The social sciences – anthropology, criminology, political science, psychologyand sociology – have long been a major strength at the University of West Georgia. To enhance collaboration across these related fields and strategically align academic disciplines, UWG is bringing criminology and political science into the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences (CHASS) and establishing a new School of Psychology.
Beginning in Fall 2026, students will see these changes take shape. Criminology and political science majors will become part of the School of Social Sciences alongside sociology and anthropology, while psychology majors will be housed in the new School of Psychology.
As part of the restructuring, Dr. Kathleen Skott-Myhre was named interim director of the new School of Psychology, and Dr. Nathan Lawres was appointed interim director of the integrated School of Social Sciences.
The overall realignment reflects UWG’s commitment to creating stronger connections among related disciplines. Prior to this academic year, criminology and political science were housed in the Department of Civic Engagement and Public Service in University College. Their transition to CHASS and integration into the School of Social Sciences positions them within an academic unit more reflective of their subject specialties.
At the same time, the move allows University College to concentrate more fully on its primary areas of focus, including first-year student initiatives and dual enrollment.
“I think the realignment creates stronger academic connections and identities among programs that already share many common interests and areas of expertise,” said Clint Samples, interim dean of CHASS. “They are a natural fit in the college, and their addition strengthens the School of Social Sciences and creates new opportunities for collaboration that will benefit students across programs.”
For political science and criminology majors, the new structure not only creates a clearer academic identity but also a more distinct professional profile. Students in those disciplines can now emerge as graduates of the UWG School of Social Sciences, which will “help them signal to employers who they are and what they studied,” said Dr. J. Salvador Peralta, professor of political science.
According to Skott-Myhre, the integration creates new opportunities for disciplines that play important roles in the community.
“The complex challenges facing our communities, from mental health and public safety to environmental sustainability and public policy, cannot be solved by a single discipline,” she said. “By strengthening both the psychology program and the School of Social Sciences, we are creating an environment where interdisciplinary teaching, research and community engagement prepare graduates to make meaningful contributions in an increasingly interconnected world.”
The restructuring carries distinct benefits for psychology as one of UWG’s largest, most comprehensive and internationally known academic programs, offering undergraduate, master’s and doctoral degrees. Establishing a dedicated school provides focused leadership and strategic planning while creating clearer pathways for prospective students to pursue graduate work.
Beyond its impact on teaching and learning, university leadership believes the realignment will also broaden outreach and external engagement opportunities.
“With the move of criminology and political science to CHASS and with the formation of a new School of Psychology, we have an opportunity to highlight these programs and communicate their importance to donors, alumni and external constituents,” said Dr. Jon Preston, UWG provost. “I see this as an elevation for all programs involved.”
photography by Becca Campbell
