Our social science disciplines apply both quantitative scientific and interpretive humanistic methodologies to study diverse patterns of human behavior, social structures and cultural and social change. Our highly-ranked Social Sciences departments produce research and scholarship that advance their respective fields and the university's goal of knowledge in service of society.

In addition, Duke's interpretive social sciences have distinguished themselves internationally with research addressing important global cultural themes related to gender, race, ethnicity, sexuality, citizenship/nationality, social exclusion, social inequality, social movements, diaspora, health, religion, and artistic expression, among other factors.