In conjunction with the required course of study for teacher certification, the Social Studies degree program provides a strong foundation for a successful career as a social studies teacher, in terms of content coverage, teaching methodologies, and the development of critical thinking and writing skills. Students will learn a range of content and disciplinary approaches reflected in the various social studies disciplines. At the program's core are 21 credits in history (the equivalent of the history minor) with an additional 18 credits divided over American politics and government, economics, and anthropology. The Social Studies major is designed to prepare students to be middle or secondary school social studies teachers and is typically completed in conjunction with one of the teacher certification programs.