Social Science Degree

Social science is a major branch of science that deals with relationships between individuals or groups in the society. The field integrates various disciplines of political science, demography, sociology, human geography, and economics. Social science has gained popularity in recent years as cultures have become more integrated. Professionals such as social scientists have contributed to the field through research and studies. By understanding factors and their influence on human relationships, organizations and groups are working towards improving the community and lifestyles of individuals.

Social science has become a highly sought after major, and can be pursued at bachelor, master, and PhD level. Students are opting for social science courses due to many diverse career opportunities that come with it. Social work, teaching, and research are just a few sectors that one can work in with a social science degree. If you are intrigued with how the society works, and want to help develop solutions to social problems, this field may be a suitable choice for you.

This is a four-year undergraduate program. It is offered by a number of traditional and online colleges and universities. The purpose of the degree is to provide students with in-depth knowledge of social science and its use in the society. The program will focus on fundamental concept development and will cover interdisciplinary areas such as psychology and sociology.
During the initial semesters, students will learn about the history and development of the field, and various social scientists who have contributed to it. Further in the program, more advanced subjects will be studied. Students will learn how to use different research methodologies for conducting social research. Here are some of the courses covered in a bachelor of social science degree:

• Gerontology
• Anthropology
• Research methods in social sciences
• Diversity awareness
• Technology in society
• Disabilities studies

Undergraduates who wish to prepare for a career in social sciences can opt for a master’s degree in the field. This is a two year program that integrates knowledge from different social science disciplines such as economics, geography, anthropology, political science, and sociology.
Students enrolled in the program will develop strong research skills and can choose an area for specialization. They will be required to cover a set of general courses and choose a specialization track according to their career goals. Please remember that the optional tracks available will vary from college to college. Here are some common areas covered in the degree:

• Elements of social thought
• Philosophical problems in the society
• Research methods
• Social justice
• Anthropology

A PhD in social science is the highest level of education one can attain in this field. The program is designed for graduate students who wish to prepare for research or leadership roles in the community. Students will learn how to conduct quantitative and qualitative research in the broad context of social sciences.
The program will be divided into coursework, oral examination, research project, and dissertation. The coursework mainly comprises of theory building and concept development. Students will study:

• Political economy
• History
• Economics
• Political science
• Law
• Social issues

After passing an oral examination, students can begin their research project on any chosen discipline. The research project is intended to help students apply research methodologies and understand how to appropriately gather and process information. The last phase of the degree consists of writing  dissertation.  These degree requirements are covered under the supervision of a faculty member.  The average duration of the program can range anywhere between 4 to 8 years.

Individuals who are working and cannot enroll in a full-time program can pursue an online social science degree. Online social science courses are easier to cover, without the requirement of being physically present in classrooms. This mode of learning allows students to study from any location.

• Use quantitative and qualitative scientific research methods
• Develop strong theoretical perspectives
• Learn how economic factors affect social lives of community members
• Develop critical thinking skills and communication skills
• Understand the ethical principles that guide research work for social scientists
• Learn how to gather and process information
• Learn how to solve practical social problems

The admission requirements typically vary from college to college. Students can check with prospective schools to find out more about the admission criteria. However, general requirements are:
For bachelor of social sciences:

• High school diploma
• Letters of recommendation

For master of social sciences:

• Bachelor degree transcript
• A minimum CGPA requirement
• Letters of recommendation

For PhD in social sciences:

• Master degree transcript
• A minimum CGPA requirement
• Letters of recommendation

The type of career and income level you can qualify for depend upon the degree you have earned, your area of specialization, and skill set. Numerous careers fall under the category of social science. Some individuals choose to engage directly with the community as social workers, while others tend to pursue more administrative positions in government agencies.
The following statistics have been taken from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

• Social worker – median annual income - $44,200 (2012)
• Survey researcher – median annual income - $45,950 (2012)
• Anthropologist – median annual income - $57,420 (2012)
• Post-secondary sociology teacher – mean annual wage - $74,860 (2014)
• Economist – median annual income - $91,860 (2012)

The job description and duties will vary. Choosing a career in social science can qualify you to help others, promote welfare, and improve living conditions for many. These careers can be challenging yet give you a sense of achievement.