Matthew Laubacher, PhD

Dr. Matthew Laubacher is a professor in the College of Arts and Sciences’ Academic Engagement Center, where he serves as the chair for UAGC’s general education social science courses. He graduated from the University of California, San Diego with bachelor’s degrees in History and Biology, holds a master’s in Education from National University, and a doctorate in History from Arizona State University. He has previously taught at Ashford University, Arizona State University, and Rio Salado College, and in secondary education at Title I schools.

Dr. Laubacher’s main research interests involve the dynamic relationship between science (especially biology) and culture. He enjoys training students to critically examine historical documents as well as our cultural understanding of history. When teaching, Dr. Laubacher focuses heavily on the development and application of student critical thinking skills throughout the course. The number one tip he gives to online students is to develop active reading skills and to make connections with other aspects of course content while reading. Dr. Laubacher lives in Phoenix with his wife, Dr. Jacqueline Ryan-Rojas, who teaches high school theatre, and their three children.