Felician University

What you'll study

The programme provides a broad, interdisciplinary grounding in the major social science disciplines while emphasising applied research skills and social responsibility. Core topics include sociological theory, social inequality, political institutions and behaviour, introductory and developmental psychology, cultural anthropology, statistics for the social sciences, and research methods.

Typical components of the degree include:

• Foundations: introductory courses in sociology, political science and psychology that establish conceptual frameworks and vocabulary.
• Methods and analysis: quantitative and qualitative research methods, basic statistics, survey design, and data analysis tailored to social-science questions.
• Thematic modules: subjects such as social stratification, race and ethnicity, gender studies, public policy, community development and criminology.
• Experiential learning: community-based learning, internships with local agencies or government, service-learning projects and fieldwork reflecting Felician's emphasis on social justice and community engagement.
• Capstone or senior seminar: a final research project or seminar in which students apply theory and methods to a sustained study or community problem.

Students also fulfil general education requirements and can choose electives or minors to tailor the degree to interests such as criminal justice, human services, public administration or international studies.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised high-school diploma or equivalent. Admissions typically consider the overall academic record, strength of secondary-school coursework, and any supporting materials such as a personal statement, academic references or an admissions interview.

Felician University follows a holistic review process; standard considerations include:

• A completed secondary education with a competitive GPA and evidence of readiness for college-level work.
• Letters of recommendation or school counsellor comment where requested.
• A personal statement or essay outlining academic interests and motivation for studying social sciences.
• For applicants whose first language is not English, evidence of English proficiency through accepted tests or prior education in English.

SAT or ACT scores may be considered in line with institutional policy, but applicants should check current admissions guidance for test‑optional practices and any programme-specific requirements. Mature students and those with prior college credit or relevant work experience are encouraged to contact the admissions office to discuss transfer or non-traditional entry pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Social Sciences programme leave with analytical skills, research literacy and practical experience suited to a variety of entry-level roles. Common career paths include social services and case management, community outreach and advocacy, programme coordination for non-profit organisations, policy support roles in local government, and research or data‑analysis positions.

The degree also provides a solid foundation for continued study at graduate level in fields such as social work, public administration, education, law or advanced social-science research. Many alumni work in areas that reflect the programme's community focus: family and youth services, health and human services, criminal justice support roles, and civic engagement organisations.

Why study at Felician University

Felician University emphasises small class sizes and personalised faculty mentoring, allowing students to work closely with professors on research and community projects. The university’s Franciscan values shape a curriculum that foregrounds social justice, ethical leadership and service to others.

Students benefit from strong local partnerships across New Jersey and the New York metropolitan area that create internship and practicum opportunities with non-profits, schools and municipal agencies. Support services include career advising, internship placement assistance and tutoring, helping students convert classroom learning into practical experience and career-ready skills.

Whether you seek a broad liberal‑arts education with practical experience or plan to move on to graduate study, the Social Sciences programme at Felician provides a flexible, values-driven pathway to pursuing work that addresses social challenges and community needs.