Organizations

As our knowledge continues to grow, academic fields that once seemed simple are becoming much more complex. Engineering, for example has grown from a single discipline into many related subfields. People now study chemical engineering or electrical engineering rather than simple engineering. With many subjects following similar trends, scholars need quick sources of information to stay current. For them professional societies are the best option to connect with others in the same discipline and access information through journals and conferences.

Professional organizations are especially necessary in rapidly changing fields like medicine and law. A doctor who uses the wrong tool for the job is at best misinformed and at worst could lose their license for malpractice. These specialists need to constantly expand their knowledge and keep up with best practices. Even in the humanities the learned associations play a large role. They shape the discourse of current debates, explore new topics and act as a forum for scholars to discuss their ideas. For anyone seriously involved at the edge of current knowledge a quality organization is an indispensable resource.

Resources

  • American Chemical Society

    The largest body of professional chemists and related scientists in the United States. Their offerings include annual meetings, educational conferences, an online job board and a broad range of journals.

  • AcademyHealth

    Spreads knowledge about the process of health care in the United States. They publish journals, provide support for members and lobby for greater awareness.

  • Academy of Management

    Works with businesses and organizations to improve leadership around the world. Membership includes access to the four journals they distribute, a newsletter and job assistance.

  • American Public Health Association

    Includes professionals in epidemiology, medicine and statistics who work to keep us healthy. They work to track the spread of diseases through research, policy promotion and events.

  • Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations

    Works with architects and engineers to design tomorrow’s cityscapes. Their research and literature exposes efficient ways to use our metropolitan areas to their maximum potential.

  • American Philosophical Association

    Identifies the current issues in philosophy through their publications. Their Jobs for Philosophers quarterly is a great resource in a notoriously difficult field for employment.

  • Association of Literary Scholars, Critics and Writers

    This broadly involved group publishes a journal and newsletter to recognize great works and discuss the literary professions.

  • World History Association

    Explores our past through comparisons of different cultures and civilizations. They host conferences, conduct research and provide resources for teachers to use.

  • The American Communication Association

    Functions through The American Communication Journal and textbook publications. They study communication in all forms, from speech to writing to broadcast media.

  • American Academy of Religion

    Researches religions from around the world to spread knowledge of human spirituality. Their findings are published in their journal and newsletter and sustain their members along with meetings and education programs.

  • American Institute of Architects

    Supports innovative building design and construction with their education programs and online resources. Their members benefit from association with this renowned organization.

  • Center for National Security Studies

    Investigates injustices perpetrated in the name of national security. Their articles question the necessity of security measures at the expense of liberty.