departments and institutes coffee and treats (hosted by the Phil and Penny Knight Campus for Accelerating Impact, First Floor Forum, Knight Campus Building 2)
- Morning. Coffee and hot chocolate for law students (hosted by the School of Law)
Wednesday, April 8
- Morning. Doughnuts for Ducks for COE graduate students (hosted by the College of Education, HEDCO Courtyard)
- Noon - 12:45 p.m. Free Pilates-yoga class for graduate students (hosted by PE and Rec, Woodruff Gymnasium, 220 Gerlinger Hall) - Register in advance
- Noon - 1:00 p.m. College of Design graduate student showcase and social (hosted by the College of Design, Hayden Gallery)
- 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Free button-making table for all graduate and law students (hosted by the Craft Center and the Division of Graduate Studies, Graduate Student Lounge, Susan Campbell Hall 111)
Thursday, April 9
- 9 - 11 a.m. Free coffee and pastries for all graduate and law students (hosted by the Knight Library, GradSpace, Knight Library 148)
- 2:30 - 4:30 p.m. Free button-making table, plant giveaway, and refreshments for all graduate and law students (hosted by the Division of Graduate Studies, Graduate Student Lounge, Susan Campbell Hall 111)
- 2:30 - 4:30 p.m. Reception for CAS graduate students (hosted by the College of Arts and Sciences, Tykeson Hall)
Friday, April 10
- UO Summit for Sustainable Organizations. Ten free tickets available for graduate and law students (email summit.so@uoregon.edu to request your free ticket)
- 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Free coffee if you wear your UO Ducks gear (hosted by Duck Store, Flagship Campus Location in Eugene)
- Noon - 2:00 p.m. Free rock painting with the Craft Center (hosted by the Craft Center, Erb Memorial Union, Oregon Plaza by the O Desk)
- 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Grad student networking: Like to mingle? Let’s play bingo! (hosted by the Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation, Willamette Hall Atrium) - RSVP by April 6
Saturday, April 11
- UO Summit for Sustainable Organizations. Ten free tickets available for graduate and law students (email summit.so@uoregon.edu to request your free ticket)
Find daily ways to engage your career curiosity with workshops, local industry tours, alumni panels & networking events, the Spring Career & Internship Expo (4/16), and Practice Interview Day (4/17) that will help you develop skills and connections on the road to career readiness. For a full list of workshops, career tours, networking events, resume reviews, alumni panels, and more, visit career.uoregon.edu/events or register for events in Handshake. Why wait?! Stop by the University Career Center in Tykeson Hall-Garden Level ASAP to get drop-in resume reviews and other career guidance to make the most of your Career Readiness Week!
The University Career Center offers a special thanks to our Spring 2026 Career Readiness Week sponsor: Enterprise Mobility!
FULL LIST OF EVENTS!
Resume Extravaganza (Drop-In Resume Reviews) Wednesday, April 8th, 11am-4pm, Tykeson Hall Commons (1st Floor) Did you know you can have someone review your resume before the Career & Internship Expo? Drop in any time to get feedback on your resume. Don’t have a resume? Come learn how to make one!
Spring Career Closet Pop-Up Thursday, April 9th, 12pm-3pm, EMU Redwood Auditorium (214) Make a first impression that reflects your awesomeness! Browse through new and gently used business casual and professional clothes, and curate a FREE interview-ready outfit!
Career Tour: Healthcare Friday, April 11th, 8:45am-1pm, meet at Ford Alumni Center (RSVP on Handshake Required! Space Limited!) Thinking about a career in healthcare? Have we got a Friday morning for you! Hop on the bus and let’s go explore McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center in Springfield for a behind-the-scenes tour and Q&A with healthcare leaders just for UO students!
Building your Network: LinkedIn & Beyond (Workshop) Friday, April 10th, 2pm-2:45pm, Tykeson Hall Garden Level 50P (University Career Center-Conference Room) Learn how to build meaningful professional connections, both online and in person. We’ll cover how to create or update your LinkedIn profile, reach out for informational interviews, and make the most of networking opportunities at the UO and beyond.
Curious about the Career & Internship Expo (Virtual Info Session) Monday, April 13th, 12pm-1pm via Zoom (Register in Handshake) Learn the ins and outs of navigating the in-person Career & Internship Expo, updating your Handshake profile, researching employers, and how to present yourself authentically during the expo.
So, You want to learn about Grad School (Workshop) Tuesday, April 14th, 2:30pm-3:15pm, Tykeson Hall Garden Level 50P (University Career Center-Conference Room) Whether you are just exploring or already researching programs, this workshop will help you make sense of your options. We will break down different types of degrees, how to find and compare programs, and what to expect in the application process so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
Your Future in Tech + Connect (Networking) Tuesday, April 14, 4pm-6pm, EMU Crater Lake Rooms Join us for a special industry-connection night dedicated to helping you get career ready for your future in Tech. Participate in small group networking with tech professionals and alumni to get advice on career-building opportunities and connections.
Interviewing Strategies for Success (Workshop) Wednesday, April 15th, 12pm-12:45pm, Tykeson Hall Garden Level 50P (University Career Center-Conference Room) Learn how to prepare with confidence, answer common (and tricky) interview questions, and communicate your strengths clearly. We will also share helpful tools and resources you can use before your next interview.
Opportunity Hub (Panel + Networking) Wednesday, April 15th , 3:30pm-5pm, EMU Crater Lake Rooms (146) Following panel from 3:30pm-4pm, Grab a snack and rotate through casual small group chats with alumni, professionals, and employers to learn more about their companies (like Nike, Pinterest, Teach for America and more!), career paths, and get advice about how to find career-building opportunities and connections for your future.
Job Shadow Day Interest Meeting
Wednesday, April 15th, 4pm-5pm, Tykeson Commons Come learn about Job Shadow Day happening on May 15th and how getting outside your comfort zone for one Friday with mystery mentors can jumpstart your career exploration!
BizCareers: Internships Spring into Fall Ready (Panel + Networking) Wednesday, April 15th, 5:30-8pm, Lillis 182 & Atrium INTERNSHIPS! How to find them, prepare for, apply, and land them!
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Internship Stories Panel, 5:30-60, Lillis 182 Hear practical, applicable insights from a panel of alumni, industry partners who hire, and students who successfully navigated the process during an internship prep panel focused on networking, referrals, timing, applications, and more.
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Internship Power Prep Round Tables (with FOOD!), 6:30-8pm, Lillis Atrium Stay for a structured roundtable Q&A, exploring four essential topics—researching companies and people, getting started with networking, building resilience during the search process, and developing mentorship and ongoing relationships. You will practice asking great questions, get personalized advice, and walk away with actionable next steps you can use immediately.
Spring Career & Internship Expo
Thursday, April 16th, 12pm-4pm, EMU Ballrooms
Get curious about your future and make connections with cool employers! Find your career fit with over 60+ employers comprised of a variety of industries and organizational types--all on-campus and excited to share more with you about early career talent opportunities.
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First Career & Internship Expo? Or just a little nervous? Come early and get a low-stress, behind-the-scenes Expo Preview & Tour (11:15am-noon, EMU Ballrooms) and learn how to navigate the expo and make a good first impression with employers.
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Take part in the Expo Scavenger Hunt to win prizes and have fun conversation starters with employers.
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Want to make a great first impression? Bring copies of your resume and wear an outfit that reflects your confidence, personality, and professionalism.
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While you are all dressed up, get a FREE Professional Headshot taken to add to your LinkedIn!
Friday, April 17th, 12pm-4pm (30-45 minutes each), Tykeson Hall 1st Floor Commons Come practice commonly asked interview questions and get active feedback from experienced professionals and career coaches on your communication style, professionalism, and more. Drop-ins are welcome!
8:45 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Thinking about a career in Healthcare? Have we got a Friday morning for you! Hop on the bus and let’s go explore McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center in Springfield for a behind-the-scenes tour and Q&A with healthcare leaders just for UO students! Learn more about all the different types of job functions needed to keep this growing industry booming--from both the medical and business sides. They are excited to introduce you to career paths, meet alumni and leaders, and show off some of their innovations in action!
This event is FREE, open to all majors, and bring a friend! Must register on Handshake to save your spot! Tour space is limited! Day of registration is available if there are spots. email career@uoregon.edu if you are a community member or faculty/staff who'd like to join us.
OUTLINE OF TOUR:
Meet at Ford Alumni Center NO LATER THAN 8:45am; We'll walk over to the bus stop (Agate) to catch the EMX to the hospital in Springfield. Tour from 10am-12pm. At 12 pm we'll be done with the tour and there will be a group getting on the bus to head back to campus you can join OR feel free to go grab lunch or have fun in Springfield!
Sponsored by University Career Center and Collaborative Economic Development Oregon. Check out other events happening this term at career.uoregon.edu/events
1:00–2:00 p.m.
The Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program, Center for Undergraduate Research and Engagement, and the Latinx Studies Program Present: "Not Just for Scientists: Integrating Undergrads into Faculty Research in the Humanities and Social Sciences."
Remote workshop for faculty. Zoom link available on the Latinx Studies website.
UO undergrads have many ways to receive university funding while working with you on a research project; this can bring you assistance with meaningful research tasks along with the joy of mentoring. But in the humanities and qualitative social sciences, many of us never had models to learn how to build a team in this way. In this 60-minute workshop, you’ll hear from scholars who do qualitative and interpretive work about how they have integrated undergraduates into their research process. We’ll leave time for small-group facilitated discussions to brainstorm possibilities for you to do the same.