Nonprofit Leadership

Nonprofit Leadership

Degree Type

Bachelor of Science

About

Put your advocacy to work—channel your passion to address issues that matter to you.

Introduction

There are so many challenges facing our world today, but the good news is that there are just as many, if not more, organizations working to solve them. Organizations large and small are coming together to collaborate, innovate, and make space for diverse and creative minds to lead us to a better and brighter future. And where there is need, there is always opportunity to help.

Nonprofit organizations aren’t in it for the money. Instead of pursuing a profit, nonprofit leaders and groups are leading social change, mobilizing voices, and providing a variety of critical services beyond the scope of government.

You can also minor in Nonprofit Management and Youth Development.

Learn how to:

  • Apply knowledge of methods, vocabulary, and concepts of nonprofit leadership
  • Use technology to access, capture, analyze, and report data and literature
  • Understand and apply research methods to social issues and policy discussions
  • Critically analyze nonprofit issues within larger historical and global contexts
  • Demonstrate and apply knowledge and skills to research and community engagement efforts
Students studying

750+ Course Options

The Coppin State University Academic Catalog has a wide variety of skill-building courses designed to inspire and prepare you to be in-demand professionals and transformational leaders.

Advocacy Through Service

We designed our nonprofit leadership program to help you develop knowledge and skills essential to making lasting societal impact in the nonprofit sector. Learn how philanthropy and nonprofit organizations mobilize, lead, and serve communities.

Students have opportunities to get hands-on experience outside the classroom including field trips, observations, our Nonprofit Alliance Program, as well as conferences, meetings, workshops, seminars, and retreats.

Our strong partnerships with local community agencies mean our students have access to advisory leadership, placement opportunities, potential employment, community service, visiting lecturers, and other resources.

There is more information about major requirements in the Program Requirements section on this page.

Nonprofit Leadership Alliance

The Nonprofit Leadership Alliance is a national nonprofit organization that works in conjunction with national partners, and educational institutions to prepare qualified professionals to strengthen the social services workforce and sector. In addition, the Alliance offers the only national nonprofit certification, the Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP).

The Alliance has partnered with Coppin to make this certification available to students pursuing a major and minor in nonprofit leadership.

Nonprofit Leadership Alliance Club

The Nonprofit Leadership Alliance Club is an opportunity for Coppin students to contribute to the University's longstanding legacy of community development and service. Through the club and related activities, students and graduates can take on and improve issues directly affecting our local, urban communities and the world at large.

Program Requirements

To graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Nonprofit Leadership, students must complete 120 credit hours. These credit hours split between General Education Requirements (GERs), foundation and core courses, as well as electives. Each section explains the range of course offerings and requirements.

Core Courses (30 credits)

CourseCreditsName
SOSC 3403Introduction to Nonprofit Leadership
SOCI 4113Special Topics: Diversity, Philanthropy, and Fundraising
MGMT 3603Human Relations and Organizational Behavior
MGMT 4603Not-For-Profit Management
MKTG 3103Principles of Marketing

POSC 302

or

SOSC 304

3

 

3

State and Local Government

 

Introduction to Public Administration

SOCI 301

or

SOCI 406

3

 

3

Community Organization

 

Sociology of the City

SOCI 4093Nonprofit Leadership Internship I
MGMT 4863Nonprofit Leadership Internship II
MNSC 4833Co-op Field Placement (Internship II)

SOSC 407

or

SOSC 430

3

 

3

Social Research Methods

 

Social Science Applications

Sample Degree Plan

This plan is only for example purposes. Your academic journey may be slightly different from another student’s journey, so be sure to always communicate with your academic advisor before finalizing your course schedule.

Fall Semester (16 credits)

Course credits name
ENGL 101 3 English Composition I
SOSC 200 3 Introduction to Social Science
MATH 125 3 Math for Liberal Arts
ORIE 101 1 Freshman Seminar
HIST 205 3 African American History I
IDIS 102 3 Music and Dance

Spring Semester (15 credits)

course credits name
ENGL 102 3 English Composition II
PHSC 103 3 Technology and Human Affairs
SPCH 105 3 Speech
MISY 150 3 Technology Fluency
HIST 206 3 African-American History II

Fall Semester (16 credits)

Course credits name
ANTH 207 3 Cultural Anthropology
PHIL 102 3 Logic
WLIT 207 3 World Literature
BIOL 101 4 Biological Sciences
SOSC 304 3 Introduction to Public Administration

Spring Semester (15 credits)

Course credits name
SOCI 301 3 Community Organization
POSC 302 3 State and Local Government
SOSC 340 3 Introduction to Nonprofit Leadership
XXXX xxx 3 Program Elective
XXXX xxx 3 Program Elective

Fall Semester (15 credits)

Course credits name
MGMT 460 3 Not-For-Profit Management
MGMT 360 3 Human Relations and Organizational Behavior
SOSC 407 3 Social Research Methods
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective

Spring Semester (15 credits)

Course credits name
SOSC 310 3 Introduction to Basic Statistics
MKTG 310  3 Principles of Marketing
SOCI 406 3 Sociology of the City 
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective

Fall Semester (15 credits)

Course credits name
NPLS 400 3 Diversity, Philanthropy, and Fundraising 
SOCI 409 3 Internship I
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective

Spring Semester (15 credits)

Course Credits Name
MNSC 483 3 Co-op Field Placement (Internship II)
SOSC 430 3 Social Science Applications
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective

Related Social and Political Sciences Programs

Nonprofit Leadership

Undergraduate

Political Science

Undergraduate

Sociology

Undergraduate

Social Science

Undergraduate

Urban Studies

Undergraduate

Anthropology

Undergraduate

Human Services Administration

Graduate
College

Nonprofit Leadership is in the Department of Applied and Political Sciences in the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences.

Minor in Political Science

Minor in Political Science

Degree Type

Minor

About

Think critically and creatively about the political systems and policies that shape the world we live in, so you can lead efforts to create the world you want to live in.

Introduction

Why minor in political science?

Learn about the U.S. political process by studying constitutional principles, the interrelationship of national, state, and local governments, while also examining other political systems from a comparative perspective.

You can also major in Political Science.

Minor Requirements

To graduate with a minor in political science, students must complete 18 credit hours with a grade of “C’ or better in each minor course:

CourseCreditsName
POSC 2023U.S. Government
POSC 3023State and Local Government
POSC 3033Comparative Government
POSC xxx9Advised Electives
Students studying

750+ Course Options

The Coppin State University Academic Catalog has a wide variety of skill-building courses designed to inspire and prepare you to be in-demand professionals and transformational leaders.

Related Social and Political Sciences Programs

Nonprofit Leadership

Undergraduate

Political Sciences

Undergraduate

Sociology

Undergraduate

Social Science

Undergraduate

Urban Studies

Undergraduate

Anthropology

Undergraduate
College

Political Science is in the Department of Applied and Political Sciences in the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences.

Political Science

Political Science

Degree Type

Bachelor of Science

About

Think critically and creatively about the political systems and policies that shape the world we live in, so you can lead efforts to create the world you want to live in.

Introduction

Both in the United States and overseas, people and societies are looking closer at governments, policies, and political processes. As more voices continue to question, evaluate, and analyze the governments, policies, and decisions that affect our daily lives, we need more people who understand the complex interrelationship of the US government and political landscape, and its impact and place in our global society.

You can choose to major or minor in Political Science.

Learn how to:

  • Apply knowledge of methods, vocabulary, and concepts of political science
  • Use technology to access, capture, analyze, and use data and literature
  • Understand and apply research methods to sociopolitical issues and policy discussions
  • Critically analyze complex issues within larger historical and global contexts
  • Demonstrate and apply knowledge and skills to research and community engagement efforts
Students studying

750+ Course Options

The Coppin State University Academic Catalog has a wide variety of skill-building courses designed to inspire and prepare you to be in-demand professionals and transformational leaders.

Students examine government, politics, and the relationship between individuals and political power in local, state, and national government. Coursework takes a comparative analytical approach to not only understanding systems of government, but also ways to evaluate and build how people make government more meaningful to the people and communities they serve. You’ll also study constitutional systems, various political systems, coalition building, and analyze how political power is exercised at an individual and collective level.

Our political science major prepares you for graduate school, law school, civil service occupations, and appointed positions with local, state, and national government. It also provides strategic insights on how to seek elective office as a candidate or to serve as a campaign staff person.

There is more information about major requirements in the Program Requirements section on this page.

Program Requirements

To graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science, students must complete 120 credit hours. These credit hours split between General Education Requirements (GERs), foundation and core courses, as well as electives. Expand each section below to see the range of course offerings.

Core Courses (27 credits)

CourseCreditsName
SOSC 304
or
POSC 307
3Introduction to Public Administration
or
Policy Analysis
SOSC 3103Introduction to Basic Statistics
SOSC 4073Social Research Methods
SOSC 4303Social Science Applications
POSC 2013Introduction to Political Science
POSC 2023U.S. Government
POSC 3023State and Local Government 
POSC 3033Comparative Government
POSC 4023Political Theory

Program Electives (18 credits)

CourseCreditsName
POSC 3003American Political Economy
POSC 3053Women in Politics
POSC 4033International Political Economy
POSC 4043International Relations
POSC 4053Politics and Parties in North America
POSC 4073Urban Civilization in North America
POSC 4083Peoples and Politics of Africa I
POSC 4093Peoples and Politics of Africa II
POSC 4113Seminar in Practical Politics and Field Experience
POSC 4123African American Political Behavior
POSC 4133Nationalism and Revolution
POSC 4203Constitutional Law I: Federalism and Separation of Powers
POSC 4213Constitutional Law II: Civil Rights and Civil Liberties
POSC 4223International Law
POSC 4233International Organizations
POSC 4503Special Topics in Political Science

Sample Degree Plan

This plan is only for example purposes. Your academic journey may be slightly different from another student’s journey, so be sure to always communicate with your academic advisor before finalizing your course schedule.

Fall Semester (16 credits)

Course

credits

name

ENGL 101

3

English Composition I

SOCI 201

3

Introduction to Sociology

MATH 125

3

Math for Liberal Arts

ORIE 101

1

Freshman Seminar

HIST 205

3

African American History I

IDIS 102

3

Music and Dance

Spring Semester (15 credits)

course

credits

name

ENGL 102

3

English Composition II

PHSC 103

3

Technology and Human Affairs

SPCH 105

3

Speech

MISY 150

3

Technology Fluency

HIST 206

3

African-American History II

Fall Semester (16 credits)

Course

credits

name

ANTH 207

3

Cultural Anthropology

PHIL 102

3

Logic

WLIT 207

3

World Literature

BIOL 101

4

Biological Sciences

XXXX xxx

3

General Elective

Spring Semester (15 credits)

Course

credits

name

SOCI 302

3

Social Psychology

POSC 300

3

American Political Economy

XXXX xxx

3

General Elective

XXXX xxx

3

General Elective

XXXX xxx

3

General Elective

Fall Semester (15 credits)

Course

credits

name

SOSC 304

3

Introduction to Public Administration

POSC 202

3

U.S. Government

XXXX xxx

3

General Elective

XXXX xxx

3

General Elective

XXXX xxx

3

General Elective

Spring Semester (15 credits)

Course

credits

name

SOSC 310

3

Statistics

SOCI 403

3

Race and Ethnicity

XXXX xxx

3

General Elective

XXXX xxx

3

General Elective

XXXX xxx

3

General Elective

Fall Semester (15 credits)

Course

credits

name

SOSC 407

3

Social Research

SOSC 340

3

Nonprofit Leadership

XXXX xxx

3

General Elective

XXXX xxx

3

General Elective

XXXX xxx

3

General Elective

Spring Semester (15 credits)

Course

Credits

Name

SOCI 411

3

Special Topics

SOSC 430

3

Social Science Applications

XXXX xxx

3

General Elective

XXXX xxx

3

General Elective

XXXX xxx

3

General Elective

Related Social and Political Sciences Programs

Nonprofit Leadership

Undergraduate

Political Sciences

Undergraduate

Sociology

Undergraduate

Social Science

Undergraduate

Urban Studies

Undergraduate

Anthropology

Undergraduate

Human Services Administration

Graduate
College

Political Science is in the Department of Applied and Political Sciences in the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences.

Social Science

Social Science

Degree Type

Bachelor of Science

About

Learn how to understand the social dynamics behind our world’s biggest problems and apply the skills needed to solve them.

Introduction

Social science is a field of study that incorporates elements of sociology, psychology, anthropology, and political science, among others. It encourages comprehensive analytical thinking for understanding any topic related to society and culture.

Some of the challenges we are facing today are some of the biggest problems the world has ever known. Racial injustice, gender inequality, infrastructure disparity, global inequity in health, medical, and education access are all issues that demand a deeper understanding of race, behavior, government, and sociopolitics. If you want to be part of the solutions, you must first learn about the institutions that brought us to our current breaking point.

Learn how to:

  • Apply knowledge of methods, vocabulary, and concepts of social sciences
  • Use technology to access, capture, analyze, and report social science data and literature
  • Understand and apply social science research methods to social issues and policy discussions
  • Critically analyze urban issues within larger historical and global contexts
  • Demonstrate and apply knowledge and skills to research and community engagement efforts
Students studying

750+ Course Options

The Coppin State University Academic Catalog has a wide variety of skill-building courses designed to inspire and prepare you to be in-demand professionals and transformational leaders.

Our program prepares students to be social scientists who take a critical look at society and culture. With courses that intersect across political science, urban studies, nonprofit leadership, sociology, and anthropology, our students develop analytical and problem-solving skills that lead to careers in urban planning, social work, public health, human services administration, and public policy. Graduates go on to earn advanced degrees, and work in human services fields, including education, social services, youth services, counseling, community development, healthcare, and labor relations.

There is more information about major requirements in the Program Requirements section on this page.

Where can you go with a Social Science degree?

Hard skills like coding and accounting aren’t the only kind of skills in demand. A social science degree exposes students to a variety of different fields, including anthropology, sociology, economics, political science, and many others. Learning skills across these fields ensures you’re cultivating the soft skills to approach any organizational challenge.

Program Requirements

To graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Social Science, students must complete 120 credit hours. These credit hours split among General Education Requirements (GERs), foundation and core courses, as well as electives. Expand each section below to see the range of course offerings, and different math course requirements by department.

Core Courses (30 credits)

CourseCreditsName

ANTH 207

or

SOCI 403

3

 

3

Cultural Anthropology

 

Sociology of Race and Ethnicity

SOSC 3043Introduction to Public Administration
SOSC 3103Introduction to Basic Statistics
SOSC 4073Social Research Methods
SOSC 4303Social Science Applications
POSC 2023U.S. Government
SOCI 3023Social Psychology

ECON 201, 210, or 211

or

POSC 300

3

Introduction to Economics

or

American Political Economy

POSC xxx3300 or 400 Advisor-approved POSC course
XXXX xxx3400 level Anthropology Political Science, Social Work, or Sociology

Sample Degree Plan

This plan is only for example purposes. Your academic journey may be slightly different from another student’s journey, so be sure to always communicate with your academic advisor before finalizing your course schedule.

Fall Semester (16 credits)

Course credits name
ENGL 101 3 English Composition I
SOCI 201 3 Introduction to Sociology
MATH 125 3 Math for Liberal Arts
FRSEM 101 1 Freshman Seminar
HIST 205 3 African American History I
IDIS 102 3 Music and Dance

Spring Semester (15 credits)

course credits name
ENGL 102 3 English Composition II
PHSC 103 3 Technology and Human Affairs
SPCH 105 3 Speech
MISY 150 3 Technology Fluency
HIST 206 3 African American History II

Fall Semester (16 credits)

Course credits name
ANTH 207 3 Cultural Anthropology
PHIL 102 3 Logic
WLIT 207 3 World Literature
BIOL 101 4 Biological Sciences
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective

Spring Semester (15 credits)

Course credits name
SOCI 302 3 Social Psychology
POSC 300 3 American Political Economy
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective

Fall Semester (15 credits)

Course credits name
SOSC 304 3 Introduction to Public Administration
POSC 301 3 U.S. Government
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective

Spring Semester (15 credits)

Course credits name
SOSC 310 3 Statistics
SOCI 403 3 Race and Ethnicity
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective

Fall Semester (15 credits)

Course credits name
SOSC 407 3 Social Research
SOSC 340 3 Nonprofit Leadership
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective

Spring Semester (15 credits)

Course Credits Name
SOCI 411 3 Special Topics
SOSC 430 3 Social Science Applications
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective

Related Social and Political Sciences Programs

Nonprofit Leadership

Undergraduate

Political Sciences

Undergraduate

Sociology

Undergraduate

Social Science

Undergraduate

Urban Studies

Undergraduate

Anthropology

Undergraduate

Human Services Administration

Graduate
College

Sociology is in the Department of Applied and Political Sciences in the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences.

Minor in Sociology

Minor in Sociology

Degree Type

Minor

About

When you understand how people interact, you can do more to bring about social and structural change.

Introduction

Why choose a sociology minor?

There is always a need for people with technical and quantitative skills—but employers today are also looking for people who can analyze, and think critically and creatively to solve problems. A sociology minor offers you an introduction to human behavior, and how we build societies. But even more so, you’ll learn to communicate, research, analyze, and empathize within the context of your place in a global society.

You can also major in Sociology.

Minor Requirements

To graduate with a minor in sociology, students must complete 18 credit hours with a grade of “C’ or better in each minor course:

CourseCreditsName
SOCI 2013Introduction to Sociology
ANTH 2073Cultural Anthropology
SOCI 3033Sociology Theory
SOSC 3103Introduction to Basic Statistics
SOSC 4073Social Research Methods
SOCI 4113Sociology–Special Topics

SOCI 409

or

SOCI 410

or

SOCI 411

3

 

3

 

3

Internship

or

Research Paper

or

Special Topics

Students studying

750+ Course Options

The Coppin State University Academic Catalog has a wide variety of skill-building courses designed to inspire and prepare you to be in-demand professionals and transformational leaders.

Related Social and Political Sciences Programs

Nonprofit Leadership

Undergraduate

Political Sciences

Undergraduate

Sociology

Undergraduate

Social Science

Undergraduate

Urban Studies

Undergraduate

Anthropology

Undergraduate
College

Sociology is in the Department of Applied and Political Sciences in the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences.

Sociology

Sociology

Degree Type

Bachelor of Science

About

When you understand how people interact, you can do more to bring about social and structural change.

Introduction

While psychology studies the mind and individual behavior, sociology is the study of society and human behavior. Humans are social beings, and sociology looks for patterns in our relationships, how we interact with others around us, and the cultures these relationships and interactions create. Sociology is a field with broad potential, especially for those interested in helping and working with people.

You can choose to major or minor in Sociology.

Learn how to:

  • Apply knowledge of methods, vocabulary, and concepts of sociology
  • Use technology to access, capture, analyze, and report social science data and literature
  • Understand and apply social science research methods to social issues and policy discussions
  • Critically analyze urban issues within larger historical and global contexts
  • Demonstrate and apply knowledge and skills to research and community engagement efforts
Students studying

750+ Course Options

The Coppin State University Academic Catalog has a wide variety of skill-building courses designed to inspire and prepare you to be in-demand professionals and transformational leaders.

Our sociology degree provides classroom and practical experience that prepares students to conduct cultural analysis and enrichment, and succeed in graduate and professional programs, as well as a variety of careers. Graduates have gone on to pursue public and private sector internship and professional opportunities in healthcare, law, education, corrections and law enforcement, and social services.

Not only does our sociology program provide specific and unique approaches to understand urban environments and cultures, it also serves as a bridge between our university mission to understand, preserve, and promote African-American culture.

There is more information about major requirements in the Program Requirements section on this page.

Program Requirements

To graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Sociology, students must complete 120 credit hours. These credit hours split between General Education Requirements (GERs), foundation and core courses, as well as electives. Each section below explains the range of course offerings.

Core Courses (18 credits)

CourseCreditsName
SOCI 2013Introduction to Sociology
SOCI 2063Social Problems
SOCI 3033Sociological Theory I
SOSC 3103Statistics
SOSC 4073Social Research Methods
SOSC 4303Social Science Applications

Program Electives (18 credits)

CourseCreditsName
SOCI 2053Class and Society
SOCI 3003Sociology of Religion
SOCI 3013Community Organization
SOCI 3023Social Psychology
SOCI 3043Sociology Theory II
SOCI 4023Family Studies
SOCI 4033Race and Ethnicity
SOCI 4053Criminology
SOCI 4063Sociology of the City
SOCI 409

3

 

Internship
SOCI 4103Research Paper
SOCI 4113Sociology–Special Topics
SOSC 4103Statistical Analysis

 

Sample Degree Plan

This plan is only for example purposes. Your academic journey may be slightly different from another student’s journey, so be sure to always communicate with your academic advisor before finalizing your course schedule.

Fall Semester (16 credits)

Course credits name
ENGL 101 3 English Composition I
SOCI 201 3 Introduction to Sociology
MATH 125 3 Math for Liberal Arts
ORIE 101 1 Freshman Seminar
HIST 205 3 African American History I
IDIS 102 3 Music and Dance

Spring Semester (15 credits)

course credits name
ENGL 102 3 English Composition II
PHSC 103 3 Technology and Human Affairs
SPCH 105 3 Speech
MISY 150 3 Technology Fluency
HIST 206 3 African-American History II

Fall Semester (16 credits)

Course credits name
ECON 201 3 Introduction to Economics
PHIL 102 3 Logic
WLIT 207 3 World Literature
BIOL 101 4 Biological Sciences
SOCI 205 3 Class and Society

Spring Semester (15 credits)

Course credits name
SOCI 302 3 Social Psychology
SOCI 407 3 Social Research
SOCI xxx 3 Program Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective

Fall Semester (15 credits)

Course credits name
SOSC 310 3 Introduction to Basic Statistics
SOCI 402 3 Family Studies 
SOCI 409 3 Internship
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective

Spring Semester (15 credits)

Course credits name
SOCI 303 3 Sociological Theory
SOCI 403 3 Race and Ethnicity
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective

Fall Semester (15 credits)

Course credits name
SOCI 406 3 Sociology of the City
HEED 420 3 Community Health
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective

Spring Semester (15 credits)

Course Credits Name
URST 401 3 Internship
SOSC430 3 Social Science Applications
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective

Related Social and Political Sciences Programs

Nonprofit Leadership

Undergraduate

Political Sciences

Undergraduate

Sociology

Undergraduate

Social Science

Undergraduate

Urban Studies

Undergraduate

Anthropology

Undergraduate
College

Sociology is in the Department of Applied and Political Sciences in the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences.

Administrative Assistant II

staff

Department of Applied Social and Political Sciences

Department of Applied Social and Political Sciences

College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

Mission

Through qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, meaningful understanding of behavior and social dynamics, community engagement, as well as public and nonprofit sector administration, we equip our students to successfully apply theory to practice in a complex and changing world.

Speak to
Dijoneé Chester
Mon-Fri 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Henrietta Lacks Health & Human Services Building, Room 540
(410) 951-3521

Don’t just dream about building a better world, use the knowledge you’ll learn here to make it happen.

Expand Your View of the World

People are at the heart of every society. Any collective of people makes up a community or culture. It is in these communities and cultures that we begin to design structures and systems that help our collectives thrive. By understanding how people, cultures, beliefs, and systems build the groundwork for the world around us, we learn how to build a better world. This is the value of the social and political sciences, as well as social science research.

Our focus is on research, methodology and critical thinking that prepare our students to lead and inform meaningful change.

Let our dedicated faculty and staff equip you with the knowledge and skills that will help you to soar and live out your dreams.  We rejoice in your growth and success. 

Dr. Elgin L. Klugh, Chair

Our Undergraduate and Graduate Programs

We offer a variety of undergraduate and graduate applied social science programs that bridge theory to practice through social science perspectives and methodologies.

Undergraduate Programs

Anthropology

Interdisciplinary Studies

Nonprofit Leadership

Political Science

Social Science

Urban Studies

Graduate Program

Human Services Administration

We co-offer the Human Services Administration graduate program with the nearby University of Baltimore.

Coppin State University

Make Your Own Major

Choosing to major in Interdisciplinary Studies gives you the academic freedom to design your own curriculum.

What are our graduates up to?

In line with the larger Coppin mission, we strive to produce leaders and change agents ready to engage communities and meet the 21st-century workforce demands of governmental and nongovernmental organizations. In addition, many of our students graduate to pursue advanced studies in political science, public policy, law, public health, and administration.

Interested in attending law school?

Coppin and University of Baltimore School of Law have partnered to offer a unique law school preparation program called the Fannie Angelos Program for Academic Excellence. The Fannie Angelos Scholars Program and LSAT Award Program both include an LSAT prep course taught on Coppin’s campus each spring semester. Program application deadlines are in the fall.

Faculty and Staff

Our faculty and staff bring an astounding breadth of experience while sharing common interests in engaging urban communities to understand and find solutions for contemporary problems.

Professor and Chairperson

faculty

Administrative Assistant II

staff

Hudgins
Associate Professor

faculty

Can Help With
Professional options and life decisions
Major and course selections
Research and literature regarding the African Community, history, politics, sociology
Photo of Dr. Claudia D. Nelson
Associate Professor

faculty

Photo of Tenyo Pearl
Campus Director of the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance and Program Coordinator, Nonprofit Leadership Program

staff

Can Help With
Information about the CSU Nonprofit Leadership Academic Program
How to earn a BS in Nonprofit Leadership
How to earn your Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP) credentials via the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance
Photo of Dr. Christopher Rivera
Assistant Professor

faculty

Can Help With
Interdisciplinary Studies
Spanish
Senior Lecturer

faculty

Can Help With
Information about Anthropology and Archaeology.
Information about GIS and 3D-photogrammetry.
Information about Baltimore's Historic Laurel Cemetery and the Laurel Cemetery Memorial Project.
Assistant Professor

faculty

Can Help With
AutoCAD
SPSS
GIS
photo of Ahmed Zohny
Professor and Pre-Law Adviser

faculty

Can Help With
International Affairs, US Foreign Policy Toward the Middle East, International Organizations, and National Security
College

The Department of Applied Social and Political Sciences is within the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences. 

Urban Studies

Urban Studies

Degree Type

Bachelor of Science

About

Where we live can affect how we live—learn how to build and reshape urban communities to positively affect the people who call those communities home.

Introduction

A lot of people live in urban areas today, and the United Nations projects 2.5 billion more people will live in cities and other urbanized areas by 2050. Rising population trends and urbanization demand trained professionals with the skills to create and maintain livable spaces. A degree in urban studies offers real-world value, and jobs are on the rise.

City and infrastructure planning, architecture and landscape design, transportation, public health and education, as well as community development need diverse voices to ensure our cities can improve in quality, equity, and access. The skills you’ll learn help you make strategic and collaborative decisions that have the potential to affect millions—or even billions.

Learn how to:

  • Apply knowledge of methods, vocabulary, and concepts of urban studies
  • Use technology to access, capture, analyze, and report social science data and literature
  • Understand and apply social science research methods to social issues and policy discussions
  • Critically analyze urban issues within larger historical and global contexts
  • Demonstrate and apply knowledge and skills to research and community engagement efforts
Students studying

750+ Course Options

The Coppin State University Academic Catalog has a wide variety of skill-building courses designed to inspire and prepare you to be in-demand professionals and transformational leaders.

Our urban studies degree provides classroom and practical experience where students gain an appreciation for the diverse nature and needs of urban communities. Courses, community service, and a comprehensive internship prepare you to understand economic, political, and environmental factors that shape these areas, and apply that knowledge to a range of professional careers. You’ll graduate ready for entry to mid-level public sector positions, as well as private industry and nonprofit careers.

There is more information about major requirements in the Program Requirements section on this page.

See Where an Urban Studies Degree Can Take You

With urbanization trends spreading throughout the world, there are a wealth of professional opportunities where you can put your degree to work.

Program Requirements

To graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Urban Studies, students must complete 120 credit hours. These credit hours split between General Education Requirements (GERs), foundation and core courses, as well as electives. Each section below explains the range of course offerings.

Core Courses (36 credits)

CourseCreditsName
URST 2013Introduction to Urban Studies
URST 4013Urban Studies Internship

POSC 300

or

ECON 201

3

 

3

American Political Economy

or

Introduction to Economics

POSC 3023State and Local Government
POSC 450 3Special Topics in Political Science
SOSC 3043Introduction to Public Administration
SOSC 3073Urban Planning
SOSC 3403Introduction to Nonprofit Leadership
SOCI 3013Community Organization
SOCI 4063Sociology of the City

SOSC 407

or

SOSC 430

3

 

3

Social Research Methods

or

Social Science Applications

HIST 3183History of African Americans in American Cities

Sample Degree Plan

Be sure to connect with your academic advisor to plan your semester courses. The plan below is just an example—your journey may have different requirements.  

Fall Semester (16 credits)

Course credits name
ENGL 101 3 English Composition I
SOCI 201 3 Introduction to Sociology
MATH 125 3 Math for Liberal Arts
ORIE 101 1 Freshman Seminar
HIST 205 3 African American History I
IDIS 102 3 Music and Dance

Spring Semester (15 credits)

course credits name
ENGL 102 3 English Composition II
PHSC 103 3 Technology and Human Affairs
SPCH 105 3 Speech
MISY 150 3 Technology Fluency
HIST 206 3 African-American History II

Fall Semester (16 credits)

Course credits name
ECON 201 3 Introduction to Economics
PHIL 102 3 Logic
WLIT 207 3 World Literature
BIOL 101 4 Biological Sciences
URST 201 3 Introduction to Urban Studies

Spring Semester (15 credits)

Course credits name
URST 301 3 Urban Theory
POSC 301 3 U.S. Government
HIST 318 3 History of African Americans in the City
SOCS 304 3 Introduction to Public Administration
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective

Fall Semester (15 credits)

Course credits name
HIST 319 3 Urban America Since 1870
POSC 302 3 Sate and Local Government 
SOSC 407 3 Social Research Methods
SOSC 340 3 Introduction to Nonprofit Leadership
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective

Spring Semester (15 credits)

Course credits name
SOSC 310 3 Introduction to Social Statistics
GEOG 406 3 Urban Geography
SOSC 307 3 Urban Planning
SOCI 301 3 Community Organization
XXXX xxx 3 General Electives

Fall Semester (15 credits)

Course credits name
SOCI 406 3 Sociology of the City
HEED 420 3 Community Health
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective

Spring Semester (15 credits)

Course Credits Name
URST 401 3 Internship
SOSC430 3 Social Science Applications
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective
XXXX xxx 3 General Elective

Related Social and Political Sciences Programs

Nonprofit Leadership

Undergraduate

Political Sciences

Undergraduate

Sociology

Undergraduate

Social Science

Undergraduate

Anthropology

Undergraduate
College

Urban Studies is in the Department of Applied Social and Political Sciences in the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences.

College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

Division of Academic Affairs

We are the explorers who connect the dots between how we think, how we behave, as well as how we create and govern our societies.

Preparing You for What's Next

Welcome to the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences (CBSS)! Whether you’re a new or returning student to an undergraduate or graduate program, we’re so excited to welcome you here.

We want you to consider CBSS faculty and staff your educational family. We are here to guide, nurture, and mentor you through your student journey. Count on us to assist you through personal and academic challenges, create life-enriching experiences, communicate openly, celebrate your successes, and prepare you for a lifetime of professional fulfillment.

The CBSS offers programs in psychology, counseling and behavioral health, criminal justice, social and political sciences, and social work. And they all hae something in common—they all work to answer and address human needs. Our programs graduate clinicians and professionals ready to meet increasingly diverse needs in the U.S. and beyond.

Our Departments and Programs

With 8 undergraduate programs and five graduate programs in four departments of study, CSU’s College of Behavioral and Social Sciences provides a hands-on, interdisciplinary education that puts learning into action.

Small classes. World-class faculty. Personalized attention. An education tailored to your needs. Everything you won’t find anywhere else. The College of Behavioral and Social Sciences gets you ready for what’s next.

Mission and Vision

Mission

The College of Behavioral and Social Sciences provides a strong academic foundation that prepares students for careers and graduate study in the areas of Applied Social and Political Sciences, Criminal Justice, Psychology, Counseling and Behavioral Health and Social Work while promoting civic responsibility. By advancing student success and strengthening community connections, we transform lives and advance Coppin's mission.

Vision

The College of Behavioral and Social Sciences will be a beacon of scholarship, service, and social justice empowering students, faculty, and community partners to drive transformative changes locally, nationally, and globally.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

Our beautiful academic facilities aren’t the only places where learning happens. We continue to look for opportunities to learn and grow skills that complement classroom study. Take advantage of events, including:

  • CBSS Professional Conversation Series where you can meet alumni who’ve earned similar degrees
  • Fall and spring festivals where you can learn about educational opportunities
  • Graduate School 101 Workshop where you can learn what you need to prepare for graduate study

Our Tips to be a Successful CBSS Student

When our students are successful, we are successful! Throughout your journey with us, we encourage you to get involved, stay engaged, and speak up when you need help. We are here to help you grow, and challenge you to succeed beyond your wildest expectations.

For first-time and returning students, we know that College can feel overwhelming at times. So, as you go through your academic journey, remember to:

  • Visit your advisors often
  • Ask questions
  • Attend CBSS events
  • Connect with the Career Services Center for the latest on internships and job opportunities
  • Apply to become a CBSS Student Ambassador

Your college experience is what you make it, so take the time to make it an experience of memories you’re proud to remember.

Department of Psychology, Counseling, and Behavioral Health

Applied Psychology

Undergraduate

Psychology

Undergraduate

Rehabilitation Services

Undergraduate

Addiction Counseling

Graduate

Clinical Mental Health Counseling Rehabilitation

Graduate

Professional Counselor Licensure

Post-Master's

Assistive Technology

Graduate

Job Development and Job Placement Services

Graduate

Vocational Evaluation and Work Adjustment

Graduate

Department of Applied Social and Political Sciences

Interdisciplinary Studies

Major

Nonprofit Leadership

Undergraduate

Political Science

Sociology

Undergraduate

Anthropology

Undergraduate

Social Science

Undergraduate

Urban Studies

Major

Human Services Administration

Graduate

Department of Social Work

Social Work

Undergraduate

Social Welfare

Undergraduate

Department of Criminal Justice

Criminal Justice

Undergraduate

Criminal Justice

Graduate

Forensic Investigation

Undergraduate

Policing Strategies

Graduate

Investigative Sciences

Graduate
Two students review notes in the lounge

Student Success

The College of Behavioral and Social Sciences celebrates Dean’s List students who have achieved a semester grade point average of 3.50 or higher. Students must also have completed at least 12 graduation credits and no grade of “D”, “F”, “CS” or “I”.

Dean's List Students

Current student? Report a complaint or concern.

Report a concern or complaint

Contact Us

CBSS faculty and staff bring a wealth of experience from both industry and academia. We commit to uphold the highest standards of the College and University, and provide students the guidance to lead transformative lives and careers.

Are you a prospective or current student with a question about the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences or one of our programs? Reach out to us! 

Executive Administrative Assistant to the Dean

staff

Coordinator of Partnerships & Student Engagement

staff