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What Are Social Science Classes? Your First Step to a Rewarding Career

Did you know that professionals in social sciences shape policies that impact millions of people daily? From economists advising governments to urban planners designing cities, social sciences play a crucial role in our world.

Social sciences classes provide insight into how people interact, how institutions function and how policies shape our daily lives. Whether you want to work in public policy, research, education or community development, taking classes in the social sciences is your first step toward a meaningful and impactful career.

What Is Social Science?

Social science is a broad field of study that examines human behavior, relationships and societal structures. It is an interdisciplinary area that draws from multiple fields such as sociology, psychology, political science, economics and anthropology. Social science explores how people interact with each other and their environment, analyzing trends, institutions and cultural patterns that shape our world.

Studying social science gives you valuable insights into human decision-making, governance and societal development. This field of study provides essential tools for addressing real-world issues, such as inequality, economic stability and political systems. 

What Are Social Science Classes?

Classes that encompass social sciences focus on the study of human behavior, societies and institutions. They help you gain a deeper understanding of how individuals and groups function within society as well as how to analyze data, interpret trends and develop informed solutions to societal challenges. Social science fields are interconnected, and studying them can provide you with the critical thinking, research and analytical skills employers seek.

Some of the key disciplines covered by social science classes include:

  • Psychology: The study of human behavior, emotions and cognitive processes.
  • Sociology: Examining social structures, relationships and cultural norms.
  • Political Science: Understanding governments, policies and international relations.
  • Economics: Analyzing how resources are distributed and financial systems operate.
  • History: Investigating past events and their influence on the present and future.

Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) offers social science classes that lead to four associate degrees, preparing you for careers in public policy, research, planning, education, community development and more.

How Do Social Sciences Classes Prepare You for Your Career?

Studying the social sciences prepares you for careers across many industries. Social science classes, like those offered at NOVA, help you develop:

  • Analytical and research skills to collect, assess and interpret data, making you a valuable asset in research-driven fields.
  • Communication abilities to strengthen writing, presenting and debating skills for careers in policy, law and education.
  • Problem-solving capabilities to analyze real-world issues and develop solutions for business, government and nonprofit sectors.
  • Career readiness with insights, knowledge and skills applicable to fields like social work, urban planning, law and business.

Take Social Sciences Classes to Open Up Career Options

Social science classes in your degree program help you develop a broad understanding of human behavior, society and cultural dynamics. With this foundation, you can pursue career opportunities in government, education, business and nonprofit sectors. 

According to Lightcast, a labor market analytics firm, there are 1,776 entry-level jobs available in the NOVA service areas with starting salaries ranging from $46,000 to $65,000. Here are some career areas to consider:

  • Social and community services
  • Research and analysis
  • Education and academia
  • Government and public policy
  • Business and marketing
  • Law and criminal justice
  • Media and communications
  • International relations and development

Curious about specific career paths you can pursue with a social science degree? Discover how NOVA’s social sciences associate degrees can help you prepare for an exciting future.

What Are Social Science Classes Like at NOVA?

NOVA offers you a wide range of social science classes that will prepare you for your chosen career. As a NOVA social sciences student, you’ll develop the solid foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed in your career or pursue a four-year degree. NOVA offers these four associate degree programs:

Study how humans relate to each other and the world. You’ll develop research and communication skills, along with an understanding of beliefs, social customs and institutions. After graduating, you’ll be prepared to enter the workforce or 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. Courses include:

  • Introduction to Digital and Information Literacy and Computer Applications
  • Introduction to Human Communication
  • Principles of Psychology or Introduction to Sociology
  • Social/Behavioral Sciences Electives

Learn American Sign Language (ASL) as you lay the foundation for entering the workforce or seamlessly transferring to a four-year degree program. You’ll develop an understanding of communication, Deaf community history, linguistics and more. With your degree, you’ll be prepared to apply these skills in human services, education, linguistics, speech-language pathology, social work and other areas. Courses include:

  • Advanced American Sign Language
  • Introduction to Human Communication
  • History of the U.S. Deaf Community
  • Comparative Linguistics: ASL and English

Study the basics of geospatial technologies and how you can put your knowledge to use in your career. Your coursework will encompass geography, geographical information systems, cartography and more. This program is designed to prepare you for entering the workforce or continuing your education through transferring to a bachelor’s program in geospatial or social sciences. Courses include:

  • Introduction to Geospatial Technology
  • Geographical Information Systems
  • Introduction to Digital and Information Literacy and Computer Applications
  • Introduction to Physical Geography

Enhance your understanding of U.S. and international governments in this encompassing 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 enter the workforce through a number of entry-level job opportunities or transfer to a bachelor’s program in political science, history or social sciences. Courses include:

  • U.S. Government and Politics
  • Introduction to International Relations
  • State and Local Government and Politics
  • Introduction to Comparative Politics
  • Introduction to Political and Democratic Theory

Why Choose NOVA for Social Sciences?

At NOVA, the social science classes in your associate degree program equip you with the knowledge and skills to continue your education or step into a meaningful career. With an affordable education and a strong foundation in social sciences, you'll be well-prepared for what’s next. Plus, you’ll benefit from:

You’ll learn from dedicated social sciences faculty who are committed to preparing you for success.

You’ll take courses that set the foundation for your career in a range of fields, such as geographic information systems, political science, psychology and sociology.

You’ll receive a quality education at an affordable cost, with the opportunity to qualify for NOVA scholarships to help reduce tuition expenses.

Take Your Next Step Toward Earning Your Social Sciences Degree

Now that you have the answer to “what are social science classes,” you can see how they equip you with the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact. Whether you're interested in public policy, research or community work, earning your social sciences degree at NOVA prepares you for further education or to begin your career.

YOUR NEXT STEPS TO NOVA