Welcome to the Cooper Union Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences.

Peter Cooper believed that a practical education should offer students a means of livelihood and a sense of intellectual curiosity as well as encouraging involvement in the cultural and political life of the city and the nation. So important did he hold the education of the citizenry to be that courses in the social sciences were to be considered preeminent. The core curriculum offered by the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences continues Peter Cooper's commitment to liberal learning and social awareness. Through critical examination and discussion of primary materials students develop a broad understanding of the origins of modern society and the conflicts within it. The courses encourage conversation and collaboration to engender a community of inquiry and expertise, preparing students for professional careers and for active participation in society.