Social, Cultural and Justice Studies
Welcome to the Department of Social, Cultural and Justice Studies!
We offer undergraduate B.A. or B.S. degrees in Anthropology, a minor in Geography, a B.S. in Sociology, and a B.S. in Criminal Justice. The department also offers a graduate program (M.S.) in Criminal Justice.
Anthropology, Criminal Justice, and Sociology are sister disciplines as they each deal with different aspects of human behavior. Geography is often paired with Anthropology because an understanding of our world from cultural and physical perspectives is integral to studying people. In addition, many social scientists (including faculty in this department) use geographic information systems (G.I.S.) to map and record human activity and behavior. This department is extremely multidisciplinary which is essential to the development of constructive interactions in a global economy and world.
Mission Statement
Our programs prepare students for professional and personal success in the context of a strong liberal arts education. We are committed to coursework that is grounded in theory, research, and community engagement to help students prepare for their careers in their respective fields. Emphasis is placed on intellectual, experiential, critical thinking, and problem solving abilities that will prepare our students to become ethically informed, culturally sensitive, engaged scholars who are able to address global, national, regional, and local challenges. Students and their futures are our first priority.
Department News
Project studies how to get public transportation into neighborhoods
UTC's Chandra Ward is part of a $3.9 million project to study the Chattanooga transit system.
‘Education About Asia’ hits a quarter century of publication
Along with his work at UTC, Lucien Ellington also serves as vice chairman of the board for the Chattanooga Charter School of Excellence.
Dealing with drug abuse in Tennessee’s rural communities
They cried as they talked about their drug addictions, tears flowing as they waded through their guilt at the pain and turmoil they had caused their families and friends. They cried as they confronted the waste they’d made of their lives and relived some of the horrific childhood neglect and physical abuse that contributed to their initial drug use. But when they were told they could stop talking, could…
Measuring success: 18 hours a semester, member of volleyball team, 3.6 GPA
When your nickname is “Dani Pants,” you’re showing the world you can laugh at yourself.
Vic Bumphus, faculty member for 17 years, passes away
Victor W. Bumphus passed away on May 31.