The Humanities and Social Studies Center (HSSC) brings multiple departments together in one building to create innovative learning spaces that encourage multi-disciplinary collaboration, active inquiry, student research, and "intellectual collisions" — the idea that the best insights happen when different subjects overlap.
The complex houses the humanities (excluding fine arts) and social studies departments, 39 technology-rich classrooms and inquiry labs, and 145 faculty offices and dedicated research spaces which are grouped into five interdisciplinary neighborhoods.
Adaptive spaces with mobile furniture allow classes to switch instantly from a group discussion to a global video conference or hands-on data analysis. The Kenneth A. Christiansen spaces allow for outdoor classes that still have full access to Wi-Fi and power.