Rockford University

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Social Sciences is an interdisciplinary programme that combines courses across multiple social-science disciplines to give you a wide-ranging understanding of society, culture and policy. Core elements typically include social theory, qualitative and quantitative research methods, statistics for social sciences, and a capstone project or senior seminar that integrates theory and applied research.

• Sociology: social stratification, institutions, inequality and community studies.
• Political Science: comparative politics, public policy, political behaviour and institutions.
• Psychology: social psychology, developmental and cognitive perspectives relevant to social contexts.
• Anthropology: cultural anthropology, ethnographic methods and global perspectives.
• Economics: principles of micro- and macroeconomics and policy analysis basics.
• Research Methods & Statistics: courses in qualitative methods, survey design, data analysis and applied statistics tailored to social-science questions.
• Capstone / Applied Project: a final-year research project, practicum or internship that emphasises applied problem-solving and community engagement.

The programme structure is flexible and allows students to choose electives or a concentration area, such as public policy, community development, criminal justice or global studies. Students are encouraged to take part in internships with local government, non-profits and community organisations, and to pursue study-abroad or fieldwork opportunities to complement classroom learning.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school qualification. Rockford University evaluates applications holistically, considering academic transcripts, a personal statement, and references. Standard entry expects demonstrated competence in writing and social studies; successful applicants typically have completed courses in social sciences and mathematics or statistics at secondary level.

Standardised test scores (such as SAT or ACT) may be optional in admissions decisions, depending on the current admissions policy. Mature applicants and transfer students are welcome; transfer credit is assessed on an individual basis. International applicants must provide evidence of English language proficiency if their prior education was not delivered in English.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Social Sciences programme develop analytical, research and communication skills valued across many sectors. Common career paths include roles in social services, community outreach, public policy and government, non-profit management, research assistance, programme coordination and human resources.

The degree also provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study in social sciences, public policy, social work, education, law or business. Rockford graduates often move into positions with local and regional agencies, advocacy organisations, research institutes and private-sector firms that require social-analytical expertise.

Why study at Rockford University

Rockford University offers a small-campus liberal-arts environment where students benefit from close faculty mentoring, small class sizes and an emphasis on experiential learning. The university’s location provides opportunities for internships and community partnerships in the Rockford metropolitan area and beyond.

The Social Sciences programme emphasises applied skills—research methods, data literacy and community-engaged practice—so students leave with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Career services, alumni connections and faculty support help students secure internships and job placements or prepare for graduate study.