20 Best Colleges for Social Sciences in the World Rankings

Studying any social science programs is a good way to secure a career. Even though the value of studying any discipline in social sciences is often on debate, but it doesn’t stop it from being one of the best and most profitable fields.

Because social sciences examine and explain human beings, which makes it a heavy subject. That is why you need to study this course in one of the best colleges in the world we have in our 2023 rankings.

The many ways a student can use a social science degree are as varied as the types of people who populate the world from pole to pole. Even though it can be as limited as studying the functioning of an individual mind or as broad as studying the functioning of a section of people as a whole.

Hence, if you’re curious about the world or how people fare in everyday life, a social science major can open up new possibilities for your career prospects.

Social science subjects allow a student to explore inner gazes through psychology or a particular society. The social science subjects have prepared the first cycle to deepen the areas of interest that arouse their passion.

What are Humanities and Social Sciences Programs Like?

Bachelor Degree Programs in Social Sciences

A general bachelor’s degree in social sciences covers subjects and courses common to disciplines. Such as statistics, research methods, sociology, basic economics, history, professional communication, and philosophy. These common core courses are useful for any student pursuing a career in which professional analysis and communication are required or when data and research are needed.

Also, a bachelor’s degree in social sciences helps you pursue various careers. Choosing a political science subfield can lead to careers in state politics or placement in a high-level law school.

Meanwhile, a concentration in sociology can lead to scientific research on human nature or market research for a large commercial company. However, a bachelor of science degree specializing in psychology could also lead to a career as a therapist or consultant.

Finally, social science bachelor’s degrees are designed to provide a broad set of knowledge and a field of expertise applicable to a wide range of problems and careers. Many programs have high-level projects or theses to consolidate these ideas into a final cornerstone.

Social Sciences Masters/Graduate Programs

Truly, master’s programs in social sciences prepare students for various careers, including anthropology, history, law, public policy, social work, public health, and business.

Applicants for master’s degree programs in social sciences generally must have a bachelor’s degree. However, some schools favor candidates who have already taken social and behavioral sciences, research, and statistics courses. Some programs have residency orientation sessions that students must attend before classes begin.

Above all, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has stated that growth in employment in the social sciences is likely to vary by individual specialty (www.bls.gov). For example, the BLS predicted that employment for anthropologists would increase by 10% between 2018 and 2028, while job growth for historians would be around 6%.

Social Sciences Doctoral Programs

A PhD is generally the highest attainable level of education in the humanities and social sciences, conferring advanced knowledge in a highly specialized field. Completion times vary widely, but the doctorate. The programs usually last from 5 to 7 years. Many programs require a candidate to have a master’s degree, although some may admit highly qualified candidates with a bachelor’s degree.

As a student pursuing a doctorate in social science, you could acquire interdisciplinary knowledge through courses and participation in seminars on a variety of topics. A master’s and doctoral program student combines the study of medicine and the social sciences in exploring health problems. Students can choose from various fields of study, such as cognitive neuroscience, behavioral economics, or political theory. Most programs require a thesis.

Candidates for an M.D.- Ph.D. The program generally must have a bachelor’s degree and meet the requirements for acceptance into medical school, including earning a certain score on a standardized test. Students in these programs generally focus on a topic relevant to medical practice, such as health policy or medical anthropology, but there are other options.

Graduates with a doctorate. Social science degrees may pursue an academic or research career. They may also assume leadership roles in public service or public policy administration. Graduated from an M.D.- Ph.D. Program might consider a career as a professor or researcher in a hospital or pharmaceutical company.

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Why You Should Study Humanities and Social Sciences?

A degree in humanities and social sciences can be very different, but they all have one thing in common: they focus on human life. While the subjects in the human sciences are mainly analytical or philosophical, the subjects in the social sciences are more scientific and experimental.

A humanities and social science degree could become a much more rewarding course for people who need to keep their options open and are deeply interested in how the world works.

There are good reasons why you should study humanities or social sciences. But out of all the reasons, there are 4 major reasons to study social sciences you should bear in mind always. This alone can give you an edge over other students.

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Rewarding Careers

The fact that talents acquired by studying humanities and social sciences can be functional at all levels of life makes occupations rewarding. Graduates can be educators, policymakers, international development experts, and journalists with this degree.

The career involved in studying any program in social science is vast, and that is the main point. So if you ask what kind of career you can get with a social science degree, then you should know that they are quite much. Careers in any field of social science are quite increasing with time.

Flexible Degree Options

There is greater course flexibility in individual and combined specialization degree, especially the online platform. So you can personalize your studies according to your passions.

Above all, pursuing a human and social sciences degree offers adaptability at some levels. These are some great areas where you can get thousands of job opportunities. Many resources offer numerous programs at the graduate and undergraduate levels, regularly combining language delivery and discipline.

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Significant Abilities

Humanities and social science degrees provide graduates with basic skills that remain with them throughout their professional and personal lives. Above all, graduates build reasoning, inquiry, presentation, and basic logic skills throughout their degrees.

Also, graduates in the humanities and sociology have a deep understanding of how society works. And there is a widespread opinion that no association can work in a viable way without them.

As many graduates manufacture the latest technologies, it is they who have considered the humanities that apply these advances to the world around us.

Adaptable Graduate

At the end of the program, an individual will develop a wide variety of transferable skills for many careers, including research, evaluation, analysis, and communication skills.

Due to the invaluable skills mentioned above, graduates in the humanities and sociology are exceptionally appreciated by employers. Countless critics have shown that most bosses prefer oral and compound correspondence, critical thinking, and basic reasoning over functional ability.

But in all, graduates from this field are top-notch.

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What Does Humanities and Social Sciences Graduate Do?

What can you do with a humanities and social science degree? This is one question that most people who are unsure whether they should study Social sciences ask. The truth is that this is one way a student usually ventures to study any course. First, they examine the possible job outlook of social science graduates before even considering studying the course.

However, some students often desire to study the course right from the beginning. They just might ask, “What can you do with a humanities and social science degree?” to get a clearer view.

If any of the above situations is your case, then you are just in the right place. You can do a lot with a degree in any social sciences field.

Firstly, social science degrees offer a wide range of professional careers for graduates. Most importantly, the social science courses you take to earn a degree will dictate how you can use your degree professionally.

Graduates of social sciences programs are generally employed in their chosen field within four years of graduation. They tend to land management, education, and senior government positions in companies, government agencies or national non-profit organizations.

Whether you want to find a job focused on a topic that affects the human race or want to learn more about topics that affect the world population, social science topics are united in your interest in people.

The following is the list of social science jobs you can start up with ease after graduation:

  • Advice Worker
  • Civil Service Careers
  • Charity Officer
  • Community Development Worker
  • Community Education Officer
  • Family Support Worker
  • Human Resources Officer
  • Legal Careers
  • Local Government Careers
  • Mediator
  • Police Officer
  • Prison Officer
  • Probation Officer
  • Psychologist
  • Social Researcher
  • Social Worker

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What Do Colleges Consider in Social Sciences?

Social sciences degree requirements differ because each school has what they expect from you. This alone has made it quite difficult to figure out what exactly colleges require from any student who wants to study any field of social sciences.

However, applicants must complete the basic affirmation requirements, which include having completed at least six credit hours in English, Psychology, and Sociology. Or any other related course counterparts from other post-optional organizations with accreditation. Either way must have officially completed a bachelor’s degree program from a reputable school.

The curriculum presented to a student when pursuing a social science degree provides a solid academic foundation and skills that will serve the graduate well. These include:

Here is the list of skills that are required for humanities and social sciences:

  • Relational skills
  • Initiative skills
  • Diagnostic skills
  • Measurements and research outline
  • Computer education
  • Culturally diverse seeing
  • Marketing good sense

Best Colleges for Social Sciences in the World | World Scholarship Forum 2023 Rankings

The 2023 Best Colleges for Social Sciences ranking analyzes over 670 colleges and universities that offer a bachelor’s degree in social sciences. We looked at over 10 factors to determine the top 20 ranked Colleges for Social Sciences students.

Ranking Methodology

In selecting the Best and Top-Ranked Colleges for Social Sciences in the World in 2023, we will consider several ranking factors. Note that this World Scholarship Forum Ranking of Best Colleges for Social Sciences considers about 10 factors, but we will explain some in detail. They include:

Number of Programs: We consider these as one important criterion for ranking the Top Colleges for Social Sciences Rankings in the World in 2023. Because some of these universities can offer a good number of programs, they will offer you many options to choose from.

Accreditation: This criterion is very much important because a school can be considered good with great programs but yet do not have quality. So, we consider the body of accreditation as well as certification for each of these schools before ranking them. Whether they fall in the category of regional or national accreditation.

Acceptance Rate: This is one aspect that is considered important because of the lower the acceptance rate the better the school. The acceptance rate of any university in Michigan is a guide to show the quality of the university

Graduation & Employment Rate: Here, we consider if these schools have a high tendency of graduating their students. Some can get enrolled but get stuck at the end. Also, we consider whether school graduates are employable by great institutions. These factors are equally very much important.

#1. Harvard University

Founded in 1636, Harvard is the oldest institution of higher education in the United States and is widely regarded in terms of influence, reputation, and academic background as a leading university not only in the United States, but also in the world.

Harvard alumni include eight American Presidents, several foreign heads of state, 62 living billionaires, 359 Rhodes Scholars, and 242 Marshall Scholars.

The university is regularly ranked number one in the world, and the consistency of its performance at the top of the charts shows that success is not yet born of complacency.

Although no concentration in the social sciences offers pre-vocational training, all of them offer an excellent liberal arts foundation for graduate study in education, law, administration, medicine, and others. professions.

Number of Programs

10

Acceptance Rate

5%

Graduation Rate

98%

Accreditation

New England Commission of Higher Education

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#2. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) offers you the opportunity to study social sciences at an institution of world academic reputation. While enjoying the cultural, social, and recreational facilities of one of the largest capitals in the world.

Above all, a school is a place of true intellectual enthusiasm and cutting-edge research. In the most recent National Framework of Excellence (REF), the LSE had the highest percentage of cutting-edge research worldwide of any UK university.

Most importantly, LSE academics are at the forefront of advancements in the social sciences and governments, businesses, and the media worldwide seek after their expertise.

Also, the school offers more than 40 undergraduate programs and more than 140 higher education and research programs. Finally, the LSE’s academic profile covers various disciplines in the social sciences, from accounting to law, from administration to social policy.

Number of Programs

7

Acceptance Rate

8.9%

Graduation Rate

95%

Accreditation

Privy Council

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#3. Stanford University

The School of Humanities and Sciences, the largest of the seven Stanford schools, is the university’s center for liberal arts education.

By studying social, political and economic events, they acquire theories and techniques for analyzing specific social problems, as well as general intercultural perspectives on the human condition.

And through their exposure to the methods and discoveries of mathematics and science, they become well-informed participants and leaders in increasingly modern technology societies.

Above all, the Faculty of Humanities and Sciences comprises university departments, which are organized into three groups, each with its own distinctive character.

Number of Programs

6

Acceptance Rate

5%

Graduation Rate

94%

Accreditation

Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges

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#4. University of Oxford

The Social Sciences Division comprises the largest social sciences group in the United Kingdom Basically home to fourteen exceptional departments which address some of the major challenges facing humanity in the twenty-first century.

Oxford’s social science departments are dedicated to research that provides a better understanding of all aspects of our complex society. Including cybercrime, economic and political unrest, environmental change, inequality, legal systems, trafficking people, and social development.

Above all, the institution is ranking #4 in QS Global World Ranking.

Number of Programs

17

Acceptance Rate

17.5%

Graduation Rate

91%

Accreditation

 Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) 

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#5. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Currently, MIT is now an independent university, mixed with private resources, organized in five schools. Including architecture and urban planning; engineering; humanities, arts, and social sciences; administration; science).

However, the principle of educational innovation remains at the core of MIT’s educational philosophy.

The culture of graduates of the MIT School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences is very strong. Working closely with renowned teachers, college graduate students prepare for managerial positions in many fields.

In fact, attending a regionally accredited school is important, especially if you want to transfer credits to another institution or if you want to follow a graduate program.

Above all, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is ranking #1 in QS Global World Ranking.

Number of Programs

11

Acceptance Rate

7%

Graduation Rate

90%

Accreditation

New England Association of Schools and Colleges

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#6. University of Cambridge

The Faculty of Human and Social Sciences includes a wide range of disciplines with different methodologies, from the highly quantitative analysis of “big data” to ethnography and the analysis of material culture and the thinking of past societies.

Most importantly, Cambridge is one of the world’s leading centers for science, technology, and medicine, and the social sciences now play an increasingly important role in understanding social, political, and economic contexts.

Above all, the University of Cambridge is ranking #7 in QS Global World Ranking.

Number of Programs

12

Acceptance Rate

21%

Graduation Rate

47%

Accreditation

New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

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#7. University of California, Berkeley (UCB)

Basically, the 15 departments and programs of the University of California at Berkeley (UCB) that make up the Division of Social Sciences are among the most distinguished in the country.

Currently, the division is the largest at the university, with 20% faculty and 25% student enrollment. It is also the most heterogeneous, offering various theoretical approaches and empirical methodologies to understand how human beings, past and present, have organized their lives.

Most importantly, this diversity offers academics and students an incomparable opportunity to expand far and wide in their search for solutions to individual, social, and global problems.

Above all, the University of California, Berkeley (UCB) is ranking #28 in QS Global World Ranking.

Number of Faculty

15

Acceptance Rate

17%

Graduation Rate

92%

Accreditation

Western Association of Schools & Colleges (WASC) 

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#8. Yale University

Founded in 1701, Yale University is the third oldest institution of higher education in the United States. The study of social sciences goes back to the foundation of the university.

Today, the many departments and undergraduate programs in the Division of Social Sciences. Including political science, anthropology, sociology, African American studies, psychology, economics, and linguistics. More than 50 departments and programs are available at the master’s and doctoral levels, with more than 2,800 students enrolled.

Above all, Yale University is ranking #17 in QS Global World Ranking.

Number of Programs

19

Acceptance Rate

7%

Graduation Rate

97%

Accreditation

New England Association of Schools and Colleges

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#9. The University of Hong Kong

In the past 11 years, more than 99.4% of the University of Hong Kong Social Science graduates have received at least one job offer in each consecutive academic year.

With many beginnings in careers as diverse as finance, law, engineering and technology, and working in international companies, including Apple, Google, and Goldman Sachs.

In addition to being the 26th best university in the world, HKU has 6 subjects among the 10 best in the world, while HKU’s social science program has been ranked 3rd in the world for the second consecutive year.

Above all, the University of Hong Kong is ranking #25 in QS Global World Ranking.

Number of Programs

6

Acceptance Rate

32.9%

Graduation Rate

100%

Accreditation

Education Bureau, Hong Kong SAR,

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#10. The University of Tokyo

The Department of Human and Social Sciences emphasizes advanced teaching of the liberal arts, while intending to carry out interdisciplinary teaching and research covering the various scholarship developments.

Its founding principle is to reward teaching and research that open up a global vision to address our rapidly changing world and build trust in every student and empower people who can thrive in this age and in society.

The department is made up of three fields of study, different in their orientation and focus: “Interdisciplinary Cultural Studies”, “Regional Studies” and “Social and International Relations”.

Each study area is made up of several courses, and in total, there are 18 unique courses that are interconnected with each other, creating an interdisciplinary space of the intellect.

Above all, the University of Tokyo is ranking #22 in QS Global World Ranking.

Number of Programs

4

Acceptance Rate

34%

Graduation Rate

66%

Accreditation

Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, Japan

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Best Online Colleges for Social Sciences | World Scholarship Forum 2023 Rankings

An online bachelor’s degree in social sciences prepares students for various careers in various fields. The social sciences include academic fields such as sociology, psychology, geography, political science, history, economics, and linguistics. Although these fields cover a variety of careers and subjects, they all deal primarily with human and social interactions.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the average annual salary for social scientists and related workers is $80,860. Most importantly, an online social science degree prepares you to join a rapidly changing world of human studies. Using data, statistics, and history to learn more about the world’s common future.

The content of a social science degree varies considerably from one school to another. Most online social science degrees have specific specialties or disciplines such as economics, political science, or history. The curriculum, program orientation, and professional outcomes also vary within a specific specialty.

#11. University of Central Florida

The Chico State Bachelor of Social Sciences program has two levels: multidisciplinary studies and specialization studies. The multidisciplinary specialization includes courses that address various social science topics. While the specialization studies specialization focuses on sociology. Both tracks can be completed online and require a summary course.

Almost 80% of Chico State graduates earn a career or positive studies shortly after graduation. The university facilitates graduate success by offering virtual career workshops and recovery tips.

Applicants must complete the lower level credits before applying for this social science program. Prospective students can attend an information session online. Graduate candidates with good grades and excellent results on standardized tests can apply for a Wildcat scholarship.

Acceptance Rate

50%

Graduation Rate

71%

Accreditation

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

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#12. University of Hawai’i – West O’ahu

At UH West O’ahu, students can choose from three online bachelor’s degrees in social sciences: early childhood education, political science, and psychology. Each program requires 120 credits and uses 15-week courses. The early childhood education and political science program require or strongly recommend that learners complete an internship.

Students can explore internship opportunities, receive career advising, and attend virtual events on the university’s career services website. This website also provides career and interest assessments.

First-year applicants should have a minimum of 2.7 GPA and meet course prerequisite requirements. Additional requirements include ACT or SAT scores. Incoming students can apply for institutional financial aid by submitting their FAFSA results.

Acceptance Rate

79%

Graduation Rate

48%

Accreditation

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#13. University of Washington

UW’s bachelor’s in integrated social sciences program offers full-time and part-time enrollment options. The curriculum includes courses in seven thematic areas of inquiry, including information and technology, conflict and cooperation, and societies and environments. The program culminates in a capstone course, in which learners create an academic portfolio.

Approximately 80% of UW alumni experience a positive outcome within 180 days of earning their degrees. The university’s career center offers resources that help learners turn career goals into a reality, such as webinars and a resume review service.

Transfer students with at least 75 quarter credits may apply. Once accepted, incoming transfer students may apply for the Martin Family Foundation Scholarship. International and out-of-state online learners pay slightly higher tuition rates than Washington residents.

Acceptance Rate

46%

Graduation Rate

84%

Accreditation

Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) 

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#14. Bellevue University

BU’s online bachelor’s degree in behavioral science combines psychology, sociology, and counseling coursework. This program operates as a degree completion pathway. Students complete 40 major-related credits, including a capstone. All undergraduate students also take the Kirkpatrick Signature Series — three courses unique to BU.

In addition to providing resume and cover letter assistance, BU’s career advisors work one-on-one with degree-seekers to teach networking and interviewing skills. The university also provides personalized job-hunting advice and resume templates for veterans returning to civilian life.

Prospective students must hold an associate degree or at least 60 transferable credits. The university accepts applications for institutional scholarships at five points throughout the year.

Acceptance Rate

42%

Graduation Rate

52%

Accreditation

 Higher Learning Commission

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#15. New York University

Aspiring lawyers may be interested in NYU’s bachelors in social sciences program. This degree completion program’s online curriculum features nine concentrations in areas like politics, sociology, and organizational behavior and change.

Nearly 60% of NYU students accept a job offer in the weeks leading up to graduation. NYU achieves this result by providing students with virtual career services, including internship boards, 30-minute coaching sessions, and career events.

Applicants must hold an associate degree or at least 45 transferable credits. The university prefers applicants with a minimum of 3.3 undergraduate GPA. NYU offers several financial aid opportunities to incoming students, including the Dean’s Scholarship Program.

Acceptance Rate

28%

Graduation Rate

84%

Accreditation

 The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

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#16. California State University, Chico

The Chico State Bachelor of Social Sciences program has two levels: multidisciplinary studies and specialization studies. The multidisciplinary specialization includes courses that address various social science topics, while the specialization studies specialization focuses on sociology. Both tracks can be completed online and require a summary course.

Almost 80% of Chico State graduates earn a career or positive studies shortly after graduation. The university facilitates graduate success by offering virtual career workshops and recovery tips.

Applicants must complete the lower level credits before applying for this social science program. Prospective students can attend an information session online. Graduate candidates with good grades and excellent results on standardized tests can apply for a Wildcat scholarship.

Acceptance Rate

68%

Graduation Rate

64%

Accreditation

Senior College Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)

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#17. Dickinson State University

The DSU Online Bachelor of Applied Science offers a major 36-credit program of study with required courses in business law, business communication, and marketing principles.

With more than 30 credits, students can complete many minors, including a minor in social studies. The program attracts entry-level students and transfer students.

DSU Career Counselors provide students with a career exploration guide, brainstorming tips, and cover letter templates. Students can also review typical interview questions and best practices in personal finance.

Admission requirements include high school transcripts or GED scores and standardized test scores. Transfer applicants can search for online course equivalences. Full-time students can apply for the university’s presidential scholarship.

Acceptance Rate

99%

Graduation Rate

37%

Accreditation

 Higher Learning Commission

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#18. Washington State University

The WSU undergraduate program in social sciences includes 12 concentrations in areas such as administrative studies, comparative ethnic studies, and human development. The flexible program allows students to complete 2-3 concentrations. Additional requirements include two years of an approved foreign language.

The WSU Career Center offers many useful resources, including virtual professional training sessions, hands-on software, and internships through Parker Dewey. The center also offers online workshops covering topics such as learning strategies and time management.

WSU admits new students in the spring, summer, and fall. Online students from other states pay about 10% more on tuition fees than Washington residents.

Acceptance Rate

73%

Graduation Rate

64%

Accreditation

Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

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#19. University of Alaska Southeast

Students who wish to acquire knowledge and skills in various areas of the social sciences can earn an online degree in social sciences at UAS.

Students choose from five areas of concentration: anthropology, history, psychology, political science/government, and sociology. General education courses in the program sharpen writing, research, and analytical skills.

UAS offers many professional resources, including interview opportunities, resume reviews, and mock interviews, through Handshake. The university’s professional services website also publishes volunteer opportunities.

Applicants must have a high school diploma and present ACT or SAT scores. Full-time students who maintain a minimum of 2.0 GPA.

Acceptance Rate

71%

Graduation Rate

28%

Accreditation

 Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

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#20. Pennsylvania State University

Through its global campus, Penn State offers a bachelor’s degree in integrated social science. This program offers a flexible and asynchronous curriculum that prepares graduates to seek entry-level employment or enroll in a master’s program.

Students take courses in anthropology, economics, and history. During their senior year, students create an experimental learning portfolio.

College counselors help students write a resume and prepare for interviews. These resources help more than 70% of alumni find employment immediately upon graduation.

The social science program welcomes freshmen and transfer students. The program accepts applications three times during the year. Penn State World Campus does not charge out-of-state tuition, and full-time students pay a semester-based fee. Incoming students must submit FAFSA results to apply for institutional scholarships.

Acceptance Rate

50%

Graduation Rate

85%

Accreditation

 Middle States Commission on Higher Education 

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Conclusion

With the study of Humanities and Social Sciences, the students will develop the ability to question, solve problems, think critically, make decisions, and communicate effectively. These best colleges for social sciences will give you all you need to study your course.

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