CHSS Restructuring: All Your Burning Questions Answered!

Restructuring the College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Montclair State University is making some exciting changes to the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS). Let’s break down what’s happening.

Is CHSS closing?

No, CHSS is not closing or reducing its programs. All current degrees and faculty positions are safe.

What’s the plan?

The university aims to reorganize how CHSS operates. Instead of separate departments, programs will be grouped by themes. This will make it easier for students to explore connections between subjects, like social science and political theory.

Why restructure?

Enrollment in humanities majors has seen a dip, with some programs declining by over 20% from 2021 to 2025. By changing the structure, the university hopes to spark interest in these essential fields. Interdisciplinary classes can help students understand broader themes affecting society today.

Current status of restructuring

The new structure will consist of four schools yet to be named. Faculty are actively refining how these new schools will operate.

No departments are being cut

There’s no plan to eliminate traditional academic departments like English or History. Faculty will still manage their curricula, and core programs remain untouched. The goal is to design a structure that encourages collaboration without losing the essence of each discipline.

Misunderstandings about focus

Many fear that focusing more on international students could limit opportunities for local students. That’s not the case. Bringing in diverse voices enriches everyone’s educational experience and fosters global understanding.

Concerns about language and faculty control

Critics argue that using terms like “schools” sounds too corporate, suggesting a loss of faculty autonomy. However, this shift aims to enhance collaboration, not control. Faculty will still guide their curriculum.

Next steps

The faculty and staff are hammering out details for the new structure. A launch date is not set, but plans are in the works.

Conclusion

The restructuring of CHSS is a thoughtful approach to modernize the college while valuing its rich history in humanities and social sciences. This change aims to enrich the academic experience for all students, connect various disciplines, and promote innovative learning environments.

For questions, feel free to reach out to the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at chss@montclair.edu.

This move is in line with recent educational trends highlighted in a Pew Research study that shows a growing interest in interdisciplinary studies among students. Engaging with a broader range of topics prepares graduates for a world where solutions often require knowledge from multiple fields.

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