Introduction
The social sciences investigate how individuals interact with one another and with their surroundings. The broad phrase spans a wide range of disciplines, including psychology, sociology, and economics. Students in social sciences degrees develop broad abilities that can be used in professions in a variety of sectors.
Social science is a powerful academic foundation that provides you with the opportunity to develop skills employers value in employees. These include: oral and written communication, interpersonal, teamwork, technical, analytical, critical thinking, organizational, and problem solving skills. Social scientists work in business, government, and non-profit organizations. A social science degree confers knowledge, skills, and ways of thinking that open up a wide range of job prospects.
Contrary to popular belief, social science graduates earn roughly the same as STEM graduates and more than those who majored in humanities and arts.
Social Science Majors
Careers in Social Science
Sociologist
Sociologists are interested in how people interact in society. They plan research initiatives and gather information through surveys, observations, and interviews. They then evaluate the data in order to draw conclusions that can influence policy decisions or community responses to societal issues such as health, crime, and poverty. Survey researcher, statistician, and demographer are all related jobs. A master’s or doctorate degree may be required in this sector.
Criminal justice professional
A criminal justice concentration prepares students for a variety of vocations in the justice and prison systems. For example, probation officials assist ex-offenders in establishing new lives after being released from prison. They provide random drug tests, provide substance misuse counseling, and testify in court regarding the treatment plan and success of a probationer.
Economist
Economists examine money, employment, worker productivity, and wage data. Their work assists government agencies and politicians in determining the economic impact of certain behaviors and policies. These experts can assist businesses in determining consumer demand and setting service pricing. The majority of economists must have a master’s or doctoral degree.
Social worker
Social workers assist their clients in overcoming obstacles. They assess needs and link them to organizations and institutions that can help them. Government agencies, hospitals, and non-profit groups may employ social workers. Most states demand a state license as well as a bachelor’s degree or above.
Some social workers provide counseling and mental health therapy. To be eligible for licensure, these positions require a master’s degree and supervised practice.
Political scientist
Political scientists investigate national politics, comparative politics, and political theory using quantitative and qualitative research methodologies. They keep an eye on current events and policy decisions. Their work aids in the prediction of political, social, and economic developments. The federal government employs the greatest number of political scientists.