Humanities and Social Sciences

Taejae University's Humanities and Social Sciences Program is dedicated to cultivating forward-thinking leaders with a comprehensive and sophisticated understanding of human nature, culture, and interactions in society. We firmly believe that a solid education in the humanities and social sciences is essential for developing creative and critical thinking, effective communication and collaboration, and an appreciation for diversity, empathy, and sustainability—all of which are indispensable human skills and values in the era of artificial intelligence and automation. Our interdisciplinary curriculum aims to provide students with a rich and diverse educational experience by covering a broad range of intellectual fields in the humanities and social sciences. Through our rigorous program, students will develop not only these skills but also the ability to create innovative solutions to local and global challenges.

Educational Goals

Upon completion of our program, students should be able to:

- Develop their own critical perspectives and understanding of human beings and society.
- Think creatively about key concepts and theories in their chosen areas of interest and use this knowledge to solve real-world problems in innovative ways.
- Improve their communication and collaborative skills through open discussion and respect and empathy for others.
- Gain a greater awareness of diversity, empathy, and sustainability and be able to positively impact domestic and global affairs based on these values.
- Discover their vocational interests and career options through practical experience gained from capstone courses.

Course Highlights

Fundamentals: Exploring Humans and Society

HS200 Perspectives on Humans and Society

This interdisciplinary course examines key themes about human nature and society by drawing from philosophy, literature, arts, and social sciences. Students explore concepts such as consciousness, justice, and democracy through critical discussions and narrative analysis, building skills to articulate their understanding of humanity and society.

HS211 Global History I

A survey of global history from early civilizations to 1500, this course explores social, cultural, economic, and technological developments across diverse regions. Emphasizing non-Eurocentric perspectives, it equips students with a broad understanding of human experience and the roots of the modern world.

HS212 Global Narratives

This course explores how stories across cultures reflect human experiences and values. Students examine literature, film, art, games, and media to analyze global themes like morality and nationalism, fostering intercultural empathy, creativity, and critical thinking.

HS221 Domestic and International Politics

Students examine political systems, institutions, and actors at both domestic and international levels. Through comparative and thematic approaches, the course explores regime types, democratic processes, and the key dynamics of global politics.

Advanced: Deepening Knowledge and Critical Insight

HS311 Global History II

Covering global history from 1500 to the present, this course explores transformative changes in society, economy, culture, and technology. Students engage with diverse sources to understand the modern world's development and its complex global interconnections.

HS314 Global Philosophy

This seminar introduces philosophical traditions from around the world, encouraging students to engage with global perspectives on knowledge, ethics, and meaning. Discussions foster appreciation for diverse intellectual heritages and universal philosophical themes.

HS411 Humanities Special Seminar I

This seminar explores timely topics in the humanities, selected each semester based on academic trends, faculty expertise, and student interest. Themes may include identity, culture, memory, or technology. Students engage in interdisciplinary analysis, discussions, and creative projects. The course encourages critical thinking and relevance-driven inquiry.

HS412 Humanities Special Seminar II

HS421 Social Science Special Seminar I

This course examines current issues in the social sciences, with topics chosen each semester in response to global developments and student demand. Possible themes include governance, inequality, digital society, or migration. Students analyze research, discuss key debates, and apply concepts to real-world cases.

HS422 Social Science Special Seminar II

Interdisciplinary: Connecting Ideas Across Fields

HS312 Literary and Cultural Connections

Building on Global Narratives, this course examines world literature's cultural impact, focusing on themes, genres, and theoretical approaches. Students explore texts from various traditions to deepen their understanding of cultural expression and literary analysis.

HS313 Creative Digital Humanities

Students explore digital humanities through creative projects combining technology, design, and storytelling. They apply programming and narrative techniques to produce innovative content, preparing for roles as writers, media creators, or researchers in digital culture.

HS321 Domestic Problems and Social Changes

The course explores how public policy addresses domestic social issues. Students analyze government roles, stakeholders, and policy-making processes through case studies, gaining tools to propose and assess solutions for inclusive and sustainable social change.

HS322 Global Challenges and Governance

This seminar addresses major global issues—climate change, inequality, conflict—and how international actors respond through governance. Students examine institutions, case studies, and policy approaches to understand and engage with global cooperation and sustainable development.

XD401 Navigating Tomorrow: Emerging Technologies and Future Society

This seminar explores the dynamic interplay between emerging technologies and societal evolution. We will examine how technological advancements are shaping the future of human society, including changes in communication, work, business, economy, politics, and the environment. Students will critically analyze contemporary and forthcoming technologies and consider their ethical implications, societal benefits, and potential risks.

XD411 Special Cross-disciplinary Seminar I

This seminar offers an innovative, cross-disciplinary platform that integrates various major programs to provide electives beyond traditional academic boundaries. The theme is updated annually to reflect evolving student interests and faculty expertise. The course fosters an environment where academic fields intersect, encouraging new ideas and approaches to complex issues and equipping students for the multifaceted challenges of the future.

XD412 Special Cross-disciplinary Seminar II