If you have an innate curiosity and passion for human behavior, relationships, and societies, a social science degree could be perfect for you. Earning a social science degree can prepare you for a career in a range of growing industries. Social sciences majors use their skills in various fields, such as archaeology, politics, and communications.
The field of social science offers robust academic opportunities for all degree levels, such as associate, undergraduate, and graduate. Be it any degree level, social science majors can choose to either focus on multiple aspects of the field or specialize in one or more social sciences. Whether you’re just starting your educational journey or ready for an advanced degree, you can conveniently earn an online degree in the social sciences.
We’ve put together this guide to walk you through the best social sciences degrees online. Read on to learn more about the different levels of degrees and majors available, accreditation, career outlook, and how to get into the best social sciences programs online.
Mapping Out Online Degrees in Social Sciences
Your interests, career goals, and previous level of education are the biggest factors to consider when choosing a social sciences degree. At any level, you can choose between general studies in the field, such as a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences from New York University, or degrees in a specific discipline, such as anthropology, economics, or history. Depending on the specific social science you pursue, you’ll find varying career opportunities with different earning potential and, typically, a good return on investment.
Beginning with an Online Associate in Social Sciences
An online associate degree in social science can launch entry-level careers as an assistant or aide. Typically, the goal of an online social sciences associate degree is to help students complete the initial two years of coursework toward a bachelor’s degree while also focusing on foundational coursework specific to the field. Getting an associate degree online can also help you gain clarity on potential future careers and explore higher-level degree options as you continue your education.
Advancing to a Bachelor’s in Social Science
A bachelor’s in social science degree online is a four-year program exploring the nature of societies and human behavior. Social science majors learn more about specific disciplines within social science, such as linguistics, sociology, and political science. This degree is ideal for students who plan to be social workers, political scientists, lawyers, human resources professionals, or psychologists. Future teachers, marketers, or law enforcement officers may find a bachelor’s in social science useful. Many careers require a master’s in social science; there are entry-level careers available to those who have earned a bachelor’s degree.
Navigating to an Online Master’s in Social Sciences
An online master’s degree in the social sciences enables students to earn a specialized degree in the field that helps them meet specific career goals. Many students choose to focus on a particular discipline, such as history or sociology. For example, someone who wants to be a social worker might pursue a master’s degree in social work. An educator who wants to teach the social sciences at the post-secondary level can earn an online master’s in social sciences, such as the one offered by Ohio University. Typically, an online master’s in social sciences takes two years to complete.
Leading Change with an Online Doctorate in Social Science
If you want to earn a doctoral degree in social science, you can choose from either a Doctor of Social Science or a PhD. Only a few universities in North America offer the Doctor of Social Science; PhD programs are much more common.
A PhD in social science prepares students to become leading researchers or educators in the field. Students may choose to do a doctoral program in social sciences or a specific discipline. Often, students develop their own program of interdisciplinary study that draws from multiple university departments. Other students pursue a subject-specific degree, such as a PhD in social work from Walden University.
More Educational Choices in Social Science
If you want to equip yourself with marketable skills in social sciences, you can look at online certificates that are affordable, quick, and convenient. Undergraduate certificates are ideal for those who want to pursue a bachelor’s degree, while graduate certificate programs offer an entry point to advanced education. Professional certificates provide an opportunity to learn targeted, practical skills.
Online Undergraduate Certificates
Undergraduate certificate programs are a great option for students who have graduated with a bachelor’s in social science or an unrelated discipline but haven’t gained much work experience in the field. For example, the University of Maryland Global Campus offers an online undergraduate certificate in applied social sciences that helps students learn how to apply social science tools and thinking to problems in communities, families, or in the workplace. The social science research methods undergraduate certificate at the University of Alabama at Birmingham gives students a foundation in social science research methods so they can prepare for a graduate-level degree in the field or get qualified for an entry-level research career.
Online Graduate Certificates
Social science professionals often take online graduate certificate programs as an alternative to graduate degree programs. If a student decides to continue their education, they’re usually allowed to apply credits earned in a certificate program toward their master’s degree. A graduate student or a professional may choose an online graduate certificate as an option for specialization or leveling up a specific skill.
One example is the social science research methods graduate certificate at Arizona State University, where students learn how to gather and analyze data on human thought and behavior.
Professional Certificates
Professional certificate programs include focused training in a specific subject or career skill. Instead of earning college credit, you receive a professional certificate to verify your knowledge or competency in a given subject area.
Professional certificates are commonly offered on websites such as Coursera, edX, and Udacity. Students typically learn at their own pace, take online quizzes, and complete projects to prove they’ve mastered the information in the program. One example is this program, which is offered in partnership with the University of Amsterdam. When students complete the professional certificate, they earn a digital certificate that they can display on their LinkedIn profile and resume.
Exploring Social Science Majors
The social sciences cover a range of distinct majors and disciplines. The common thread is that they seek to research, understand, and solve problems relating to human behavior and society. As a student in the social sciences, you can choose to study social sciences as a broad discipline or specialize in one particular social science.
Anthropology
Anthropologists study the culture and development of human societies. Classes in anthropology cover topics such as human evolution, societies and civilizations of the past, and how to research and analyze culture and language in modern civilizations. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that most anthropologists need a master’s degree to work in the field.
Archaeology
Archaeology is the study of human culture throughout history. As an archaeology student, you’ll learn the practical aspects of discovering, handling, and evaluating artifacts. You’ll also learn skills – working with primary data, analyzing data, and teamwork – that you can apply to a number of careers. Typically, most employers need archaeologists to have a master’s degree and fieldwork experience.
Economics
Economics students learn how to understand individual and international markets, the economy, and government policies. They also learn to analyze information carefully and think critically and logically to solve problems. According to the BLS, economists need a minimum of a master’s degree to work in the field.
Geography
Geography is the study of Earth’s land and environments and those who live in them. It’s a good option for students who want to blend natural and social science studies. You can become a cartographer, photogrammetrist, or geographer.
History
History is the study of past events. Students explore the events and their causes and effects on society. With a bachelor’s in history, you can pursue entry-level careers in advertising, politics, and teaching at the primary and secondary levels. With a master’s and beyond, you can become a historian or post-secondary educator.
Linguistics
Linguistics is the scientific study of language. Students in this field learn about the structure of language, its representation, and how different aspects of language work together. Linguists work in technology and education as translators or perform research in the field.
Political Science
Political science students learn about government, public policies, and political behavior in the United States and other world regions. They also focus on developing excellent writing, communication, and analytical abilities. After graduation, they often work in business, law, consulting, journalism, or government jobs.
Psychology
Psychology is the study of the human mind. While some students pursue degrees in psychology to become mental health care providers, others become researchers or personality test administrators. A master’s degree is required to become a social worker, counselor, or psychotherapist. Clinical and research psychologists must have doctoral degrees.
Sociology
Sociology majors study human behavior and societies throughout history. They evaluate all types of human interaction, including individuals, groups, communities, and organizations. In general, to work as a sociologist, you’ll need a master’s or PhD degree.
FAQs on Social Science Degrees Online
Before you register for a social science degree online, take your time to research the available programs. This will help you make the best decision for your interests, career goals, and wallet. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions prospective social science students ask.
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Are online social science degree programs accredited?
Yes. When researching social science degree programs, keep an eye out for two different types of accreditation – regional and programmatic. Regional accrediting organizations have the authority to accredit colleges and universities. Additionally, individual programs within a school can carry programmatic accreditation. A programmatic accreditation ensures you’ll receive a quality education meeting industry-specific requirements. In some fields, programmatic education is also a requirement for getting licensed or accepted into graduate programs. For example, the American Psychological Association (APA) accredits doctoral programs in psychology.
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How much can an online social science degree cost?
The cost of your online social science degree will vary depending on the degree level, school, and residential status. Typically, you can expect to pay more per credit hour for higher-level degrees and private colleges and universities. Some schools charge out-of-state and online students a higher tuition rate; others provide a flat, discounted tuition for online students.
The total number of credits included in a degree program can also affect the overall cost. For example, a graduate certificate program can be a more affordable alternative to a full master’s degree since it requires fewer credits at the same rate.
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Is financial aid available for my degree?
Yes, students getting an online social science degree can take advantage of many scholarships. As long as you attend an accredited school, you can fill out a FAFSA application and access most of the financial aid opportunities available to traditional students.
Keep in mind that the social sciences encompass a number of fields. You can explore and find scholarships from professional organizations that are exclusively available to students in your field of social science.
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How much do social science degree holders make?
Your future earnings potential as a social sciences graduate depends on the type of degree you earn and which field you choose to work in. For example, with an associate’s degree in social services, you could become a social and human service assistant, which makes a median annual income of $41,410.
However, an economist who requires a master’s degree earns an average annual wage of $115,730.
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What is the career growth of graduates with social science degrees?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in the life, physical, and social sciences is expected to grow faster than average between now and 2032. The median annual wage for workers in the field in 2023 was $78,280, which was much higher than the median annual wage of $48,060 for all other occupations.
According to the BLS, the employment of sociologists is projected to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. Careers on the rise in the social sciences are growing at 6%, including political scientists, psychologists, and sociologists. To compare career outlooks of social science jobs with other fields, BLS notes that the employment of financial managers tops all occupations at a 16% growth rate. The employment of lawyers and economists is also growing much faster than average.
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What skills and knowledge do I need to be successful in these programs?
Social sciences students have a curiosity about people, their behavior, and how societies work. No matter what you choose to study in the field, strong analytical, critical thinking and research skills will be beneficial. As an online student, you’ll need skills such as time management, self-motivation to keep up with lectures and assignments and strong communication skills to build relationships with peers and professors.
Resources for Future Social Science Majors
Below, we’ve included six helpful resources to help you consider a social sciences degree. Keep reading to find out more about social science associations, program admissions, and other helpful information before you go.
The American Anthropological Association
The American Anthropological Association (AAA) is the world’s leading and largest scholarly and professional organization of anthropologists. On their website, you’ll find industry journals, career planning and professional development services, and support for colleges and universities. The AAA also provides generous scholarship and fellowship awards and a paid summer internship program for college students.
The American Political Science Association
The American Political Science Association (APS) is an international membership organization for those studying and working in political science-related careers. Here, you can find the latest published research. There are also resources to help you learn more about relevant political issues, conduct your own research, and support professional development.
The American Psychological Association
The American Psychological Association (APA) is the premier scientific and professional organization for psychology in the United States. Members include researchers, educators, clinicians, consultants, and students. Here, you can find information on accredited psychology programs and resources for growing your career in the field, as well as keeping yourself up-to-date with the latest standards, ethics, and guidelines.
The American Sociological Association
The American Sociological Association (ASA) is a national professional membership association for sociologists. Members include students, faculty, and people working as sociologists in government agencies, nonprofits, and private organizations. The ASA provides professional journals, an annual meeting, advocacy, and networking opportunities for sociological professionals.
The Social Breakdown Podcast
This podcast is a strong resource for any student of the social sciences. Each episode introduces a different concept or case study from the world of sociology. Episodes include topics ranging from the role of religion in society to food studies to getting a job in sociology.
The University of Oxford Anthropology Podcast
This podcast, presented by the University of Oxford in England, brings together internationally renowned scholars and cutting-edge researchers in the field. Each episode features a talk or conversation on related topics and case studies from around the world.