The Labor Studies Program attracts students interested in how our lives are shaped by work and its results. Starting from the practical problems of work, workers and their organizations, labor students investigate the underlying economic, political, and cultural forces. Drawing on the full range of social science and other disciplines, students develop practical and analytical skills needed in working with labor, government, and other organizations in the labor field. Labor Studies courses combine broad perspectives with specific skills. Introductory courses provide a general knowledge about work, workers, and their organizations.
Electives enable students to examine areas in greater depth.
In these and other problems, students are encouraged to do first-hand investigation by working directly with those involved. Labor Studies instructors combine the analytical and the practical in their courses. Both regular SFSU faculty and practitioners with labor, government, and other organizations bring together experience for broad perspectives and expertise for specific skills. With the Labor Studies Advisory Board of unionists and others active in the Bay Area labor scene, instructors develop and teach courses reflecting immediate concerns and future goals. Instructors and Advisory Board help students bridge the gap between university and the labor scene.