University of Southern California

USA
2 Scholarships 95 Programs 3 Degree levels

Non-Governmental Organizations and Social Change

FieldNGO & Social Change
Duration4 years
Tuition73260.00

Overview

Explore how social problems are shaped by economic, political, and cultural forces—and how NGOs and nonprofits respond. Through research, discussion, and applied learning, you’ll build skills to evaluate solutions and support evidence-based social change.

About this programme

Overview

The Bachelor’s program in Non-Governmental Organizations and Social Change at the University of Southern California delves into the intricate interplay between social issues and the economic, political, and cultural factors that shape them. This course equips students with the analytical skills to evaluate responses from NGOs and nonprofits, fostering evidence-based social change through rigorous research, engaging discussions, and practical learning experiences.

What you'll study

The curriculum covers a diverse range of topics, enabling students to gain a comprehensive understanding of social dynamics and organizational strategies:

  • Black Social Movements in the U.S.
  • Rhetoric and the Public Sphere
  • Political Economy and Social Issues
  • Environmental Issues in Society
  • American Environmentalism
  • Environmental Law and Politics
  • Crises of a Planet
  • International Relations

Learning components include:

  • Core interdisciplinary study: Engage with theories and concepts that illuminate social problems and organizational responses.
  • Applied learning: Participate in internships that connect academic knowledge with real-world NGO and nonprofit environments.
  • Research and evaluation: Develop skills to interpret academic and policy research for assessing potential solutions.
  • Capstone project: Collaborate on a major project that encapsulates the learning experience, details of which should be confirmed with USC.

Entry requirements

Applicants are required to submit transcripts, a letter of recommendation from a counselor or teacher, a financial statement for international students, and proof of English proficiency, if applicable. There are no specific GRE, GMAT, or minimum GPA thresholds outlined for this program.

English language requirements include:

  • IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0
  • TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 100
  • PTE Academic: Minimum score of 68
  • Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 130

Career prospects

Graduates of this program will be well-prepared for a variety of roles within NGOs, nonprofits, and government organizations, focusing on social change initiatives. Career paths may include positions in policy analysis, community outreach, environmental advocacy, and international development, among others. The skills gained in this program will empower students to make meaningful contributions to society, addressing pressing social issues through effective organizational strategies.

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Programme details are indicative and may change — always verify current information with the official university website before applying.