Troy University

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Social Sciences provides a flexible curriculum that combines core social science theory and methods with elective study across fields such as sociology, political science, psychology, anthropology and economics. Students take foundational courses in social science research methods and statistics, courses exploring social institutions and processes, and topical units addressing inequality, culture, policy and community change.

• Core courses: social science theory, research methods, applied statistics for social sciences, ethics in research
• Disciplinary breadth: introductory and intermediate modules in sociology, political science, psychology, anthropology and economics
• Applied learning: practicum or internship options in community organisations, local government or research centres
• Capstone: a senior seminar, major research project or policy analysis synthesising knowledge and methods
• Electives and specialisation: students can choose thematic clusters—such as public policy, community development, criminal justice or human services—to tailor the degree to career goals
• Optional pathways: study abroad, service-learning, and opportunities to take interdisciplinary courses from allied departments

Entry requirements

Admission to the bachelor’s programme typically requires a completed secondary school qualification equivalent to a US high school diploma. Applicants are expected to submit official transcripts and a completed application.

• Domestic applicants: secondary school transcript; submission of standardised test scores (when required by the admissions office) may be optional depending on the applicant profile
• International applicants: equivalent secondary school qualification and proof of English language proficiency (such as IELTS or TOEFL) if English was not the language of prior instruction
• Additional materials: a personal statement describing academic interests and career goals; letters of recommendation may strengthen an application but are not always mandatory
• Transfer students: transfer of relevant collegiate credits is considered according to university policy; an official transcript and course descriptions are required for evaluation

Career prospects

Graduates of the Bachelor of Social Sciences enter a wide range of careers in public, private and non-profit sectors. The programme emphasises analytical thinking, research skills and written and verbal communication—skills employers value in many roles.

• Public sector roles in policy analysis, community planning, public administration and social services
• Non-profit and advocacy work, including programme coordination, community outreach and grant writing
• Human services and case management in healthcare, youth services and counselling support (often combined with additional certification or postgraduate training)
• Market and social research positions that use survey design, data analysis and report writing
• Education-related careers and preparation for teacher training or educational policy roles
• Progression to postgraduate study (MA, MS, MPA, social work or law) for students aiming at specialist or research careers

Why study at Troy University

Troy University offers a student-centred learning environment with small class sizes and accessible faculty, allowing for close mentorship and hands-on guidance in research and applied projects. The university’s emphasis on experiential learning means students can pursue internships, community-engaged projects and study-abroad opportunities that connect classroom learning to real-world practice.

• Interdisciplinary flexibility lets students build a personalised programme that matches their career aims and academic interests
• Multiple campus and online delivery options provide scheduling flexibility for traditional and non-traditional students
• Dedicated student support services, including academic advising and career services, help with internship placement and graduate school preparation
• Opportunities to collaborate with faculty on research and to engage with local and regional organisations through practicum placements