The Division of Social Sciences includes several essential academic disciplines dedicated to the mission of discovering truths about the human person and using this knowledge to improve the human condition as it is experienced in society: Anthropology, Criminal Justice, History, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology, and Social Work.     

No area of human life, no issue in society exists beyond the reach of the social sciences.  

Underpinning all of them are cultural, historical, legal, political, psychological, and social dimensions.  The courses offered within the Division of Social Sciences explore these various dimensions and prepare students to lead meaningful, informed lives within modern society.  It is no overstatement to state that the faculty and staff of the Division live in a social sciences world—and so do you!

The Division offers five majors and five minors that will empower you to discover how to live life well at both the individual and societal levels:

Majors

Minors

The Division’s caring faculty provide engaging instruction and personalized mentorship, which build a strong foundation to pursue advanced degrees or lifelong careers in many areas such as counseling, education, human services, government, law, mental health, politics, and many other human- and social-based fields. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, those working in social science occupations currently enjoy a median income of $72,740 with job opportunities expected to grow at 8% through the year 2030.

Most importantly, a social sciences-based curriculum develops the whole person: strengthening analytical reading skills, enhancing critical thinking skills, and developing effective writing skills.  

This collection of skills will empower you to confront personal and societal issues of the day with confidence and intelligence while also appreciating and pursuing the truth, the good, and the beauty that lie at the foundation of all human happiness.

The opportunities for enrichment offered to you by the Division go well beyond the classroom and personal mentorship.  The Division also offers an array of internships spanning the social sciences and sponsors extracurricular programming throughout the academic year, including academic lectures, field trips, information days, and volunteer activities. 

Meet the Division of Social Sciences

Come, join our Social Sciences world, and let us prepare you for the journey of your lifetime….  

Scott E. White

Assistant Professor of History, History Internship Coordinator and College Archivist
scott.white@duny.edu

Office: 845-848-4072

Christopher G. Libertini

Assistant Professor • Humanities & Social Sciences
 christopher.libertini@duny.edu

Office: (845) 848-4069

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Paul Bonk

Assistant Professor
of Political Science and Coordinator of Social Sciences
paul.bonk@duny.edu

Office: (845) 848-4073

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Tara Parrello

Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice and Coordinator of Criminal Justice
 tara.parrello@duny.edu

Office: (845) 848-4097

Location: Casey Hall, Humanities & Social Sciences

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Kelly M. Johnson

Associate Professor of Psychology and Coordinator of Psychology

kelly.johnson@duny.edu

Office: (845) 848-4074

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Melody L. Hyppolite

Director of Social Work and Associate Professor
melody.hyppolite@duny.edu

Office: (845) 848-4078

Location: Casey Hall

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Blair Hoplight

Assistant Professor of Psychology
blair.hoplight@duny.edu

Office: 845-848-4071

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Kathleen Hickey

Professor of English
kathleen.hickey@duny.edu

Office: (845) 848-4009

Location: Casey Hall 19

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David Chun

Assistant Professor of Psychology
david.chun@duny.edu

Office: (845) 848-4070

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Maureen Aitchison

Social Work Program Staff & Teacher Education Administrative Assistant
maureen.aitchison@duny.edu

Office: (845) 848-4077