Social science is an interdisciplinary field that weaves together the observation of human behavior and explores how to make sense of it. Social science includes fields such as economics, sociology, political science, and more.
But in today’s STEM-focused world, is a social science degree worth it?
Whenever you’re determining the value of a degree, you want to compare a few things: the skills obtained through the degree, the cost of getting the degree, and the expected earning potential and life satisfaction of the career.
There’s immense value to getting a social science degree especially when you’re equipped with the ability to market your unique and respected skills to land a fulfilling career.
Read on to decide for yourself if a social science degree is worth it today.
Social science degrees instill unique and valuable skills
Social scientists can boast a wide range of highly valuable skills. Because of the varied and broad topics within the social science field, social science degrees produce well-rounded and distinct individuals.
Social scientists are some of the world’s best researchers and can evaluate myriad amounts of qualitative and quantitative data. Beyond this, social scientists are often tasked with communicating the results to those that don’t have as strong of an analytical background.
A social science degree is worth it because you graduate with a deep understanding of data but the unique ability to communicate with others about complex issues. Employers frequently look for these transferable skills, but you are uniquely qualified if you have both.
As the world advances rapidly in science and technology, it might seem like a social science degree is losing value. However, as quickly as STEM fields are progressing, so are the social sciences. Social scientists are equipped to handle a rapidly changing world and can provide a unique skill set to weather these changes.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median income for social science careers is nearly $30,000 more than the median salary and the field is expected to have consistent growth over the next decade.
ROI of a social science degree, is it worth it?
It’s a smart decision to look at the ROI of a social science degree when determining if it’s worth it. The ROI, or return on investment, compares the cost associated with obtaining the graduate degree and how much you can expect to earn from the degree. The ROI on your education can help determine if a social science degree is worth it.
Cost
In the case of seeking a graduate degree, cost can include tuition, housing, fees, and missed work opportunities. There is a significant investment made in yourself when you pursue a graduate degree.
Pro Tip: At WVU’s Eberly College of Arts and Sciences, there are opportunities to offset the cost of attendance with scholarships and graduate assistantships.
Earning potential
The skills associated with a social sciences degree are vast and unique. You’ll have an easily marketable set of abilities and because of this, have the ability to explore a few different careers.
Careers for analysts and researchers can be found in a variety of industries and fields. You may also seek service related careers like social work, higher education, or public administration that work more directly with people. Your earning potential would be directly related to the industry you choose.
On the other hand, you may attribute value found in a career to things like work-life balance, personal enjoyment, and professional growth. However you measure value, a social science degree is worth it. Your earning potential and day-to-day satisfaction will thank you.
Here are a list of job titles that fall under the umbrella of careers in social science:
How do you get a social science degree?
Are you wondering where to begin?
First, pick a field. Identify your passions, your career goals, and find where those things intersect. Browse our list of program offerings for some inspiration.
Once enrolled, you’ll have program-specific courses but as a social scientist, you’re bound to have a well-rounded graduate experience. You’ll be able to do hands-on research or explore learning experience outside of the classroom through internships.
The experience as a graduate student at WVU’s Eberly College of Arts and Sciences sets you apart from the rest. You’re well-educated, well-rounded, and well on your way to a fulfilling career. You can consider enrolling in programs from
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