Humanities and Social Sciences Programs | SIU

Humanities and Social Sciences

Africana Studies

Africana Studies is an interdisciplinary degree that examines the histories, political and cultural movements, institutions, economies, and identities of Africans and the African diaspora. Africa's own overlapping cultures along with the disbursement of African people offer a comprehensive exploration.

Anthropology

Anthropologists analyze and study all aspects of humanity throughout the world. At SIU, our program encompasses the four aspects - modern human societies (Socio-cultural Anthropology), past human societies (Archaeology), human communication (Linguistic Anthropology), and human and primate biology (Biological Anthropology).

Creative Writing

Creative writers learn techniques to compose and develop works of poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. These innovative skills teach students to confidently accept and work through challenges by expanding their outlook. Graduates are prepared for careers including journalism, business, entertainment, and government.

Criminology and Criminal Justice

A degree in CCJ is a starting point for any criminal justice-related career. We offer a Bachelor of Arts degree, a CCJ minor and a Forensic Science minor, as well as Master of Arts and a Ph.D. degree.  Join one of the biggest programs on campus, enjoy the diversity we offer, and study with faculty who bring real-world experience to the classroom. Earn your bachelor’s degree online, and learn with the same curriculum as on campus.

English

The study of literature and written communication help develop critical analysis, logical thinking, creative interpretation, and cultural awareness. English majors build a solid foundation in communication, research, and humanities. These skills are an asset for any profession.

History

Studying the past teaches us valuable lessons about the present and future. Students are encouraged to look beyond historical facts and question the surrounding circumstances. Graduates emerge with a well-rounded education perfect for a wide range of careers.

Languages, Cultures, International Studies

This program prepares students to understand and collaborate with our global society. Students learn modern and classical languages and gain an understanding of cultural contexts throughout the world. Our faculty is versed in literature, linguistics, pedagogy, philosophy, and foreign cultures.

Linguistics

Linguistics is the study of language. Students explore the sounds of language, word construction, sentence structure, and meaning. Linguists understand how language is learned and processed mentally, how it is used in socio-cultural contexts, and how it changes over time.

Philosophy

Philosophy is the study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence. At SIU, students explore logic, ethics, metaphysics, political and legal philosophy, the philosophy of science, the philosophy of technology, the history of philosophy, and the philosophy of religion.

Sociology

Sociology is the intricate study of human behavior, its social consequences, social changes, and social life. Topics include criminology, delinquency, deviance, identity, marriage and family, race/ethnic relations, religion, sex, gender roles, social movements, social thought, and victimology.

Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

Teaching English to non-English speakers involves a thorough understanding of the English language. Students learn teaching techniques, study different cultures, their customs, and distinct learning styles. Graduates are prepared for exciting careers in the United States and abroad.

University Studies 

This program allows students to build their own bachelor of arts or bachelor of sciences degree without a formal, declared major. Through the University Studies program, an advisor helps students create a custom degree based on their specific needs and interests.

Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies

This in-depth program explores gender and sexuality in global societies past and present. While it focuses on women's experiences, including race, class, and culture, it also naturally relates to broader themes such as masculinity, queer theory, and feminist theory.