life. experience. CULTURE & COMMUNICATION
THE DEPARTMENT OF
CULTURE & COMMUNICATION
DEGREES OFFERED ANTHROPOLOGY BA and minor COMMUNICATION Concentrations and minors in: Corporate and Public Relations – BA, BS Global Journalism – BA
If you’re the kind of person who looks to
Technical and Science Communication – BS
understand the real world around you, then
CRIMINAL JUSTICE BS and minors in
the Department of Culture and Communi-
Computer Crime
cation is your promised land.
Criminal Justice
Become an Anthropology major and you’ll broaden your understanding of different cultures and ways of life. Study Sociology and you’ll explore the behavior of individuals and groups, and learn to critically examine societal “truths” often taken for granted. A degree in Communication will give you the skills necessary to navigate the increasingly complex world of news and social media. In the Criminal Justice program, you’ll delve into the worlds of crime and criminology, examining topics from computer crime to forensic science to terrorism. As an Environmental Studies major you’ll work to conserve our natural resources through social, political and economic reforms. And with a minor in any of the department’s ten Modern Languages, you’ll strengthen your ability to communicate and work in a multicultural world.
Paralegal Studies
No matter what major you choose, you’ll find a home and a future in the Department of Culture and Communication at Drexel.
RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES
ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES BS and minor SOCIOLOGY BA and minor MODERN LANGUAGES Minors Only
THE DREXEL CO-OP Drexel University’s nationally recognized cooperative education program (Co-op) combines periods of full-time professional employment with periods of academic study. Students in the Department of Culture and Communication conduct Co-ops with industry leaders in a wide variety of fields. Some programs offer internships instead of Co-op. Please see individual programs for more details.
Whether you’re interested in human rights, urban policy or cybercrime, the Department offers numerous opportunities to get involved in research—often working side-by-side with your professors. This is one of the best ways to put your classroom learning into practice, and truly immerse yourself in your field of interest. The College even sponsors a Humanities Fellowship, offering 10 to 12 students the chance to conduct research over the summer—and get paid to do it.
ANTHROPOLOGY MAJOR Anthropology is the study of human beings—the cultures, traditions and daily practices that define, separate and unite us. As an Anthropology student, you’ll gain a multidisciplinary, insider’s perspective on human existence.
Department faculty have conducted extensive fieldwork all over the world—South Asia, East Africa, Indonesia, Mesoamerica, Europe and the United States.
ABOUT THE CURRICULUM The program introduces you to classical work in anthropology, and also points to new directions in the field. You’ll build a strong background in quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques, as well as in written communication skills, as you learn to to express your ideas intelligently and in your own unique voice. Community research courses and internships will give you practical, firsthand experience in anthropological fieldwork.
INTERNSHIP OPTIONS Over the last five years, anthropology majors have undertaken a variety of internships, both local and international. SAMPLE INTERNSHIPS Intern at University of Pennsylvania Archaeology and Anthropology Museum English teacher in Limon, Costa Rica Fieldwork on tourism in Hawaii
COOL COURSES CULTURE AND THE ENVIRONMENT This course explores the interplay between culture and the environment by examining both ethnographic accounts from around the world and archaeological materials from the last 14,000 years. ANTHROPOLOGY OF CYBERSPACE Students examine the ways the Internet and new media have changed how we think about space and time, as well as how we work and engage in leisure activities. WORLDVIEW: SCIENCE, RELIGION AND MAGIC Examines anthropological and archaeological evidence of the worldviews of non-literate people, as shown in the practice of ceremony, magic, sorcery and witchcraft, and the role of shamans and priests.
CAREERS IN ANTHROPOLOGY Seventy percent of anthropology graduates have continued their studies at the graduate level in related fields: cultural anthropology, Mesoamerican archaeology, marine archaeology, museum studies, public health, law, speech pathology, sociology, international relations and communications. Anthropology graduates have begun careers in anthropology, ethnography and social services, among others.
Upon graduation, Drexel Anthropology undergraduates will have the skills necessary for jobs that other students only get through graduate training.
The Anthropology program at Drexel is a small, close-knit group, where you’ll get to know your fellow students and your professors. In many cases, you’ll have the opportunity to work directly with faculty on research projects, gaining valuable insight into the nature of ethnographic fieldwork while expanding your understanding of various cultures.
The ability to communicate clearly and with relevant purpose is an invaluable skill, especially in today’s everchanging media landscape. As a Communication major, you’ll become an expert communicator in a wide variety of media and with any audience. You’ll gain broad theoretical knowledge and practical, hands-on experience as you work toward a future in marketing, journalism and many other fascinating careers. This major also includes courses that draw upon the skills and experience of the anthropology and sociology disciplines. This multidisciplinary focus strengthens your skills and prepares you to succeed in a culturally-diverse world, where ideas and technology change constantly.
CO-OP OPTIONS 53 40 Y E A R CO - O P Y E A R CO-OP
41
YEAR CO-OP
Communication majors have completed Co-ops with companies like Comcast, the Philadelphia Flyers, Eagles and 76ers, Exelon Corporation, GlaxoSmithKline, a number of TV stations, newspapers and magazines, as well as many other businesses and organizations.
STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS DREXEL PUBLIC RELATIONS STUDENT SOCIETY OF AMERICA PRSSA Students plan and participate in various special events for the public and Drexel University community. Members also participate in special team-building and skill-building events. 33RD STREET PUBLIC RELATIONS Drexel PRSSA’s independent, student-run public relations firm, 33rd Street PR, offers a wide array of pro-bono communication services to both professional clients and Drexel University student organizations.
COOL COURSES SPORTS JOURNALISM Students explore and participate in the practice of covering sports in the news. CAMPAIGNS FOR HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT This course explores theories and practical aspects of environmental and health campaigns and communitybased social marketing campaigns. THE CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE OF FAME Explore your own perceptions of fame, dissect famerelated experiences and analyze how the mass media perpetuates fame.
CAREERS IN COMMUNICATION Drexel Communication graduates enjoy successful careers in print and broadcast journalism, public relations, media relations, corporate communications and many other fields. The Communication program also gives you the skills you’ll need for graduate study in communication, and for professional degrees in areas such as law and education.
“My coursework assisted me during my Co-ops. Classes became much more valuable when I was able to relate them to real life experience in the event planning and marketing fields.” – Stephanie Takach, B.S. Communication, 2012
COMMUNICATION MAJOR
CRIMINAL JUSTICE MAJOR As a Drexel Criminal Justice major, you’ll investigate the darkest corners of cybercrime, environmental crime, terrorism, forensic science and restorative justice. You’ll take advantage of Drexel’s strengths in philosophy, psychology, political science, biology, chemistry, legal studies and computer science. Your professors will be current or former criminal justice experts who teach from experience and are well acquainted with the most recent scientific developments and technologies, as well as legal scholarship. Small classes will allow you to work closely with your professors, while internships will supplement your classroom knowledge with relevant hands-on experience.
ABOUT THE CURRICULUM The Criminal Justice program gives you a thorough understanding of the scientific research into crime, criminal behavior, penology and criminal law. Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared for upper level employment at the local, state and federal level, or for additional graduate study in criminal justice, law and related programs.
INTERNSHIP OPTIONS
Though not required, a Criminal Justice internship is strongly recommended. Eligible students can choose to intern during the summers following their sophomore and junior years. These internships provide you with professional experience in criminal justice agencies, government and private law firms, community agencies or nonprofit organizations.
COOL COURSES CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION Taught by a former chief inspector, this course reveals fascinating tips for solving high-profile crimes. TERRORISM Explore the dark world of terrorism with a professional who tracks and arrests terrorists for a living. FORENSIC SCIENCE AND FORENSIC DNA ANALYSIS Learn today’s most cutting-edge forensic science and technology from an internationally-known forensic expert.
CRIMINAL JUSTICE STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS AND ACTIVITIES ALPHA PHI SIGMA National Criminal Justice Honor Society Get involved in national networking and scholarship opportunities, prizes, paper presentations and more. Open to any criminal justice student with a GPA of 3.2 or higher. THE FORENSIC SCIENCE CLUB This campus-based student group meets twice monthly, often with forensic science professionals as guest speakers, to discuss the latest techniques and findings. Members are also invited to the Vidocq Society to join a select group of professionals working to solve cold cases.
CAREERS IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE Graduates of the Criminal Justice program have found employment with the following organizations: the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Border Patrol, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (BATFE), Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), Immigration and Custom Enforcement, Juvenile Court, United States Marshal Service and government and private law firms.
ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES MAJOR So you want to save the world? Perfect. So do we. And in Drexel’s Environmental Studies program, you’ll learn exactly how air and water pollution, toxic chemicals, urban sprawl and unsustainable energy use affect our health and the world we live in. More importantly, you’ll gain the skills necessary to do something about it.
ABOUT THE CURRICULUM The Environmental Studies program is an interdisciplinary major designed to prepare you for employment or graduate studies in environmental policy and justice, environmental communication and urban planning. You’ll examine the complex causes and effects of these problems. And you’ll gain perspective on the social, economic and political considerations required to balance current needs with those of future generations. The program offers educational, professional and community service opportunities created by nationallyrespected faculty experts from across the University. You’ll collaborate with your professors in campus organizations such as Drexel Green, our campus sustainability initiative. Other opportunities include the Drexel Sierra Club Coalition, and collaboration on environmental sustainability efforts by the City of Philadelphia and the Delaware Valley Region.
CO-OP AND INTERNSHIP OPTIONS 53 Y E A R CO - O P
41 Y E A R CO-OP
40 YEAR CO-OP
You can choose Co-ops or internships in any government program associated with urban renewal, environmental programs or urban planning. Or you could choose to work with a private, environmental consulting firm, or a nonprofit environmental advocacy organization.
STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS STUDENTS FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE This organization addresses and explores alternatives for issues of social, environmental, political and economic injustice. The group also works with surrounding communities to unify and activate the Drexel campus.
COOL COURSES ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE Pollutants impacting human health are discussed within the contexts of poverty, race and exposure. This course examines the effects of science and law on environmental justice and movements that aim to resolve the uneven distribution of environmental hazards around the world. ENVIRONMENTAL MOVEMENTS IN AMERICA Examines, through historical and cultural perspectives, various worldviews, organizations and practices that define US environmental politics.
CAREERS IN ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES Graduates of the Environmental Studies program enjoy successful careers in public and private organizations, along with federal, state, regional, municipal or non-profit organizations. Recent employers include the Environmental Protection Agency, Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, the Pennsylvania Environmental Council and many others. Students are also prepared for graduate study in Environmental Policy, and Drexel’s MS in Public Policy.
SOCIOLOGY MAJOR
COOL COURSES SEX AND SOCIETY This course examines gender and sexuality, changing social meanings of variant sexual orientations and practices, the effect of birth-control technologies, STDs and sexual violence on sexual norms, the commodification of sex and the social control of sex.
The Sociology program is an intimate and close-knit group of students and faculty who share a strong focus on social justice, social activism and social change. You’ll receive individualized attention and support from experienced faculty, who’ll help you develop the critical academic and marketable skills that will carry you throughout your career.
SOCIOLOGY OF THE FUTURE Examines the ideas, values and methods of the world’s leading futurists (e.g. Bell, Henderson, Kahn, and Toffler). Focuses particularly on the energy challenge, the information revolution and postindustrial scenarios.
ABOUT THE CURRICULUM Because of the department’s interdisciplinary focus, Sociology students develop strong skills in critical thinking, research methods, data analysis, writing, statistics, public speaking and computer literacy. All Sociology majors take a seminar course every fall. This course helps to create a community within the major.
CO-OP OPTIONS 53
YEAR a
41
Y E A R CO-OP
40
YEAR CO-OP
URBAN SOCIOLOGY Provides an overview of the contemporary process of urban change and of key problems and policy issues. Concentrates on five concerns: the evolution of urban economics; life and culture in the city today; race, ethnicity, gender and class of urban populations; urban politics and social forces; and new directions in urban development.
CAREERS IN SOCIOLOGY Sociology graduates have gone on to advanced study in sociology and law, as well as other areas. Graduates have also found rewarding careers in social services, government agencies, higher education, corporate research, non-profit organizations, urban and community planning and market research.
“I was able to participate in the Humanities Fellowship—a program that pairs students with professors and their current research. This project gave me valuable skills, such as accomplishing tasks independently, writing concise reports and understanding research methods.”– Warren Basla, B.A. Anthropology, Sociology minor, 2011
What is culture jamming? How do people use city streets? How will American democracy fare when New York sinks under a foot of water? Was Karl Marx right about the end of capitalism? If you have an inquiring mind, a mind that asks big social questions and fearlessly treads off the beaten path, then Drexel’s Sociology major is for you.
Arabic
Chinese
French
German
Greek
Italian
Japanese
Korean
Russian
Spanish
Modern Languages at Drexel University takes a communicative approach to language learning. Students from all disciplines at the University enroll in language courses, creating a dynamic learning environment. In this multidisciplinary program, students develop language competence along with knowledge of foreign cultures. Language study also gives Drexel students access to a world of opportunities, including international study abroad programs and Co-op placements.
ABOUT THE CURRICULUM Arabic, Greek, Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Russian are oral-intensive courses that use an innovative “selfinstructional” tutorial format. These courses are limited to small groups of three to six students. French, German, Italian and Spanish courses follow a more conventional format, enrolling up to 18 students per course. The language minor is open to all Drexel students. Requirements for the language minor include: 24 credit hours of coursework beyond the first year of study, including the “thesis-direction” course Advanced-level Certification of Proficiency in the language A minor thesis written in the target language An oral defense of the thesis before a faculty committee Demonstration of research skills A Certificate of Proficiency is also available for students who have successfully passed the series of written Proficiency examinations and an extensive oral examination.
STUDY ABROAD TAIWAN Fine-tune your Mandarin language skills while participating in an exchange program with Chung Yuan Christian University in Taiwan. CRETE Learn about Greek culture and history in the Drexel summer break in Crete program. BIOKO ISLAND Study biodiversity and conservation and help protect the primates on this island in the Spanishspeaking central African country of Equatorial Guinea.
STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS ISO Italian Students Organization
“My favorite part of Drexel’s campus is that there is always something happening. There is always a varsity game or a Greek fundraiser or some type of event. It’s never boring.” – Renee Daggett, B.A. Communication, 2014
MODERN LANGUAGE MINORS
JUSA Japanese Undergraduate Student Association KSA Korean Student Association
CAREERS IN MODERN LANGUAGES Fluent understanding of a foreign language is a benefit to individuals in a wide variety of professional fields including anthropology, education, international business, law, politics and medicine.
1- 800-2-DREXEL 215-895-1805
coas@drexel.edu www.drexel.edu/coas
Department of Culture and Communication 215-895-2455 ccdept@drexel.edu www.drexel.edu/culturecomm/