University of San Diego

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary programme develops students' ability to analyse social structures, collect and interpret data, and apply theory to real‑world problems. You will take a mix of core courses in social theory and research methods alongside elective modules drawn from disciplines such as sociology, political science, anthropology, economics, geography and psychology.

• Research methods and social statistics — quantitative and qualitative approaches to designing studies, sampling, survey methods and basic data analysis.
• Social theory — classical and contemporary theoretical perspectives on societies, institutions and inequality.
• Area or topical courses — for example immigration and border studies, urban sociology, public policy, environmental justice, or social stratification.
• Capstone project or senior thesis — a sustained piece of independent research or applied project that synthesises theoretical knowledge and empirical skills.
• Internship/practicum opportunities — placements with local government agencies, non‑profits, community organisations or research centres that provide practical experience.

Students usually follow a structured major sequence while choosing electives to tailor the degree to particular interests such as social policy, community development, international studies or data analysis. Coursework emphasises experiential learning, field research in the San Diego region, and opportunities for study abroad.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school qualification. Typical admission expectations include a strong academic record in high school with coursework in social studies, maths and writing. For international applicants, equivalent qualifications and evidence of English proficiency are required.

• High school diploma or equivalent with competitive grades in academic subjects.
• Personal statement or essay explaining academic interests and motivations for studying social sciences.
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or counsellors that speak to academic potential and character.
• Evidence of English proficiency for non‑native speakers (for example TOEFL or IELTS), unless exempted by prior study in English.
• Standardised tests (SAT/ACT) may be considered where submitted, but applicants should check current institutional testing policies.

Admissions are holistic; relevant extracurriculars, community service, internship experience and demonstrated interest in social issues can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates with a social sciences degree from the University of San Diego move into a wide range of roles across public, private and non‑profit sectors. The programme’s emphasis on research skills, critical thinking and applied experience prepares students for both immediate employment and further study.

• Public policy analyst, legislative aide or government programme coordinator.
• Programme officer, case manager or outreach coordinator in non‑profit and community organisations.
• Market researcher, data analyst or business roles that require social‑behavioural insights.
• Roles in education, community development, social services or international organisations.
• Progression to graduate study in fields such as public policy, social work, law, international relations or sociology.

Why study at University of San Diego

The University of San Diego offers a liberal arts‑based approach with small class sizes, close faculty mentoring and an emphasis on hands‑on learning. Its location in the San Diego border region provides distinctive opportunities to study migration, urbanisation, cross‑border policy and community engagement.

• Interdisciplinary curriculum that allows students to combine perspectives from multiple social science disciplines.
• Access to local internships and community partnerships with government agencies, advocacy groups and research centres in the San Diego–Tijuana region.
• Opportunities for undergraduate research and a capstone project supervised by faculty members.
• Support services including career advising, study abroad programmes and centres that link students with civic engagement and public service initiatives.

Together these features make the University of San Diego a strong choice for students seeking a broad, applied social sciences education with local and global relevance.