The College of Social Sciences and Humanities (CSSH) at Debre Markos University (DMU) is one of the University’s major academic units dedicated to the study of human society, culture, language, environment and development. The College plays a significant role in advancing knowledge and promoting national development through quality education, research, and community engagement.
CSSH is among the pioneer colleges of Debre Markos University, established in 2007 with a small number of academic staff and four undergraduate programs in the field of education. The College evolved from the former Faculty of Education and was later reorganized as an independent academic unit to strengthen teaching, research, and community service in the social sciences and humanities. This institutional transformation was part of the University’s broader expansion in academic programs and research activities.
Today, the College has 253 staff members, of who 247 are academic staffs, including those currently on study leave. The College offers ten undergraduate programs, eleven master’s programs, and two doctoral programs, serving a diverse student population and contributing to the development of skilled professionals in various sectors.
Mission and Vision
Aligned with the vision and mission of Debre Markos University, the College of Social Sciences and Humanities contributes significantly to the University’s core functions of teaching and learning, research, and community service.
The College strives to:
- Produce competent, ethical, and socially responsible graduates capable of contributing to sustainable societal development.
- Conduct relevant and high-quality research addressing social, cultural, political, and environmental challenges.
- Provide community-oriented services that support local and national development initiatives.
Through these efforts, the College seeks to foster critical thinking, innovation, and social responsibility among its students and academic community.
Academic Programs and Departments
The College offers a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across several disciplines in the social sciences and humanities. The academic departments include:
- Amharic Language and Literature
- English Language and Literature
- History and Heritage Management
- Geography and Environmental Studies
- Civics and Ethical Studies
- Sociology
- Journalism and Communication
- Political Science and International Relations
- Theatrical Arts
These programs equip students with strong analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills, preparing them for careers in education, public administration, research, media, policy-making, and civil society organizations.
In addition, the College offers graduate programs (Master’s and PhD) in selected disciplines to promote advanced research, academic excellence, and professional development.
Research, Community Engagement, and Collaboration
The College maintains a strong commitment to research and community engagement in order to address pressing social and developmental challenges. Research activities focus on a wide range of thematic areas, including:
- Language, Culture, and Education
- Urbanization and Social Change
- Media and Communication
- Peace and Conflict Resolution
- Governance, Politics, and Federalism
- Gender and Development
- Natural Resource Management
- History, Heritage, and Tourism
- Climate Change and Environmental Issues
- Indigenous Knowledge and Folklore
Through interdisciplinary research and community outreach programs, the College contributes to the University’s mission of promoting problem-solving research and community-based development initiatives. Furthermore, the College actively participates in academic partnerships and collaborative projects with national and international institutions to enhance teaching quality, expand research capacity, and strengthen cultural and scholarly exchange.