University of Vermont

What you'll study

The Social Sciences degree is an interdisciplinary programme combining coursework in sociology, political science, anthropology, economics, geography and related fields. Core study emphasises social theory, research design and data analysis (both quantitative and qualitative), ethical practice, and a capstone or senior thesis project that integrates disciplinary perspectives.

Typical modules and topics include:

• Research Methods and Statistics: introductory and intermediate methods, survey design, basic inferential statistics and qualitative techniques such as interviewing and ethnography.
• Social Theory: classical and contemporary theoretical perspectives on social structures, power, identity and inequality.
• Political and Public Policy Studies: institutions, comparative politics, public policy analysis and the role of governance.
• Cultural and Social Anthropology: cultural analysis, field methods and topics such as migration, family and belief systems.
• Economic and Spatial Perspectives: applied microeconomics, community development, urban/rural geography and GIS fundamentals.
• Capstone / Senior Project: independent research, applied practicum or community-based project supervised by faculty.

Students can choose electives to develop a concentration (for example, public policy, community development, environmental social science, or social research methods) and are encouraged to complement coursework with internships, community-engaged learning and study-away options. Small seminar classes and opportunities for undergraduate research allow close faculty mentorship.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a strong secondary-school academic record with coursework in social studies, history or related humanities and some evidence of quantitative reasoning. Typical application materials include transcripts, a personal statement, and academic references. The programme welcomes students with diverse backgrounds and values demonstrated interest in civic engagement, research, or applied social work.

For applicants whose first language is not English, proof of English language proficiency is required through recognised tests or equivalent institutional pathways. Standardised test requirements vary and prospective students should consult the university's admissions information for current guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Social Sciences programme enter a wide range of careers where analytical, research and communication skills are valued. Common pathways include:

• Public sector and government roles in policy analysis, programme administration and community development.
• Non-profit and advocacy organisations focusing on social services, human rights, health, or environmental justice.
• Market and social research, data analysis, survey organisations and consultancy.
• Education, journalism, and communications roles that benefit from strong critical thinking and writing skills.
• Further study in fields such as law, public policy, social work, urban planning or graduate degrees in sociology, political science or related disciplines.

Internships, practicum placements and undergraduate research undertaken during the degree enhance employability by providing practical experience and professional networks.

Why study at University of Vermont

The University of Vermont offers an engaged, undergraduate-focused environment with faculty active in interdisciplinary social-science research and community partnerships across the state. Located in Burlington, the programme benefits from proximity to state government, NGOs and a vibrant civic sector, creating plentiful opportunities for internships and applied projects.

UVM emphasises experiential and community-engaged learning, accessible faculty mentorship and undergraduate research opportunities. Small class sizes in upper-level seminars, combined with a liberal-arts foundation and options to study away or undertake fieldwork, give students flexibility to tailor their degree toward academic or professional goals.