Cost & earnings at University of Massachusetts Amherst What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
Social Sciences graduates earn a median $33,237 Across 348 US programmes, two years after finishing
See the degree grade →The Bachelor in Social Sciences at the University of Massachusetts Amherst is an interdisciplinary undergraduate degree that combines theory, quantitative methods and applied work across sociology, political science, anthropology, economics and related fields. It suits students who want a broad social-scientific foundation for careers in public service, research, community organisations or further study in graduate or professional programmes.
The Social Sciences programme at UMass Amherst provides an interdisciplinary curriculum that emphasises both substantive knowledge about social, political and economic institutions and practical training in research methods. Core study typically includes foundations in sociological and political theory, comparative politics, micro- and macro-economics, cultural anthropology, and human geography. Students also take quantitative and qualitative methods courses such as statistics for the social sciences, research design, survey methods, and data analysis using contemporary software.
In addition to core courses, the programme offers elective modules allowing students to pursue thematic concentrations—examples include public policy and administration, inequality and social justice, urban studies and community development, environmental policy, and international development. The curriculum commonly concludes with a senior capstone or honours project in which students apply methods and theory to an original research question, often working with faculty on ongoing research or through practicum placements.
Admission is to the University of Massachusetts Amherst; applicants should meet the university’s general undergraduate admission criteria. Successful candidates typically present a strong secondary-school academic record with substantial coursework in social studies, writing and mathematics (preference for coursework that demonstrates quantitative reasoning). Applications from international students should include evidence of equivalent secondary qualifications and proficiency in English.
Selection for the College considers academic preparation, personal statements, letters of recommendation (where requested) and any relevant extracurricular experience such as community service, internships, or research. Some students enter with an intended major in the social sciences and others transfer into the programme after completing initial university study; transfer applicants should show college-level coursework compatible with the degree.
Graduates of the Social Sciences programme are well prepared for a wide range of career paths that require analytical thinking, research skills and an understanding of social systems. Common destinations include roles in public policy and government, non-profit and non-governmental organisations, community and social services, market and social research, education, and communications. Many graduates also pursue further study in fields such as public policy, law, social work, economics, international relations or academic research.
Typical entry-level roles held by alumni include policy analyst, research assistant, programme coordinator, community outreach specialist, data analyst in social research, and positions in advocacy and programme evaluation. The programme’s emphasis on applied methods and internships helps students build practical experience and employer networks.
UMass Amherst is a large public research university with strong, complementary departments across the social sciences. Students benefit from access to active faculty research, laboratory and field research opportunities, and an array of centres and institutes that facilitate applied work and internships. The university’s location in Massachusetts provides regional links to state government, non-profit organisations and a wide professional market, while campus resources support undergraduate research, academic advising and career development.
The programme’s interdisciplinary structure gives students flexibility to tailor their studies to particular interests and career goals, supported by hands-on learning through capstones, practicum placements and study-abroad options. For students seeking both intellectual breadth and practical skills in social analysis, UMass Amherst offers the academic resources and co-curricular support to transition into careers or advanced study.
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