240322aAcademic007.CR2
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

1

UC hosts governors for bipartisan conversation

Event: October 21, 2025 1:30 PM

The University of Cincinnati welcomes Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear for a conversation on policy and leadership. The discussion, titled "Across the River and Across the Aisle," will be moderated by former U.S. Sen. Rob Portman and is being sponsored by the Portman Center for Policy Solutions.

2

Conference examines future of disability studies

Event: October 9, 2025 4:10 PM

The New Directions in Disability Studies Conference 2025 gives UC affiliates and the Cincinnati community an opportunity to engage with emerging research, thoughtful discussions and practices shaping the future of disability studies. The two-day event will be at the Edwards Center on UC’s Uptown Campus bringing together students, scholars, faculty, and community members. Put on by a range of centers and colleges at UC, this conference highlights how disability studies continue to evolve and reflect the world around us, emphasizing lived experiences and academic practices.

3

Politics follow you on the road

October 6, 2025

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati found that drivers were far more likely to honk after being cut off by a vehicle bearing a political bumper sticker, particularly one for the opposing political party.

4

Science Harvest connects kids with science, one pollinator at a...

October 3, 2025

Walking up to Science Harvest’s booth at the Northside Farmers Market, surrounding their inviting, sparkly craft table, are nothing but kids with smiles. On closer look, the cut-out paper bugs and “pollen” (mac and cheese powder), reveal themselves. Engaging with the kids is Kate Nicole Hoffman, researcher with UCs Center for Public Engagement with Science (PEWS), as she explains to them how pollination works. Science Harvest’s mission is an extension the mission for PEWS, which is to educate the public on science-related topics to benefit everyone. This makes their weekly appearance at the family-friendly Northside Farmers market a perfect match.

5

UC joins national mental health initiative for college students

September 29, 2025

The University of Cincinnati has joined a national program aimed at strengthening mental health support for college students, becoming an official JED Campus as part of the university’s long-standing commitment to supporting student well-being. The JED Campus program, developed by the nonprofit Jed Foundation, helps colleges and universities evaluate and enhance their mental health, substance misuse, and suicide prevention efforts. The initiative guides schools through a four-year strategic process to build comprehensive systems of care.

Debug Query for this

Social Sciences in the News

3

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.

4

How redrawing congressional districts can affect results

September 8, 2025

Spectrum News talks to UC Professor David Niven about Ohio's congressional map which Republicans drew to give themselves the best chance of winning more seats. Ohio voters rejected a ballot measure to have an independent commission draw the voting map.

6

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.

Debug Query for this