College of Social Sciences and Public Policy
The College of Social Sciences and Public Policy was established in the fall of 1973 as part of a university-wide academic reorganization and consisted of just five departments: Economics, Geography, Government, Sociology, and Urban and Regional Planning.
There’s been much growth over the years, with 12 departments and interdisciplinary programs now housed within the College, along with 12 centers and institutes. As the third-largest college at FSU, COSSPP equips students with the knowledge, skills, and real-world experiences they need to launch impactful careers.
COSSPP History Series
Since its creation in 1973, COSSPP has grown into the third-largest college at FSU, preparing students with the knowledge, skills, and real-world experiences they need to launch impactful careers.
Learn more about what our programs, departments, and the college has accomplished over 50 years.
We’re proud of the successes of our 50,000+ alumni worldwide working to address
the world’s challenges and better their communities.
November 12, 2025
FSU Student Star, Miguel Arceo-Miranda, is committed to making political education and information more accessible through research, fundraising, and volunteering. …
November 12, 2025
Woody Harvey – an FSU alumnus (B.S. Interdisciplinary Social Science ’18) – was named contract manager for Florida’s Statewide Emergency Mass Notification Contract. …
November 10, 2025
Madelyn Luther is a dedicated pre-law student who is committed to finding the overlap between her passions for writing, climate justice and law. …

Your philanthropy makes it possible for us to provide opportunities for students that cannot be covered by State of Florida funds. The College uses private contributions to deliver programming under the College’s Get More Than a Degree initiative that supports student intellectual growth and professional development.
We are grateful to each of our donors for their interest and investments in our students and work. Thanks to you, we are not just turning out graduates; we are producing leaders ready to take on the challenges of an ever-changing world.
Our Senior Director of Development Katherine Cline Ashler would love to connect with you to identify how to make a meaningful impact in your area of interest. Please email her at kcline@foundation.fsu.edu or call 850-294-3343.