Social Science

On This Page
A professor stands in front of the classroom as she addresses her students.

Insight

The Social Science Program prepares students to be informed citizens who use multidisciplinary understandings of concepts, theories, and methods from the social sciences to respond to a range of human experiences, events, and real-world social problems. The program promotes an understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion, the value of research and service to the community, the importance of social and environmental responsibility, and active participation in civic life.

Experience

The Bachelor of Arts in Social Science is designed for students who have a broad interest in the behavioral and social sciences and for those interested in pursuing a California secondary school teaching credential. The program has two options: multidisciplinary studies and specialization studies. Both options are available to students on campus and for distance education students who do not reside in Chico.

The Master of Arts in Social Science is a flexible interdisciplinary program that allows students to tailor a program to their specific academic or career goals, drawing on curricula from departments in the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, as well as the School of Education and other programs. While possibilities are varied, some examples include focusing on higher education administration, college student development, cultural and gender studies, and career development counseling.

The Social Science Blended BA + MA Program is one of Chico State’s first blended programs and allows students to double count nine units of coursework in our Career and Life Planning area of concentration toward both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Students who complete the Social Science blended program will receive both a bachelor’s and master’s degree.

The Social Science Program offers several minors that are easily combined with our two options or with other majors. The Career and Life Planning Minor, the Family Relations Minor, and the Gerontology Minor are available in person and fully online. The Minor in California: People, Places, and Cultures is only available to on-campus students.

Students can also take courses to complete the Certificate in Career and Life Planning or the Certificate in Gerontology. The Certificate in Career and Life Planning is for professionals who work in a variety of career development settings. The Certificate in Gerontology is for those interested in professions that work with older adults and their families.

Outlook

Social Science BA and MA graduates are in high demand for a variety of professions. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that professional opportunities for those with a degree in social science will grow over the next decade. Graduates are employed in public and private education; career centers; human resource organizations; local, state, and federal government agencies; nonprofit organizations; interest groups; and various realms of the private sector.

For more information, please contact us:

Programs

Undergraduate

Bachelor's

Minors

Certificates

Credential

Graduate

Master's