Department of Social Sciences
Mission
The Sociology and International Relations and European Affairs (IREA) programs of the Department of Social Sciences combine a strong, internationally acknowledged scholarship and research record with innovative, research-informed approaches to teaching. Our department hosts a vibrant community of scholars specializing in sociology, anthropology, criminology and criminal justice, international relations, and European affairs.
By emphasizing both theoretical rigor and practical relevance, our programs equip students and faculty to contribute meaningfully to our fields, making an academic and societal impact that extends beyond the classroom. Through a comprehensive and challenging curriculum, students develop independent, critical perspectives on the complexities and significance of sociopolitical and sociocultural phenomena at local, regional, national and global levels.
Vision
Our department is committed to producing high-quality, socially and politically relevant scholarship. Our vision is to become a pioneering research hub in sociology, anthropology, international relations, and European affairs, both within Greece and internationally.
Building on the department’s expertise, we aim to conduct innovative research in our areas including migration and mobilities, sociological theory, social inequalities, urban sociology, architecture, tourism, modern Greek studies, food and culture, media and film, gender, religion, identity issues, human rights, civil society, politics, European integration, U.S. foreign policy, geopolitics, area studies, diplomacy, and international security.
We foster an inclusive, collaborative environment that promotes interdisciplinary research and scholarship, strengthens interdepartmental collaboration, and cultivates strong links with the ACG centers and institutes. We are also committed to meaningful engagement with the local and global communities.