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Department of Social Sciences and Education

Shape Lives, Strengthen Communities, and Build a Better Future

The Department of Social Sciences and Education brings together the fields of study of education, criminal justice, health, human services, psychology, and social sciences to prepare students to design solutions, strengthen communities, and create meaningful change.

Explore Our Programs

Students learn from accomplished faculty with real-world experience and gain applied skills through field experiences, service learning, internships, research, and community engagement. Graduates leave prepared for careers, graduate study, and leadership roles with strong foundations in critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving.

Education major Jessica Goodwin standing in front of a classroom of students teaching.

Education

Build the future of education through our Prekindergarten Education, Primary Education, and Regional Primary Education Cohort programs. Combining classroom learning with hands-on field experiences, you’ll develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to support children’s growth while designing meaningful learning experiences that shape the next generation. Students may also take advantage of the Oxford relocation option, completing the first phase of their degree at Miami University Regionals before transitioning to the Oxford campus to finish their bachelor’s degree and access expanded opportunities, resources, and experiences.

Associate Professor of Psychological Science Barbara Oswald showing a student the parts of the brain during a lab.

Psychological Science

Use research and behavioral science to design solutions that improve workplaces, communities, and lives through the Psychological Science program. Students develop skills in research, critical thinking, data analysis, and communication while gaining insight into how people think, learn, and interact. The program provides a strong foundation for careers in a variety of fields as well as graduate and professional study. Available fully online or through a combination of online and in-person courses at our Hamilton campus.

A group of police officers walking together.

Criminal Justice

Examine and improve the systems that promote justice and public safety through applied learning and community partnerships through the Criminal Justice programs. Whether you choose an associate or bachelor's degree, you'll gain a strong foundation in the criminal justice system through a blend of classroom learning and real-world experiences. Available fully online or through a combination of online and in-person courses at our Hamilton campus.
Big Brother Big Sisters director talking with another staff member

Social Work

Prepare to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities through the Social Work program. Through hands-on learning and a curriculum grounded in ethics, advocacy, and social justice, students gain the knowledge and practical skills needed for careers in social services, healthcare, community organizations, and related fields. 

Students can also expand their career opportunities by pairing Social Work with a degree in Criminal Justice or Psychological Science, creating a strong interdisciplinary foundation for careers in human services, mental health, community advocacy, and justice-related professions.

Build a Future that Creates an Impact

Where Future Educators Learn by Doing.

Understanding People. Creating Better Outcomes.

Student Spotlights

Taylor Whitton and Madison Roberts standing in front of their poster research at the AURCO conference.

Taylor Whitton '26

Major: Pyschological Science

"Through applied courses, networking opportunities, and research, I explored and honed my interests along the way."

Anusha Gurung

Anusha Gurung '29

Major: Social Work

"Social work is a major that allows me to help people in various ways, whether it’s through one-on-one counseling, welfare services, disability advocacy, or whatever else."

Hazel Moon smiling standing in the center of her classroom.

Hazel Moon

Major: Primary Education

"I grew up from a young age taught to help others, even when you don’t have a lot yourself. Helping others has really stuck with me."

Department of Social Sciences and Education

Hamilton Campus, Phelps Hall 103
1601 University Blvd.
Hamilton, OH 45011