Labor Studies
As a student of labor studies you will examine the topics of work, workers and worker organizations. You will study the history of the labor movement, labor law and collective bargaining, and focus on current problems and policies generated by changes in the global economy, technology, the workforce and the workplace.
You will sharpen your skills in writing and research and critical reading and thinking, as, together with a faculty mentor, you create a program to meet your specific needs and goals.
Labor studies is offered through The Harry Van Arsdale, Jr. School of Labor Studies in New York City and Online.
Why choose a degree in labor studies?
Students pursue a degree in labor studies in order to prepare for:
- Increased responsibilities in their present position
- new careers in areas such as labor-management relations and human resources
- graduate school, especially in labor studies
- law school
- policy development
- business sector
- government service
- teaching
Degrees Available
As a regionally accredited college of the State University of New York, Empire State College offers the following related degrees in five areas — labor studies, cultural studies, historical studies, interdisciplinary studies and social science:
- Associate in Arts
- Associate in Science
- Bachelor of Arts
- Bachelor of Science
- Bachelor of Professional Studies
The Harry Van Arsdale, Jr. School of Labor Studies in New York City provides degree-completion opportunities for wage earners and union members in their chosen field, such as electrical construction or para-education.
Graduate Studies
An advanced graduate certificate in labor studies is available, as well as a Master of Arts in Work and Labor Policy.
Nondegree Study
Taking individual courses as a nondegree student is also possible and will offer you the same range and depth of courses and rigorous standards as matriculated undergraduate students.
Popular Concentrations
- general labor history
- labor studies
- labor-management relations
This interdisciplinary field draws on the methodologies and subject matter of the social sciences and humanities and other interdisciplinary areas, such as American studies, women’s studies and African-American studies.