About the Major

About the Major

Public and Community Service Studies (PSP) offers an interdisciplinary curriculum focused on solving real-world problems. PSP students work closely with faculty and community partners to research and address complex issues and then reflect on this shared work to develop the leadership skills necessary for making positive social change. The department’s innovative curriculum, the first of its kind in the country, continues to make it a pioneer and leader in community engaged, experiential learning.

PSP offers introductory courses that are open to all students, as well as major and minor courses that cover central themes such as rebuilding democratic communities, re-thinking effective service, and organizing for social justice. The academic program is built on a collaborative teaching model with all of the courses integrating community engaged learning in an intentional way. With a dynamic group of faculty and community partners, students are asked to be co-creators of their learning. Students engage in a diverse range of community work including direct service, community organizing, community development, and public policy. In the process, students develop 21st century skills like public speaking, community building, working across cultural boundaries, organizational development, policy analysis, and collaborative research.

Required Courses

1. PSP 101 – Introduction to Service in Democratic Communities  (3 credits)

2. PSP 102 – Foundations of Community Partnership  (3 credits)

3. Cultural Diversity/Cultural Boundaries in Community Service
Options: PSP 302 Diversity, Community, and Service or approved substitute (3 credits)

4. PSP 303 – Community Organizing (3 credits)

5. PSP 320 – Perspectives on Best Practices in Community Engagement (3 credits)

6. PSP 321 – Community Engaged Research  (3 credits)

7. PSP 450 – Internship in Community Service Service (3 credits)

The Capstone Experience (two semesters, 6 credits)

8. PSP 480- Capstone Seminar : Fall Semester

9. PSP 481- Capstone Seminar: Spring Semester

Thematic Concentration

Students design a self-selected three-course track connected to the study of public and community service. Tracks are designed in consultation with the academic advisor and department chair, and are organized around topics of interest such as “youth development,” “environmental sustainability,” or “nonprofit management.”  Courses from the track can be designated PSP courses or courses taken in other departments at the College or during study abroad.

Some examples include tracks in public administration, politics, the environment, women’s studies, public policy, community health, etc.

For a full listing of course descriptions and degree requirements, please see the course catalog.