Welcome to the Public and Community Service Major (PCS)

Public and Community Service (PCS) is a program integrating academic learning with community and governmental activities. The PCS specialization actively engages students in academic learning through civic participation. It offers students an opportunity to learn about public and community issues by working in designated community agencies and government organizations while applying academic theories and analytical skills to real-world problems. Students engage in local communities with the intention of conducting action research to address and provide solution- based efforts to community needs. The required practicum and internship experiences include a placement at a community or government agency for a single or series of significant projects. Through these experiences, students become familiar with various social issues affecting society.

OUR GOAL

The goal of the Public and Community Service (PCS) major is to develop an awareness and understanding of the process and value to integrate academic training and service in the community. Students identify and analyze socially significant needs addressed in local agencies in the context of one or more social science disciplines. The program broadens students’ university experiences by exposing them to “the real world” and providing opportunities to conduct research on social issues. PCS students gain a more realistic perspective of society, greater self-knowledge, and increased leadership skills. The curriculum emphasizes urban contexts and multicultural issues, as well as historical, social, economic, and global perspectives. The faculty emphasize relationships between educational theory and practice, providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to serve as educational leaders in community setting.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
If you want more information about the Public and Community Service Major or if you have any questions or comments please contact:

Dr. Jeanett Castellanos
Coordinator, Public and Community Service Major
Social & Behavioral Sciences Building, Suite 1232
Phone: (949) 824-6298
castellj@uci.edu


 
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School of Social Sciences | University of California • Irvine
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