Social Sciences (aka SOSC, pronounced as "soh-sh") sequences introduce fundamental questions and theories from the Social Sciences that enhance our understanding of important issues facing the world. Some sequences focus on classic texts, others on substantive fields of inquiry or research methodologies, but all explore how the social sciences formulate questions and inquire into the nature of social life through acts of imagination as well as through systematic analysis. The social science core requires active engagement in small seminars, close reading, and analytic writing; some sequences may also include lectures.
All students complete this requirement by taking a year-long (three-quarter) SOSC sequence, beginning in Autumn quarter. In general, SOSC sequences aren’t designed to be foundational to any specific major. The Social Science sequence is encouraged in the second year after students have completed the Humanities sequence. Transfer students may enroll in SOSC during their first year in the College.
Read the descriptions here and review the example syllabi here to learn more about each option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Review the common questions students have regarding the Social Science Core requirement.
No, not unless you are a transfer student. First-year students will complete their Humanities sequence in their first year as a foundation to continue SOSC in their second year (or later if necessary).
The sequence structure allows courses to build on each other quarter-to-quarter and creates a cohort among students in the class. As such, the requirements must be completed with courses from a single sequence, and those courses must be taken in consecutive quarters. Thus, students cannot jump between SOSC sequences.
The Social Science sequence tends to be one of the most rewarding and enjoyable experiences for our students. Choosing the "right" one will largely depend on your interests and goals. Review these short flyers describing each sequence here to better understand the differences.
You can also watch informative videos and review example syllabi from each sequence here.