Georgetown University

What you'll study

This programme provides a broad foundation in the social sciences while allowing students to pursue concentrations or elective pathways in areas such as political behaviour, development, urban studies, public policy, globalisation, identity and culture. Core study typically includes research design, statistics and data analysis, social theory, and ethical approaches to research. Students take introductory and intermediate modules from departments across the university—examples include political science, sociology, anthropology, economics and psychology—and choose advanced seminars that apply methods to substantive topics.

• Core methods: quantitative methods and statistics for social science, qualitative research methods, research design and ethics.
• Thematic modules: comparative politics, international relations, economic development, urban sociology, social policy, political economy, migration and identity.
• Electives and language: area studies, regional languages, data visualisation, GIS for social research and practicum placements or internships.
• Capstone or thesis: many students complete a senior thesis or capstone project synthesising methods and substantive knowledge under faculty supervision.

Entry requirements

Admission to Georgetown's undergraduate programmes is competitive and considers academic achievement, personal statement, recommendations and extracurricular engagement. Typical academic expectations include strong secondary-school grades in a broad curriculum; evidence of ability in quantitative work is advantageous for method-heavy modules. International applicants generally submit recognised secondary credentials and standardised test scores where required, plus English language proficiency proof if applicable. Successful candidates demonstrate curiosity about social issues, capacity for critical thinking and readiness to engage in interdisciplinary study.

Career prospects

Graduates with a broadly based social sciences education move into a wide range of careers. Common pathways include roles in public policy and government, international organisations and NGOs, research and data analysis, advocacy and philanthropy, journalism and communications, consulting and market research, and programme management. Many graduates also pursue postgraduate study in social science disciplines, public policy, law, public health or business, where their methodological training and substantive breadth are valuable preparation.

Why study at Georgetown University

Georgetown’s location in Washington, D.C., offers distinctive advantages for social-science students: access to policy institutions, advocacy organisations, think tanks and government for internships, research collaborations and guest lectures. The university encourages interdisciplinary study across established departments and centres, and faculty are active researchers in fields such as international relations, urban policy, political economy and human rights. Students benefit from a strong alumni network, dedicated career services and opportunities for experiential learning, including internships, practicum projects and community-engaged research that connect classroom learning to real-world practice.