Organizational Studies

Organizational Studies

Students involved in the Organizational Studies program study the theoretical basis for organizational participation, leadership, and human interaction.

Guiding the program is the premise that organizations need persons capable of examining problems with a critical and imaginative eye and of responding with policies, actions and decisions derived from a broad knowledge base. By the time they have completed the program students have developed:

• an understanding of the human condition as it is experienced in organizational life
• an understanding of the complex nature of systems and institutions
• the capacity for analysis that moves beyond simplistic solutions to explore the interplay of values, responsibility and the achievement of social goals.

 

Organization Studies Certification

In order to fulfill the requirements for certification in organizational studies, students must accomplish the following:

Complete three core courses; one from each of the two major content areas and a third from either content area:

1. The Individual Within the Organization. Students examine the following issues:
   • how individuals acquire, develop and use knowledge in organizational settings
   • how individuals communicate in the process of social interaction
   • how individuals gain an overview of the nature and foundations of sociocultural behavior.
2. Organizational Processes and Social Organizing. Students concentrate on either the broad nature of social organizing or a specific aspect of organizational life.
3. In lieu of one of the core courses, a student may complete:
   • a director-approved senior research/honors project
   • a directed study
   • a course elective approved by the director.
4. Complete Organizational Psychology
5. Participate successfully in a month-long summer session following their sophomore or junior year
6. Complete an appropriate internship following the summer session
7. Write an integrative paper upon completion of the internship

The summer session focuses on the application of organizational skills. Students learn to interpret the problems faced by organizations in both the private and public sectors. In addition, students consult with local organizations and investigate various solutions to their problems. We rely heavily on exceptional Denison alumni to share their knowledge, insights, and experiences during the summer session.

What do our Students do After Denison?

A liberal arts education combined with the unique skills learned by OS students has enabled them to go on to challenging positions in both the public and private sectors. Program graduates are involved in careers ranging from advertising and investment banking to museum management and non-profit fundraising.

Who are Our Professors?

Associate Professor of Psychology David P. J. Przybyla directs the Organizational Studies program. He earned a B.A. at the State University of New York, an M.S. at Purdue University and a Ph.D. at the State University of New York, Albany. Przybyla teaches Social Psychology, Organizational Psychology, and Human Sexuality. His current research program includes the study of physical attractiveness variables as they affect functioning in organizations and the study of brand personality.

In addition, professors in many departments teach classes that help fulfill the requirements for certification in organizational studies.

For more information about the program and curriculum, go to:

Organizational Studies Program

or contact:

David P. J. Przybyla
Organizational Studies Program
Burton Morgan Center, Room 406
Denison University
Granville, Ohio 43023

Phone:  (740) 587-6308
E-mail:   przybyla@denison.edu