Social Foundations Program
The Social Foundations program applies the disciplinary perspectives of humanities and social sciences to address critical problems facing education and society, with the goal of improving equity in educational access and outcomes. The program’s teaching and research mission focus on the complex relationship between education, culture, and society in local, national, and global contexts. The program explores policies and practices from historical and contemporary perspectives that address structural inequality and transform educational institutions. The program serves multiple undergraduate and graduate programs and offers a Graduate Certificate (Interdisciplinary Perspectives in Global Education), an Undergraduate Minor (Global Studies in Education), and a study abroad program.
What you will learn
Students explore how history, culture, policy, and social structures shape education locally and globally. The program builds skills in critical thinking, research, and analysis, with a focus on systems-level analysis, social justice focused outcomes, and the study of diverse educational approaches.
Career Opportunities
- Education policy analyst
- Nonprofit or community program coordinator
- K–12 or higher education administrator
- Curriculum or program developer
- Education researcher
- Global or international education specialist
- Study abroad or global program coordinator
What to Expect
Social Foundations courses are integrated across undergraduate and graduate programs within the College of Education, including offerings in the Enhanced General Education Curriculum. Students can expect exposure to key courses such as Introduction to the Teaching Profession, Schools and Society, and Sociopolitical Foundations of Education, and International and Comparative Education. The program also offers a unique study abroad experience in Barranquilla, Colombia, focused on social justice, peace, and pedagogy.
Contact Us
Have questions or want to learn more about the Social Foundations Program? Connect with our team to explore program options, courses, and opportunities. We’re here to help you take the next step.
Lauren B. Braunstein, Ph.D. - Program Coordinator
isaacl@usf.edu
813-974-8105
