Lesley University

What you'll study

This Social Sciences degree combines core disciplinary study with interdisciplinary methods and applied learning. Typical areas of study include sociology, social psychology, political science, research methods, statistics for the social sciences, social policy, and ethics. Students also explore specialised topics such as inequality and social justice, community development, public policy analysis, family studies, and cultural diversity.

The curriculum usually mixes required core courses, elective options, and a capstone or practicum experience. Common course types you can expect are:

• Foundations in social science theory and history
• Quantitative and qualitative research methods
• Social statistics and data interpretation
• Applied courses focused on community engagement, advocacy or policy
• A senior seminar, thesis, internship or field placement that integrates coursework with practice

Learning and assessment

Instruction typically emphasises small-class discussion, case studies, community-based projects and practicum placements. Assessment methods commonly include essays, research projects, data analysis assignments, reflective portfolios and presentations.

Entry requirements

Admission to the bachelor’s programme generally requires a recognised secondary school completion (high school diploma or equivalent) or successful transfer from a post-secondary institution. Applicants are normally asked to provide:

• Academic transcripts from secondary school and any college-level study
• A personal statement outlining interests and goals in the social sciences
• Letters of recommendation (often one academic or professional reference)
• For transfer applicants, a record of college coursework and credit evaluation

International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through accepted tests or qualifying documentation. Additional requirements such as interviews, portfolios or placement testing may apply depending on prior study and transfer status.

Career prospects

Graduates of a Social Sciences bachelor’s at Lesley are prepared for a range of entry-level roles across public, private and non-profit sectors. Common career pathways include community outreach and programme coordination, case management, research assistantships, policy support roles, advocacy and youth services. The degree is also a solid foundation for further study in fields such as social work, public policy, counselling, education and social research.

Students often gain practical experience through internships and field placements, which can lead to networking opportunities and direct employment in local agencies, schools, government offices and non-governmental organisations.

Why study at Lesley University

Lesley offers a campus environment with small class sizes and faculty who combine academic expertise with applied professional experience. The university emphasises experiential learning, community engagement and social justice, giving Social Sciences students regular opportunities to work on community-based projects and internships in the Boston–Cambridge area.

Students benefit from multidisciplinary collaboration across related departments, advising support for career and graduate pathways, and access to local organisations for practicum and research placements. The programme’s focus on practical skills—research methods, community practice and communication—helps graduates move directly into work or further study in human services, policy and research.