Behavioral and Social Sciences Department

The Behavioral and Social Sciences Department consists of the following units: Behavioral Sciences, Social Sciences, and Public Policy and Law. The Behavioral Sciences unit offers courses in the disciplines of Psychology, Sociology, and Anthropology. The Social Sciences unit offers courses in the disciplines of history, economics, political science, interdisciplinary social sciences, and political economy. The Public Policy and Law unit offers courses in public administration, criminal justice, and paralegal studies.

The Behavioral and Social Sciences disciplines are essential elements of a liberal arts education. In recognition of this, the College requires the successful completion of twelve (12) credits in these disciplines as part of the requirements of the A.A. degree. Three (3) credits in Public Administration may be applied toward the twelve-credit behavioral and social sciences graduation requirement for the A.A. degree. A study of these disciplines should contribute to an individual's functioning in many areas of life. Moreover, this study provides an opportunity for students to examine the nature of society and human behavior, social problems, and social change. The behavioral and social sciences are, therefore, recommended for all students.

Study in the behavioral and social sciences allows for a wide choice of careers in teaching, law, government, diplomacy, public agencies, social work, research foundations, business, health fields, as well as self-employment. Several introductory, behavioral and social sciences courses are offered in both English and Spanish.

Historical Studies Option

The Historical Studies Option (HSO) helps students develop the disciplinary frameworks, research methodology, and historical knowledge necessary to analyze social groups, societies, and issues as an historian. Students will explore and analyze various societies and the experiences of ordinary people, with particular attention to the effects of class, race, ethnicity, and gender norms. In addition to learning about different geographical areas of the world, students will also encounter essential and significant questions that humans have explored for millennia, and do so while learning about competing schools of historical thought and practice. Students will develop the skills to ask critical questions, improve their reading comprehension, research and write as historians, and become better problem solvers, which are marketable skills for a wide variety of careers and academic majors. A multi-dimensional perspective on historical processes across time and space could help students transition into the following academic majors: History, Political Science, Pre-Law, Education, and Ethnic Studies; as well as into a variety of careers, including: Education, Politics, International Affairs, Educational or Political Consulting, Manuscript Editing, Public History, Museum Curation, creative fields, and others that value strong reasoning and writing skills. In addition to any courses taken as part of the Common or Flexible Core, students must complete two (2) of the six (6) historical sequences listed below. At least one of the sequences must be from Tier 1: Required Sequences. Students will be permitted to either complete both of their sequences from Tier 1 or they can take one sequence from Tier 1 and one sequence from Tier 2.

Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Behavior and Social Institutions Option

Behavioral Sciences disciplines study different social aspects of human behavior and the ways in which humans have developed and interacted in the context of their own social reality. The Behavioral Sciences disciplines included in this Option are Sociology, Anthropology, and Psychology. Sociology is a science that examines social behavior, social interactions, social institutions, and social change. Anthropology, as a science, adds to the knowledge about past and contemporary societies and cultures as well as the origins of humans. Psychology, as a science, concentrates on individual behavior and personality, although it also looks at different social aspects of human behavior. These disciplines together not only help us to better understand our everyday reality, but also provide an understanding of our own culture, diverse cultural practices found in the United States and other societies, and the wide variations of norms and values from one society to another. The Behavioral Sciences Option offers an interdisciplinary approach connecting and mapping concepts from Sociology, Anthropology, and Psychology. Students in this Option will use the tools of Behavioral Sciences theories and research. They will acquire critical thinking and intellectual skills such as comprehension, application, analysis, and evaluation. They will also become familiar with team work and communication skills that will prepare them for future studies in Sociology, Political Science, Criminal Justice, Psychology, Ethnic/Women’s studies, Anthropology, Social work, and Counseling. Credits earned in this Option can be transferred toward a bachelor’s degree in any of the disciplines mentioned above. After completion of a bachelor’s degree, students can pursue graduate studies in these fields. This Option will also provide a strong background for entry level positions as caseworkers, case managers, counselors, group workers, child advocates, family managers in social services, community organizations, non-profits, health services, and other agencies. Agencies are well aware of the specialized skillset necessary to effectively navigate our diverse, pluralistic, and changing world. Behavioral Sciences provides an extensive skillset focused on cultural competency and thus the ability to understand the values, needs and interaction of people from diverse cultures.

Psychology Option

Why is General Psychology the most popular undergraduate course? The study of Psychology provides an understanding about WHY we think, feel and behave the way we do. In addition, the science of psychology provides a research and theoretical foundation that intersects with all disciplines in the liberal arts. This Option gives students the opportunity to examine the broad scope of Psychology as an academic discipline, science, and profession. Course work stimulates critical thinking about the human mind and behavior from multiple lenses including child and adult psychology, the psychology of women, culture, race and ethnicity, aging and group dynamics. It also provides the communications and critical thinking skills needed for success in this field. By engaging students in a dynamic understanding of Psychology, the Psychology Option provides increased awareness and preparation for service to the community and related careers. The Option also prepares students for transfer to a 4-year college to complete a B.A. in Psychology, as well as to pursue careers in allied health, business, criminal justice, education, human services, mental health services, social work, theater arts, and more. This Option also serves as a gateway for those interested in seeking advanced studies leading to a career as a Psychologist, whether in the specializations of clinical, sports, forensics, developmental and/or organizational psychology. Students can also seek a career as a licensed mental health counselor or counselor in some of the following human service fields: substance abuse, marriage and family, school and career.

Psychology – Research Option

Psychology is the study of behavior and mental processes and entails the application and practice of the scientific method. The ability to make exciting new discoveries through scientific inquiry require research skills and the Psychology – Research Option creates a path for those who wish to critically examine the world and empower themselves as advocates. The required courses in this Option are an introduction to the concepts and theories critical to the understanding of human behavior, the scientific method, the math and writing used in the discipline as well as the research skills required for scientific investigation. Successful completion of the Psychology – Research Option creates numerous opportunities to pursue additional degrees and entry level career paths in research, data analysis, and any of the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) fields. Graduates with degrees in Psychology can pursue entry-level opportunities in a multitude of fields such as community-based research and grants writing, social work, business, finance, marketing, healthcare, the performing arts, and education. The Psychology – Research Option is additionally attractive due to its emphasis on the understanding and application of the scientific method. The ability to reason and problem solve as a scientist is a marketable skill set for any potential employer or school of study. Similarly, as the principles of the scientific method are applicable to any STEM discipline, this Option is a viable path to not only further study of Psychology, but also any STEM area.

Social Studies Option

The Social Studies Option (SSO) provides students with interdisciplinary perspectives on the nature of human interactions and how societies function. Choosing this Option allows students to study the political, historical, cultural, and economic dynamics of social interactions from a variety of theoretical and pragmatic frameworks. Students will develop the skills to ask critical questions, improve their reading comprehension, write in multiple disciplines, and become better problem solvers, which are marketable skills for a wide variety of careers and academic majors. Students who complete this Option could transition into the following academic majors: History, Political Science, and Economics; and the following careers: Education, Politics, Educational or Political Consulting, Public History, and others that value strong reasoning and writing skills.

Social Work Option

An Option in Social Work at the Associate level opens many opportunities in the field through preparation for future education or applied practice at an entry level. The field of Social Work is one of the most versatile fields within Liberal Arts as it serves as a gateway to employment opportunities in Human Services. Social Workers are the pillar of providing services in Child Welfare, Substance Abuse, Mental Health, Geriatric Care, the Prison System, Housing Services, Preventative Services, Foster Care, Judicial System, HIV Services, Medical system, Education, Private Practice in Psychotherapy, Administrative/Social Service Management, and Social Program Development. In the introductory courses within the Social Work Option, students will learn about the effects of racial, ethnic, gender, and class inequalities. When students enter the Practicum, they will be able to apply the concepts acquired in previous courses as well as provide services to the community. The student will acquire skills in interpersonal communications working as members of an interdisciplinary team while addressing the needs of the clientele. Students will develop an understanding of the diverse multi-lingual urban clientele receiving services in the South Bronx agencies, and will be in direct contact with the social problems affecting the clientele. The Liberal Arts Option in Social Work will provide the students with job opportunities in Human Services agencies at the entry level. It will also facilitate further educational opportunities at the Bachelor level since the Social Work Option meets articulation agreements with Lehman and York Colleges’ Social Work programs. The students will be able to transfer up to 60 credits to the above institutions.

United States Studies Option

The United States Studies Option (USSO) provides students with interdisciplinary perspectives on the society and culture of the United States. Choosing this Option allows students to explore the nation’s political, historical, and economic foundations, and engage in contemporary debates on the major issues and questions affecting American society. The United States Studies Option also promotes civic knowledge and an understanding of its significance, both in the past and in contemporary American society. Students will develop the skills to ask critical questions, improve their reading comprehension, research and write in multiple disciplines, and become better problem solvers, which are marketable skills for a wide variety of careers and academic majors. A multi-dimensional perspective on the evolution of American society could help students transition into the following academic majors: History, Political Science, Economics, Sociology, Literature, and Ethnic Studies; and into many careers, including: Education, Politics, Educational or Political Consulting, Public History, creative fields, and others that value strong reasoning and writing skills. In addition to any courses taken as part of the Common or Flexible Core, students must take three (3) additional courses as part of their electives. Students must take one (1) course from each of the tiers below:

Education Department

The Education Department offers degree programs that lead to rewarding careers in gerontology, community health education, and early childhood education. The Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree program is recommended for students interested in pursuing a baccalaureate degree, while the Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree programs are designed for students who plan to enter the workforce immediately after graduation. The Associate in Science (A.S) degree program prepares students for the job market in the health care industry and for transfer to senior institutions where they can continue their studies and career aspirations. The department also has offerings in physical fitness, nutrition, and mental health. The faculty of the Education Department is committed to student well-being. As such, counseling, advisement, education, and other assistance are made available to students both in and out of the classroom. The mission of the Education Department is to advance knowledge centered in research and grounded in best practice in the fields of Gerontology, Health Education, Physical Education, and Teacher Education to prepare competent, caring, effective practitioners. Embracing a global perspective to address the needs of all learners, the Education Department nurtures students by providing experiential learning and service opportunities within the community; fosters a holistic approach to teaching and learning by helping students develop intellectual, communication, and workplace skills that provide a strong background to further students’ career and academic goals; and promotes faculty engagement in research and community service.

Community Health Option

As an introduction to the field of public health, the Community Health Liberal Arts A.A. Option focuses on studying, protecting, and improving the health of individuals, communities, and organizations. The Community Health Option introduces students to a wide range of educational experiences within the health field by offering an interdisciplinary overview of basic health concepts that are common to all the health professions and are derived from biological, behavioral, and social sciences. Students enrolled in this Option will obtain a foundational understanding of current health issues such as health inequity, health promotion and disease prevention. In addition, they will develop the skills needed to effectively address contemporary health issues affecting their communities. The Community Health Option thus prepares students with the competencies they need to pursue their professional and academic goals in health-related areas. Students completing this Option will have the ability to work in a variety of settings including nonprofit community health organizations, public health agencies, worksite and health promotion programs, schools, and voluntary health agencies. This Option also enables students to transfer to a four-year college program in health-related fields. Courses are transferable to senior colleges, are accepted by appropriate accrediting agencies and complement students' professional studies in the health field. Significantly, The Community Health Option will enable students to join national efforts to eliminate health disparities in New York City and other metropolitan areas in the United States.

Health Care Management Option

This interdisciplinary concentration will provide students with a broad understanding of the health care field. It consists of courses from several academic programs such as community health, public policy & administration, and business management. It will provide a strong foundation in the liberal arts as well as foundational understanding of current health issues such as health inequity, cross-cultural and interpersonal communication, health and public administration as well as business management. All of the courses in this concentration are transferrable to a four-year CUNY College such as Lehman where students will be able to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Services Administration.

Physical Education Teacher Option

In the Physical Education Teacher Education Option, students delve into a variety of topics in the sciences and education. Coursework covers the historical background of Physical Education and Sports and allows students to gain an understanding of how physical movement works and to learn techniques and skills in selected sports and exercises. The Physical Education Teacher Option provides Liberal Arts students with the skills and knowledge to begin careers as Physical Education Teachers, Coaches, Dance instructors, and Camp Sports Specialists. Students can transfer to four-year college degree programs in the field of Physical Education at, for example, Queens College, Lehman College, or York College.

Physical Education Science Option

In the Physical Education Science Option, students investigate scientific topics to understand more closely how physical movement works. Coursework includes the historical background of Physical Education and Sports, techniques and skills in selected sports and exercises, and science courses. The Physical Education Science Option prepares students for careers as Physical Therapy Aides (ultimately leading to Physical Therapy Assistant and Physical Therapist), Personal Trainers and Athletic Trainers. The Option enable students to transfer to four-year college degree programs in the fields of Exercise Science, at, for example, Queens College, Lehman College, or York College.

Teacher Education Option

The Teacher Education Option Supports students interested in theories and practices of education. This option is for students interested in learning about the profession of teaching; the cognitive, physical, psychological, and social development of children from birth through adolescence, including human exceptionalities. It is a strong basis for those interested in becoming paraprofessionals or assistant teachers, working toward state certification as a lead teacher or operating a childcare center. Students will complete a 25- hour field experience where they will observe day-to-day activities in a classroom or childcare setting. Each of these courses are transferrable to the four-year Early Childhood Education programs at Lehman College and Medgar Evers College.

English Department

The English Department values the ability of literature to enrich our lives. Our electives foster deep engagement 118 with texts and the ability to use writing as a creative, flexible tool. As such, the English Department offers Options as part of the A.A. Degree in Liberal Arts.

Style, Story and Expression Option

How do writers build stories? How does the style of a poem shape its meaning? What is the difference between reading words on a page and hearing them performed on stage? Why are comic books, popular music, and movies worthy of serious attention? The English Option in Style, Story, and Expression invites students to explore the multitude of ways that writers tell stories. It emphasizes the pleasure of reading while teaching students to analyze literature at a more advanced level. This Option prepares students for further studies in English upon transfer to a four-year college. It also empowers students to be effective communicators in a number of disciplines, including literature, film, media studies, visual art, philosophy. It also prepares students for further studies in career fields including translation, education, publishing, and the law.

Writing Studies Option

How does writing become persuasive? What is the relationship between writing and thinking? People write more than ever in the digital age. In this Option, students practice the foundations and features of powerful and diverse types of writing. This Option also empowers students to be effective communicators in a number of different styles and prepares students for all types of careers and degrees as they move forward with their professional progress. The technical and written expertise in many of the included courses will benefit students, including STEM majors of all types, future engineers, nurses, business administrators, social scientists, and those whose passion lies in the arts.

Literature and the Human Experience Option

Through the study of literature, this suite of courses provides insight into our understanding of the human experience and invites students to consider diverse and sometimes conflicting literary representations of our world. This Option prepares students for further studies in English upon transfer to a four-year college. Studying literature in this context will also enrich perspectives on courses in sociology, psychology, political science, history, and cultural studies. This Option emphasizes skills valued in the professional workplace including thoughtful reading, careful attention to detail, openness to different perspectives, imaginative thinking, evidence-based reasoning, deep analysis, and advanced research methods. As such, it also prepares students for further studies in career fields including translation, education, publishing, and the law

Women’s and Gender Studies Option

Through the Women and Gender Studies Option, students learn about gender and sexuality in the family, media, popular culture, language, literature and the arts, employment, religions, politics, and hidden histories. Students strengthen critical thinking skills by questioning commonly held assumptions about gender, sexuality, race, and class, examining intersections among different forms of oppression. The WGS Option opens a seamless pathway to CUNY senior colleges where majors and/or minors are offered in WGS. Graduates develop marketable skills such as research, problem solving, communication, and leadership. They are valued for their knowledge about the impact of gender on private and public life. Demand for this expertise is strong in health care, law, education, community organizing, psychology, criminal justice, social work, counseling, and government service. In WGS courses, students connect personal experiences with their studies, deepening their learning and encouraging civic engagement. Examining attitudes and practices that foster gender justice, WGS students are poised to effect change in their communities and places of employment.

Humanities Department

The Humanities Department fosters and maintains the history and practice of all aspects of humanistic endeavor in the College and the community. Through its curriculum, members of the College community and other members of the urban community explore, interpret, and apply the humanistic practices that lead to a better understanding of themselves, their environment, and their roles in the world. The Humanities Department comprises the following: Africana Studies, Latin American and Caribbean Studies, Modern Languages, Philosophy, Visual and Performing Arts, World Literature, and Humanities.

Black Studies Option

The Black Studies Option introduces students to Black Studies, a discipline focused on African centeredness and an Afrocentric frame of reference in research methodology, pedagogy, and intellectual production. Students study the intellectual heritage of people of African descent with complementary goals of raising Black consciousness, generating emancipatory knowledge, and contributing to the edifice of a quality education. Hence, students will engage in interdisciplinary inquiry with a wide array of courses and student-centered extracurricular programming hosted by student clubs such as the Black Student Union, the Hip-Hop Club and the Capoeira Club. This Option can conform to any future career and academic plans of study in fields such as history, law, anthropology, art, government, international relations, education, policy, health, literature, sports, music, and beyond. Ultimately, the Black Studies Option prepares students to succeed professionally and excel academically; and transfer to 4-year CUNY institutions and other senior colleges.

Theater Option

The Theater Option within the VPA Unit provides students majoring in Liberal Arts with the skills and knowledge necessary to begin a career in the theater. The Option recognizes that theater is a combination of different arts, from writing and designing to performing and directing. This Option provides a well-grounded introduction to all the components that make theater such an exciting and creative art form. Students can enroll in a series of classes designed to lay the foundation for careers in theater, including working on a variety of fully-produced plays and appreciating the various artistic aspects of theater. Field trips to Broadway and Off-Broadway plays are part of course offerings.

Art History Option

The Art History Option supports students interested in the history of creative expression. This Option is for students who are interested in the history of art and visual culture and who want to explore the world of images and what they mean. It is a strong basis for the pursuit of further study in art history or any of the humanities disciplines at a four-year institution and beyond. Successful completion will help prepare students for career paths that rely on the ability to have visual image literacy such as advertising, marketing, merchandising, social media, and creative direction.

NOTE: If student has already taken a course in this category as part of their Common Core or Flexible Core course of study, the student could complete an additional course in this category.

Studio Art Option

The Studio Art Option supports students interested in creative expression. It allows the student to discover, explore, and refine their own creative abilities through a selection of courses designed to give a free reign to creativity in a supportive environment that provides important feedback and instruction. Students will develop and refine skills that will be transferrable to the study of studio practice at four-year institutions and beyond. Successful completion will prepare students for careers for which the ability to communicate visually is key, such as illustration, design, or production.

NOTE: If student has already taken a course in this category as part of their Common Core or Flexible Core course of study, the student could complete an additional course in this category.

Latina/o, Latin-American, and Caribbean Studies Option

The Latina/o, Latin American, and Caribbean Studies Option offers students the opportunity to critically engage the histories and cultures of the people of the Caribbean, Latin America, and their diasporas in the United States throughout the centuries. It consists of an interdisciplinary course of study through which students develop critical thinking, reading, and writing skills applicable across disciplines such as History, Literature and Cultural Studies, Anthropology, Sociology, or Political Science. This interdisciplinary knowledge constitutes an invaluable career tool for students pursuing jobs as teachers, lawyers and paralegals, social workers, managers of cultural institutions, and other positions in which they will work with and advance the plight and understanding of Latina/o and Latin American peoples. LAC Option students will also develop a solid knowledge and skill base transferrable to CUNY senior colleges in which Bachelor’s Degrees in Latina/o, Latin American, and Caribbean Studies are offered, which include John Jay College, Lehman College, Hunter College, City College, among others.

Music Option

The Music Option delivers a curriculum of music theory and practice designed to help each student develop skills in analysis, composition and ear training. It allows students to learn about music history and music in world cultures, as well as music theory. They will also develop their listening skills by recognizing different ensembles and groups of instruments including the human voice. Students interested in pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Music can easily transfer to Lehman College or any other CUNY senior college. Students will engage with known faculty musicologists and performers. They will be able to participate in the college’s dynamic programming of the Hostos Center for the Arts & Culture that features musicians from diverse backgrounds and styles. Field trips to concerts at Carnegie Hall and/or Lincoln Center are an integral part of the curriculum. Students will provide written reports of all concerts they attend. The Option provides students with the opportunity to learn first-hand what it means to work in the 21st century world music industry. Career opportunities have exploded in various fields of music and performing arts such as arts administration, music teaching, and sound production management; students can gain exposure to these professional opportunities.

Language and Cognition Department

The Department of Language and Cognition facilitates the acquisition of English language and academic skills within a sequential program of academic content-based ESL instruction. It seeks to help students to acquire reading and writing skills that satisfy university requirements and to prepare for success in the college's academic programs. The department also offers courses in Linguistics.

Language, Society and Culture Option

Linguistics is the study of language and communication and draws upon knowledge from psychology, education, sociology, political science, anthropology, history, computer science, artificial intelligence, and media studies. Linguists study all aspects of language and how these are used for successful communication and optimal academic development. Topics include how children acquire language, how language and culture influence our interactions with others and how political and social power shapes attitudes to language. Linguistics is a field that is constantly growing. Linguistics students can pursue majors in education, ESL, speech pathology, and library/information science. Knowledge of linguistics has also become closely associated with careers in health, business, law, criminal justice, social work, computer science, government, advertising, and the media.

Liberal Arts and Science

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