Online associate degree programs in social science

If you'd like to pursue a career with a lot of advancement potential, an online associate degree in social science is a great place to start. An associate degree typically requires two years to complete, and can either stand alone or serve as a stepping stone to a more advanced degree.

What do social science students study?

Students enrolled in online associate degree programs in social science are often required to choose a concentration. Among the most common social science majors:

• Social Services
• Psychology
• History and Political Science
• Mass Communications

Like most degree programs, online associate degree programs in social science typically include general education courses--like math, science, and English--in addition to major-specific coursework. You'll be challenged to sharpen your reading and writing skills, and to put your critical thinking skills to use.

Online associate degree programs in social science prepare students for a variety of careers, though which one best suits you depends on which concentration you choose. Many careers based in the social sciences can require degrees in social sciences beyond the associate level. Here are just a few of the many potential careers you can pursue with degrees in social science.

Careers for social science graduates

Teachers typically hold bachelor's degrees and earn teacher certification. Earning your associate degree in social science is a great first step to teaching a related discipline, like history and political science. Employment of kindergarten, elementary, middle, and secondary school teachers is expected to grow by 13 percent between 2008 and 2018. May 2009, median salary for teachers: $55,150.

Journalists often earn bachelor degrees in journalism or mass communications, but for some employers, an associate degree is sufficient. Employment is expected to decline somewhat between 2008 and 2018. May 2009, median salary for journalists: $43,270.

Psychologists must earn master's or doctoral degrees in psychology or behavioral science, though an associate degree is a great way to test the waters before committing yourself to a more intensive program. Psychologist careers are expected to grow 12 percent between 2008 and 2018. May 2009, median annual salary for psychologists: $84,220.

Social Workers typically earn bachelors or masters degrees in the social sciences, though earning your associate degree is a great first step. According to the BLS, employment for social workers is expected to grow by an impressive 12 percent between 2008 and 2018. May 2009, median salary for social workers: $50,470.

Keep in mind that whichever field you choose, know that the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that incomes improve and unemployment rates decrease with education, meaning those who have graduated from online associate degree programs in social science will likely earn more than those with high school diplomas alone.

Visit our Guide to College Majors to learn more about social science degree programs, including majors in history, political science, journalism, behavioral science and social work.

• Degrees by Level