Social Sciences

Students in Classroom

EXPLORE THE HUMAN EXPERIENCE AND DEVELOP SKILLS IN THE SCIENCES

Delve into the complexities of human society and behavior by studying social sciences at NOVA. You can choose from the following degrees and specializations.

AVAILABLE PROGRAMS

Associate Degree in Social Sciences

Learn how humans relate to each other and the world with NOVA’s Associate of Science (AS) in Social Sciences degree. You’ll develop research and communication skills, along with an understanding of beliefs, social customs and institutions. After graduation, you’ll be prepared to transfer to a broad range of bachelor’s programs in fields such as economics, geography, geographic information systems, history, political science, psychology, sociology and teacher education.

Length
Two Years
Credits
60
Locations
Alexandria, Annandale, Loudoun, Manassas, Woodbridge, Online
Curriculum Details

Associate Degree in Social Sciences: Deaf Studies

Learn American Sign Language (ASL) and lay the foundation for four-year programs with NOVA’s Associate of Science (AS) in Social Sciences: Deaf Studies. You’ll develop an understanding of communication, Deaf community history, linguistics and more. After graduation, you’ll be prepared to apply these skills in human services or education and transfer to bachelor’s programs in ASL instruction, Deaf education, linguistics, speech-language pathology and social work.

Length
Two Years
Credits
62
Locations
Annandale
Curriculum Details

Associate Degree in Social Sciences: Geospatial

Learn the basics of geospatial technologies and how they are used in NOVA’s Associate of Science (AS) in Social Sciences: Geospatial program. You’ll study geography, geographical information systems, cartography and more. This program is designed to prepare you for bachelor’s programs in geospatial or social sciences. 

Length
Two Years
Credits
62-63
Locations
Loudoun
Curriculum Details

Associate Degree in Social Sciences: Political Science

Enhance your understanding of U.S. and international governments in NOVA’s Associate of Science (AS) in Social Sciences: Political Science degree program. In the program, you’ll critically analyze power relationships in international relations, American politics, and state and local politics. You’ll be prepared to transfer to bachelor’s programs in political science, history or social sciences after graduation.

Length
Two Years
Credits
64
Locations
Alexandria, Loudoun
Curriculum Details

WHY STUDY SOCIAL SCIENCES AT NOVA?

Passionate Social Sciences Faculty

You’ll learn from dedicated social sciences faculty who are committed to preparing you for success at four-year institutions and beyond.

Relevant Social Sciences Courses

You’ll take classes that set the foundation for programs or employment in numerous disciplines, including geographic information systems, political science, psychology and sociology. 

Affordable Social Sciences Programs

You’ll receive an affordable social sciences education. You may even qualify for NOVA scholarships to offset the cost of your associate degree. 

Accreditations

Northern Virginia Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees in social sciences.

SOCIAL SCIENCES PROGRAM CAREER OUTCOMES

By studying social sciences at NOVA, you’ll develop the critical thinking, writing, and qualitative and quantitative research skills you need to transfer into a bachelor’s program at a four-year institution. Career opportunities available after gaining a four-year degree include geographer, climate change policy analyst, transportation planner, social science research assistant and social service assistant.

Credits and
Transfer Info

Credit for Prior Learning

Credit for prior learning (CPL) generally refers to the process of granting college credit for learning gained in nontraditional ways, including but not limited to: certifications, AP or IB exams, military training, or life experience.

Transferring

Learn more about possible transfer opportunities associated with this program of study. Students interested in transferring should contact an advisor or counselor to further discuss their plans.

Your Next Steps to NOVA