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 Civic & Community Engagement (3 credits)

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

3. PSP 302 – Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Civic & Community Engagement (3 credits)

4. PSP 303 – Leadership through Community Organizing (3 credits)

5. PSP 321 – Community-Engaged Research  (4 credits)

7. PSP 450 – Practicum (3 credits)

The Capstone Experience (one semesters, 3 credits)

8. PSP 480- Major Capstone

Three Course Concentration

In consultation with their faculty advisor, students design a three-course (9-credit) PSP concentration centered on a public, civic, or social justice issue they are passionate about. Concentrations should reflect the key concepts, themes, theories, and methods of the PSP major. Students may draw on PSP electives, courses from other departments, or study abroad coursework to shape their concentration. At least one course must be a PSP elective. No more than one course may be counted toward both the PSP concentration and any other declared major or minor, regardless of the number of majors or minors a student pursues. 

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