Radford University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary programme covers the major social science disciplines and emphasises research methods and applied learning. Core themes include understanding social structures, institutions, political processes, economic behaviour and cultural differences. Typical modules and topics you will encounter include:

• Introduction to Sociology and Social Theory — foundations of sociological thought and methods for analysing social structures.
• Political Science and Public Policy — government systems, policy-making processes and comparative politics.
• Micro- and Macroeconomics — basic economic principles, markets and economic indicators relevant to social analysis.
• Cultural Anthropology — ethnographic perspectives on culture, identity and social change.
• Social Research Methods and Statistics — quantitative and qualitative research design, data collection, analysis and interpretation.
• Social Inequality and Race, Class and Gender Studies — critical examination of inequality and social stratification.
• Electives and Area Specialisation — courses that allow concentration in fields such as criminal justice, community development, environmental policy or human services.
• Capstone Project or Internship — applied project or practicum placement with a local agency, public body or community organisation to synthesise learning.

The programme typically follows a four-year structure of general education requirements in the first year, progression to major-specific core courses, and elective or specialised courses in later years. Students are encouraged to combine the major with minors or certificates in related areas and to take advantage of study abroad, internships and community-engaged research.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor's in Social Sciences at Radford University usually requires a completed secondary school qualification or recognised equivalent. Typical expectations include a strong overall academic record and competency in writing and mathematics. Specific entry points include:

• Completed high school diploma or equivalent with satisfactory grades.
• Submission of official academic transcripts; standardised test submission (SAT/ACT) may be optional depending on current institutional policy.
• One or more academic references or a guidance counsellor recommendation may be requested.
• Personal statement or short essay outlining academic interests and reasons for choosing social sciences.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests (for example TOEFL or IELTS) or approved alternative evidence of proficiency.

Transfer students are accepted; transfer credit evaluation is performed on submitted college transcripts and applicants should consult the admissions office about articulation and credit transfer policies.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Bachelor’s in Social Sciences develop versatile skills in research, critical thinking, communication and analysis that are valued across many sectors. Common career pathways include:

• Public sector roles such as policy analyst, community development officer or local government administrator.
• Non-profit and community organisations in programme coordination, fundraising, outreach and advocacy.
• Social services and human services roles, including casework and community support positions.
• Market research and data analysis positions in the private sector.
• Opportunities in education, youth work and programme delivery for community initiatives.
• Progression to postgraduate study in fields such as public policy, social work, law, criminology or research-based master’s degrees.

Radford’s emphasis on experiential learning and internships helps students build professional networks and practical experience that support these career paths.

Why study at Radford University

Radford University offers a student-focused learning environment with small class sizes and accessible faculty, making it suitable for an interdisciplinary social sciences programme that relies on discussion, research supervision and applied learning. The university maintains close links with local and regional public agencies, non-profit organisations and community partners, providing internship and practicum opportunities for students to apply classroom learning.

Students benefit from academic support services, a career services centre that assists with placements and job search preparation, and a range of student societies and civic engagement initiatives. Radford’s location near regional economic and civic centres provides additional opportunities for placements, volunteering and collaborative research projects that complement coursework.