Social and Decision Sciences is an interdisciplinary department whose faculty represent a wide variety of interests, experience and disciplines, including political science, sociology, organizational theory, economics, psychology, information systems, decision sciences and public policy. The multidisciplinary character of the department provides a unique opportunity for innovative research. As this list indicates, members of the department stress the development of theories of social phenomena that do not always fit neatly into traditional disciplinary boundaries. There is a complementary emphasis on empirical testing of theory, leading to a common concern with methodology. There is also a common focus on public policy and much of the research in the department has important and direct public policy implications.
Undergraduates often work as research assistants for many faculty members.
If you have a specific research interest, you should contact the faculty member with the appropriate expertise and interest, or discuss your interests with a departmental advisor. If you are unsure of which member to contact, you should see Marge Melenyzer, Undergraduate Affairs Coordinator for the Department.