Social Relations and Policy Major

The Social Relations and Policy major explores the domain of public issues that are especially affected by relations among groups. The field is explicitly historical and comparative, looking at social relations in the United States and internationally, over time. Courses focus on the sociology, history, and politics of intergroup relations, paying close attention to the interplay of such factors as class, race, ethnicity, sex/gender, religious belief and national identity. The program uses the study of social relations as a way to cultivate reasoning, methodological and analytical skills and the capacities for empathetic observation, normative judgment and effective problem solving.

The sophomore sequence provides the conceptual, methodological and substantive bases for upper division work by introducing students to classical and contemporary social theory and comparative social history, and to quantitative and qualitative methodologies. The junior level builds on these skills to assess, in depth, a set of social problems and policy solutions. A senior seminar provides an opportunity to synthesize course work and undertake original research. Students also select from a broad range of electives to develop their expertise and understanding including opportunities for more international and comparative work, greater political analysis, and deeper understanding of particular forms of social relations. A related area requirement is broadly constructed to shape the major in a way that is responsive to individual interests and academic purpose.

James Madison College, a residential college at Michigan State University, offers world-class public affairs and public policy programs

James Madison College provides a liberal education in public affairs for undergraduates. Our curriculum cultivates in our students skills of rigorous thought, lucid prose writing, and articulate speech. Our courses draw insight from various social sciences and related fields, including political science, economics, literature, sociology, philosophy, and history. The multi-disciplinary perspective and focus on applied social science prepares students to face real world challenges with maturity, creativity, and responsibility.