Study human behavior and systems.
The Social Sciences at CCBC include a dynamic group of disciplines which explore the intricacies of human societies, cultures and systems.
Through academic inquiry and a commitment to understanding the complexities of our world, our dedicated faculty empower you to engage with the past, present and future.
Anthropology is the study of humanity, in which you will study human origins, behaviors and what it means to be human. In this program, available on campus and fully-online, you will learn about the four fields of anthropology – cultural anthropology, biological/physical anthropology, archaeology and linguistics – and the relationship of anthropology to the other social sciences. Coursework weaves in the significance of cultural diversity as you evaluate examples of applied anthropology and use anthropological knowledge to analyze and address social problems.
Economics is a social science focused on the economy and economic activities. In this major, you will study economic systems and how individuals and organizations produce and exchange goods. You'll learn to plot and interpret quantitative data in graphs and tables, explain the market forces of supply and demand and much more.
This program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
The Global Studies Certificate (16-18 credits) provides a broad understanding of interdisciplinary contemporary global issues. You'll focus on intercultural communication skills and gain the cultural and global knowledge necessary to live productively in intercultural work environments and communities. Study abroad opportunities enable the experience and practice necessary to work in the ever-changing global economy.
History is our story — the story of humans. It examines the written records of all major social, cultural, political and economic events of our past. In this program, available on campus and fully-online, you will study the main focus areas of history and the relationship of history to the other social sciences. By analyzing cultural diversity and its role in history, you will better understand the contributions of different ethnic and cultural groups to U.S. and world societies. History majors gain the ability to think critically about contemporary historical issues, events and the ideologies that shape current public issues.
The Native American Studies program provides a broad foundation in Indigenous cultures and current events. You'll study Native American histories, religions, literature, arts and politics to gain greater knowledge and respect for Indigenous nations while fostering socially responsible research.
Political science is devoted to understanding systems of government, political activity and events. You'll examine the practice of politics and power locally, nationally and on the international stage to learn the critical role that politics plays in the shaping of our government, our laws and our society. Graduates are prepared and trained to lead in the private, public or non-profit sectors with a focus on political science in careers such as legislative aide, policy analyst, public relations specialist, journalist, legal assistant, community outreach coordinator, political campaign staff, researcher and more.
The study of sociology explores individual human interactions, how societies are built and maintained and global social processes. You will seek to answer “why people do what they do” by analyzing your own personal experiences through a sociological lens. You'll also study the effect that social forces and social institutions have on individual and group behavior and understand how structural inequalities based on age, race, class, gender and other social constructions influence power, property and prestige. Graduates can pursue careers in social welfare and social change or pursue more advanced degrees in the social sciences.
An intensive interdisciplinary cultural science, the Women’s Studies program challenges students to write well, think critically and analyze women’s issues effectively. You will explore gender and the way it intersects with race, ethnicity, class, age and sexuality while analyzing current problems that women face in the areas of employment, the family, domestic violence, health and the legal system.
More than half of the world’s population are women, so understanding their experiences, history, needs and abilities is an asset if you are considering careers in education, social service, government, business, law, the ministry, journalism, health occupations or child care.
Clara Weaver (General Studies major with Global Studies Certificate) was one of several students who contributed to the CCBC Invisible History website in partnership with the University of Maryland Baltimore County.
Using historic photographs and other artifacts, students explored the lives and legacies of the people who built the Catonsville community and surrounding area, including enslaved people and other laborers whose contributions had gone unacknowledged.
Department Chair, Social Sciences