Welcome to the

Division of Social Sciences

Our focus is the study of human relationships and society. As global economic and political changes transform the world around us, social scientists are tackling some of society's most stubborn challenges, from racism, environmental degradation, and economic inequity to the opportunities of educational reform, globalization, and new technologies.

Our nine departments offer more than 35 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including many that are interdisciplinary collaborations. Students are offered a comprehensive and rigorous education that prepares them for productive careers and further academic pursuits. Our faculty members are conducting leading-edge research in their fields, frequently working with students in research clusters linking departments and our research centers. A recent study ranked the Division of Social Sciences at UCSC 1st in the nation among public universities for the quality of its research productivity.

In addition, College Nine and College Ten are formally part of the Division of Social Sciences. College Nine's theme is international and global perspectives and College Ten's theme is social justice and community. Both colleges are an important part of the division's undergraduate educational mission.

Click here for a one-page information sheet about our division.