What is a social science major? Your guide to courses and careers

Key takeaways about a social science major

• Social science majors study human behavior, society, and institutions.
• Popular specializations include psychology, sociology, economics, and political science.
• Courses cover research methods, data analysis, and social theory.
• Common career paths include education, public policy, research, and business.
• Salaries vary widely, with many roles earning above the national median.

So, what is a social science major?

Think of a social science major as your gateway to understanding how people behave, interact, and shape the world around them. It’s a broad field that dives into human society—from how governments work to why people make certain decisions. If you’re curious about culture, politics, economics, or psychology, this major might be your vibe.

Types of social science majors

Social science isn’t just one thing—it’s a whole squad of disciplines. Here are some of the most popular:

• Psychology – the study of the mind and behavior.
• Sociology – explores social structures, relationships, and institutions.
• Political science – focuses on government systems and political behavior.
• Economics – analyzes how resources are produced, distributed, and consumed.
• Anthropology – studies human cultures, past and present.
• Geography – looks at human and physical landscapes and how they interact.

What courses will I take as a social science major?

Your classes will depend on your specialization, but most social science majors take:

• Intro to social science
• Research methods and statistics
• Social theory
• Courses specific to your focus (like microeconomics or abnormal psychology)

You’ll also likely do projects, presentations, and maybe even fieldwork or internships.

What can I pair with a social science major?

Double majors and minors are super common in this field. Some popular combos include:

• Social science + data science – great for research or analytics roles.
• Social science + education – perfect if you want to teach.
• Social science + communications – ideal for media, PR, or marketing.
• Social science + business – opens doors in HR, consulting, or management.

What skills will I learn as a social science major?

Social science majors build a solid toolkit of skills that employers love:

• Critical thinking and problem-solving
• Research and data analysis
• Communication and writing
• Understanding diverse perspectives
• Collaboration and teamwork

Popular careers for social science majors

Social science majors go on to do all kinds of cool stuff. Here are a few career paths:

• Policy analyst
• Market researcher
• Social worker
• Human resources specialist
• Urban planner
• Teacher or education administrator
• Sociologist or psychologist (with advanced degrees)

How much will I earn with a social science degree?

Salaries vary depending on your role and education level. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for life, physical, and social science occupations was around $79,000 in 2024. For example, sociologists earned a median of around $100,000, while social scientists and related workers earned around $102,000. Entry-level roles may start lower, but many positions offer strong growth potential.

Notable schools for social science majors

If you're looking for a college with a strong social science program, you're in luck—many top universities offer excellent options across disciplines like psychology, sociology, economics, and political science. These schools are known for their research opportunities, faculty expertise, and interdisciplinary programs:

• Harvard University – Offers world-class programs in economics, government, and sociology.
• Stanford University – Known for its innovative research and interdisciplinary approach to social sciences.
• University of California, Berkeley – Home to 15 departments focused on society and human behavior.
• University of Michigan, Ann Arbor – Combines large-scale research with personalized learning experiences.
• Columbia University – Offers diverse cultural experiences and strong networking opportunities in social science fields.
• Johns Hopkins University – Emphasizes hands-on learning and community engagement in urban social issues. 
• University of Chicago – Renowned for its rigorous academic environment and social theory programs. 

Use tools like Scout College Search to explore more schools that match your interests and goals. Whether you're aiming for a large research university or a smaller liberal arts college, there's a program out there that fits your vibe and career aspirations.

Ready to explore your options?

If you’re thinking about majoring in social science, you’re setting yourself up for a degree that’s flexible, relevant, and full of possibilities. Whether you want to work in government, education, business, or nonprofits, this major gives you the tools to understand people and systems—and make a real impact. Don’t forget to check out scholarships for social science majors, including the Scholly Scholarships and the $2K No Essay Scholarship to help fund your journey.