This program looks at current social problems with faculty from a variety of disciplines such as Sociology, Political Science, and Anthropology, examining dimensions of social inequality, including class, race, gender, and environment. The fall seminar on Global Gender Inequality adds an extra one credit research experience. 

Classes proposed for 2026-27 

Political Science 1026 – Global Gender Inequality (Fall)

This course asks the question, “Why does the status of women vary so dramatically across countries?” and seeks to answer this question using social science research methods. The main assignment is a workshop style, multi-stage research/writing assignment about the status of women across the world. Each student chooses an indicator of gender equality, collects data on that indicator, and uses the data to test hypotheses about the causes of gender equality. The course includes dedicated time to work on the research project. 

Taught by Caroline Beer, Green & Gold Professor of Political Science 

SOC 1010 – Immigration in Cross-National Perspective (Fall) 

Large-scale migration since 1945 is transforming societies globally. On both sides of the Atlantic and across the more recently industrialized nations of Asia, growing international migration is bringing major social change. This course examines contemporary migration through a cross-national lens focused on cases in North America, Europe, and Asia. The course draws primarily on sociological frameworks and migration research, with reference to related inquiry and findings in other social science disciplines, including economics, political science, and anthropology. The following topics will be explored: the causes and consequences of international migration; comparative experiences in migration between the United States and other industrialized regions such as Canada, Europe and Asia; patterns of immigrant integration by country/region; membership, belonging, and citizenship. Through a consideration of these topics, the course will promote greater understanding of the complex processes of international migration and the diverse human experiences contingent on this key, contemporary global issue. Students will gain knowledge from the course on sociological theory in the field of international migration and on the social, cultural, and political impact of international migration on both destination and origin countries.   

Taught by Professor Noriko Matsumoto, Sociology, Critical Race & Ethnic Studies 

GEOGRAPHY 1025 – Environmental Geographies (Spring)

Course info to come

Taught by Professor Tyler Sonnichsen 

Students:  

“I'm thrilled to have had the opportunity to take part in the Liberal Arts Scholars Program at UVM, an opportunity that has truly enriched my academic journey. I was in the Social Science LASP and only had great experiences. I loved all of the professors in the program, they were all very knowledgeable and great at presenting their information. The classes were able to push me in a way that bettered my education at UVM. I also was able to quickly build great friendships with many of the other people in LASP. It is an amazing way to meet people during your freshman year. I would highly recommend that anyone with the opportunity to be involved in LASP, do it. The program was such a valuable experience that I’m honored to have had." 
 
- Luke H., History Major with Anthropology and Geography Minors

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