College Social Sciences - What to expect?

Hey all! I've been thinking about pursuing a degree in social sciences, but I don't know exactly what to expect. How does studying social sciences in college differ from high school, and what specific subjects would I be studying?

Hey there! Pursuing a degree in social sciences is a great choice if you're interested in understanding human society, culture, and behavior. Let me help you get a sense of how studying social sciences in college differs from high school and which subjects you might encounter.

In college, you'll find that social sciences courses are typically more specialized, in-depth, and rigorous compared to those in high school. High school classes often touch on a variety of subjects within the broader scope of social sciences, but in college, you'll have the opportunity to explore specific fields. Additionally, college courses tend to involve more critical thinking, analytical skills, and research work compared to high school classes.

The social sciences encompass a wide range of subjects, including:

1. Anthropology: The study of human societies and cultures, exploring topics such as social structures, customs, and human evolution.

2. Sociology: The examination of social behavior, social institutions, and their overall impact on society.

3. Political Science: The analysis of political systems, behavior, and policies, spanning areas like international relations, political theory, and comparative politics.

4. Psychology: The scientific study of human behavior and mental processes, including cognition, emotion, motivation, and development.

5. Economics: The investigation of supply, demand, and resource allocation within markets, societies, and global systems.

6. Geography: The exploration of human and physical landscapes, focusing on spatial relationships, patterns, and impacts on the environment. Human geography, a sub-field, specifically studies the social aspects of human life, such as migration, urbanization, and patterns of settlement.

7. History: The examination of past events, cultures, and societies, aiming to interpret their significance and develop historical perspectives.

8. Criminology: The evaluation of criminal behavior, law enforcement, and the criminal justice system, ranging from theories of crime to crime control policies.

As a social sciences major, you'll often have the opportunity to customize your curriculum based on your interests. You might choose a specific concentration or follow a more interdisciplinary approach, combining different social sciences or incorporating complementary fields, such as data analysis, public policy, or communications. The skills acquired in a social sciences program are versatile, fostering critical thinking, research, and communication abilities that can be applied across various professions.

I hope this gives you a better understanding of what you can expect while studying social sciences in college. Good luck on your academic journey!