Social Science | Undergraduate and Graduate Programs
Undergraduate Programs
African and African American Studies
The African and African American studies program offers students the opportunity to student Africana history and culture through an interdisciplinary lens. Students in this University of Memphis online degree program may focus their studies in the humanities, communications and fine arts, or social and behavioral sciences.
Enrich your knowledge with African and African American studies
Anthropology
Anthropology majors in this University of Memphis degree program develop cross-cultural communication, human relations, critical thinking, writing, analysis, evaluation, problem-solving, planning, and community outreach skills. It is an ideal field to prepare for jobs that require people skills, and understanding of multicultural and institutional dynamics.
Unlock your potential in Anthropology
Child Development and Family Studies Concentration
Child Development and Family Studies focuses on recognizing and enhancing important developmental milestones for children from birth through adolescence. Students in this bachelor’s degree online program will learn how to create effective learning environments to promote children's healthy development as well as assist parents in creating positive relationships and environments for the development of their children.
Learn more about Child Development and Family Studies
Child Life Specialist Concentration
The Bachelor of Professional Studies’ Child Life Specialist University of Memphis online degree concentration focuses on developing the skills needed to become a child life specialist. Child life specialists areprofessionals who work closely with children and their families in hospitals and other settings to help them cope with the challenges of hospitalization, illness, and disability.
Start your journey to becoming a Child Life Specialist
Legal Studies
The Legal Studies University of Memphis degree program teaches theoretical and practical aspects of the field of law as a profession. This bachelor’s degree online program equips students to offer substantive legal support services to firms and agencies or to continue their education in law school.
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Communication
The Department of Communication at the University of Memphis helps its undergraduate majors to understand more fully what communication is and how it can be applied effectively in a variety of contexts and settings. online bachelor’s degree program provides needed background and skills that help to make students successful in their chosen professional careers, as well as prepare them for advanced graduate study.
Unlock your communication potential
Criminology and Criminal Justice
The study of crime and justice is complex as researchers, practitioners, and policy makers tackle issues of policing strategies, corrections, capital punishment, violence, gangs, addiction, and international crime. University of Memphis online degree programs emphasizes research, scholarship, service and community outreach.
Learn more about the Criminology degree
Early Care & Learning
The Bachelor of Professional Studies in Early Care and Learning develops students’ knowledge and skills in child development and learning, observation and assessment, pedagogy and research through classroom and field experiences. Students in this online bachelor’s degree program will be prepared for employment in a discipline working with children aged birth to 4 years old and their families, and may pursue graduate training that leads to careers in education, academia, research, health professions, or social work.
Start building your career in early childhood education today
Early Intervention
The Bachelor of Professional Studies in Early Intervention (ages 0-3) focuses on recognizing
the uniqueness of the provision of instruction and/or service coordination in the
field of Part C the Federal IDEA legislation for early intervention (ages 0-3).
International and Global Studies
The International and Global Studies University of Memphis degree program provides students with the opportunity to learn about the world from an interdisciplinary perspective. In bringing together several traditional disciplines, including Political Science, Economics, Anthropology, Geography, and History,students gain a solid foundation of knowledge concerning international society, global economic systems, as well as myriad national and cultural perspectives on subjects ranging from global security and humanitarianism to transnational history and environmental sustainability.
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Political Science
This University of Memphis online degree offering provides students with options and opportunity to complete their degree in a timely format. Courses such as but not limited to American Government, Political Thought, and International Relations are offered each semester including summer in rotation to provide flexibility and to ensure students stay on track to graduate.
Enroll now and secure your future in Political Science
Psychology (BA)
The Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology is designed to achieve several broad objectives: to increase students' understanding of their cultural and natural worlds through greater familiarity with the humanities, natural sciences and social sciences; to enhance their skills in communication, quantitative analysis, and critical reasoning; and to prepare them to fulfill their roles as responsible members of their families, community and society.
Learn more about Psychology (BA)
Psychology (BS)
Aligned with American Psychological Association standards, the Bachelor of Science
in Psychology places a strong emphasis on research, biological psychology, and
Social Work
The Bachelor of Arts in Social Work prepares students for entrance into the profession of social work as generalist practitioners. Social work majors are required to be available for synchronous class sessions for some courses. The BA in social work bachelor’s degree online program requires an in-person field placement with 460 contact hours.
Launch your career in social work
Sociology
The Department of Sociology in the College of Arts and Sciences at The University
of Memphis is proud to offer the online Bachelor of
Graduate Programs
Master of Arts in Communication
The Master of Arts in Communication offers advanced study in communication theory and practice, ideal for professionals aiming to develop expertise in the social science of communication. Whether you're seeking to enhance your knowledge for career advancement or deepen your understanding of human interaction, this program opens the door to numerous career opportunities in social science. It is particularly suitable for those with a social science major or those interested in integrating the principles of communication into broader social science disciplines.
Learn more about MA in CommunicationMaster of Arts in Criminal Justice
The Master of Arts in Criminal Justice explores the criminal justice system through a social science lens, preparing students to apply critical analysis and research to real-world situations. If you’ve been asking what is a social science degree and how it applies to criminal justice, this program offers practical knowledge rooted in the social sciences. Graduates will find exciting career opportunities in social science, specifically within law enforcement, policy analysis, and corrections.
Advance your career in criminal justice
Master of Arts in Journalism and Strategic Media
This Master of Arts in Journalism and Strategic Media is perfect for those looking to advance their careers in media and communications, with an emphasis on how the social science degree principles can be applied in modern journalism. Whether you're exploring career opportunities in social science or refining your ability to tell compelling stories, this degree will help you understand the impact of media in shaping society, especially from a social science perspective.
Take the next step towards your career in media
Master of Nonprofit Management
Designed for those passionate about creating social change, the Master of Nonprofit Management provides students with the social science degree foundation needed for leading organizations that address societal issues. This degree prepares you for diverse career opportunities in social science, especially in nonprofit leadership, community organizing, and advocacy. It is ideal for those who have a social science major and are looking to make a positive impact in the nonprofit sector.
Become a nonprofit leader today
Master of Science in Vocational Rehabilitation
The Master of Science in Vocational Rehabilitation offers a unique opportunity to blend social science principles with practical rehabilitation skills. Students will explore how social science intersects with healthcare, disability services, and employment assistance, providing opportunities for individuals to lead independent lives. Graduates will be well-equipped to find career opportunities in social science, particularly in rehabilitation counseling and community-based programs.
Learn more about Vocational Rehabilitation (M.S.)
Master of Social Work Program Including Advanced Standing Track
The Master of Social Work (MSW) program equips students with advanced social science research and practice skills, preparing them for roles in social services, counseling, and public policy. Whether you're continuing from a bachelor of social science background or have earned a social science major, this program provides students with a deep understanding of social issues and their solutions, opening the door to diverse career opportunities in social science.
Take the next step in your social work career
Doctor of Social Work
The Doctor of Social Work (DSW) is an advanced program designed for experienced professionals looking to lead in the social work field. By integrating research, leadership, and practice, this program helps students understand the larger social forces at play, providing valuable insight into how a degree in social science can shape societal solutions. Graduates will be positioned for impactful career opportunities in social science, focusing on leadership roles in social work and policy reform.
Learn more about a Doctor in Social Work
Graduate Certificate in Health Communication
The Graduate Certificate in Health Communication uses a social science approach to communication in healthcare, addressing barriers and improving patient care. Understanding the social dynamics of healthcare is essential, and this program helps students develop the skills needed to impact health systems. Whether you're working toward a bachelor of social science or have a background in the social sciences, this certificate enhances your ability to engage with health-related issues, creating career opportunities in social science.
Learn More about a certificate in Health Communication
Graduate Certificate in Play Therapy
The Graduate Certificate in Play Therapy prepares students to work with children in therapeutic settings. Drawing on social science research, students will understand how to use play as a tool for emotional and psychological development. This certificate is an excellent choice for those with a social science major, helping them gain specialized skills in the application of social science principles to therapy, and offering exciting career opportunities in social science.
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Graduate Certificate in Local Government Management
The Graduate Certificate in Local Government Management equips students with the practical knowledge necessary for leadership roles in local government. It combines public administration with the social science degree framework, ensuring students understand the social dynamics and challenges of governance. Graduates will find career opportunities in social science through leadership positions in municipal governments, policy analysis, and public administration.
Learn more about a Grad Certificate in Local Government Management
Graduate Certificate in Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership
This Graduate Certificate in Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership is ideal for individuals looking to apply their social science degree to the nonprofit sector. Students will explore how the social sciences intersect with philanthropy, helping them become more effective leaders in organizations that support social causes. This certificate provides career opportunities in social science, particularly in nonprofit management and social advocacy roles.
Learn more about Philanthropy and Leadership
Graduate Certificate in School Social Work
The Graduate Certificate in School Social Work prepares students to work as social workers in educational settings, utilizing a social science degree to understand student needs and support well-being. This certificate is perfect for those pursuing career opportunities in social science, particularly in schools, where the principles of social work can have a profound impact on students' lives.
Learn more about School Social Work
Graduate Certificate in Entrepreneurial Journalism
The Graduate Certificate in Entrepreneurial Journalism focuses on integrating social science research with modern media practices. It prepares students to navigate the evolving media landscape and engage audiences through entrepreneurial journalism practices. Graduates will be positioned to find career opportunities in social science, applying research, storytelling, and audience engagement in the digital media field.
Read about a Grad Certificate in Entrepreneurial Journalism
Graduate Certificate in Multimedia Storytelling
This Graduate Certificate in Multimedia Storytelling enhances students’ storytelling abilities using a combination of social science theory and multimedia tools. Understanding how to effectively communicate with diverse audiences is crucial, and this certificate helps students prepare for career opportunities in social science, particularly in media and digital communications.
Learn more about Multimedia Storytelling
Graduate Certificate in Social Media Analysis and Strategy
The Graduate Certificate in Social Media Analysis and Strategy helps students develop expertise in social media through the lens of social science degree principles. Students will learn to analyze social behavior, engagement patterns, and influence strategies, which are vital for managing online communities. This certificate prepares graduates for career opportunities in social science, especially in digital marketing, public relations, and media strategy.
Read more about a graduate degree in Social Media Analysis and Strategy
Graduate Certificate in Substance Abuse
The Graduate Certificate in Substance Abuse takes a social science approach to addiction treatment, providing students with the knowledge and skills to work with individuals affected by substance use disorders. This program is perfect for those with a social science major or those interested in expanding their understanding of behavioral health. Graduates will find numerous career opportunities in social science within healthcare, rehabilitation, and community-based services.
Read more about a degree in Substance Abuse