According to Degree Directory.com, the social sciences are disciplines that have to do with people and how people have changed the world and society. Some examples of social science degrees include sociology, criminal justice, and political science. Some universities consider psychology a social science, while others place this major within another classification. Regardless, students planning to study psychology at the graduate level often benefit from course work in the social sciences.

In today's world, social science degrees like those focusing on homeland security and criminal justice are demanded by both the private and public sectors. Additionally, law and the training required to become a lawyer or paralegal fit into the arena of social sciences. A versatile degree, training in the social sciences can open doors to many opportunities for careers and further education. Some graduate schools and law schools prefer students who come to them with a background in social sciences if those students are pursuing a degree related to a field of social study. Additionally, many careers look favorably on students who have completed social sciences degrees. Individuals who want to serve as social workers, directors of social programs, and direct care support staff to those who cannot live on their own may benefit from a degree in the social sciences. Even employers in the fields of business, marketing, etc. often give the positive edge to individuals with social sciences degrees because they have demonstrated an ability to understand and work with people.

What is required to complete online social sciences degrees?

Degree Directory.com lists one crucial difference between social science degrees and degrees in the arts and humanities. Social science degrees are called such because they rely on science to some degree. However, this does not mean that one must have a strong background in science-related subjects like anatomy and physiology to earn such a degree. Instead, social science degrees will focus heavily on applying theories to situations and using the scientific method. Additionally, most social science majors are required to take at least one math course above basic math. Often, this course is statistics, and is used to teach social science majors how to do field experiments and how to interpret those experiments when reading them in social sciences journals. Many online social science degrees offer preparatory programs for those who need to brush up on their math skills before taking this course, but you must be able to pass the math course to earn your degree. Additionally, if you plan to specialize in statistics, economics, or another mathematically-centered field, you may need to take more mathematics courses.

Other skills that you will need to become proficient in as you complete your online social science degree include:

• Logic
• Secondary Research
• Surveys and Primary Research
• The Memorization of Facts

What kind of jobs can I get with online social sciences degrees?

Because the social sciences cover a myriad of special program areas, individuals who graduate with degrees have a variety of careers to choose from. Additionally, what career a social science diploma earner can have is based at least partially on the type of degree received. One career often available for individuals with associate's, bachelor's, or master's degree in the social sciences is social worker. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most agencies hiring social workers require, at minimum, a bachelor's degree. However, an associate's degree is acceptable in some situations. Getting a Master's of Social Work is recommended for those who wish to advance in the field. Additionally, obtaining a Master's of Social Work and entering the field of public aide is often the second career of choice for many who have either retired or found their previous jobs less than fulfilling. The Bureau defines a social worker as a person who wants to help others and who aides them in solving everyday problems. Social workers are hired by government offices, schools, places of worship, and other organizations that seek to help the public. The Bureau lists the median income of social workers as just under $40,000; however, income differs significantly based on the employing agency.

Another career opportunity for individuals with online social science degrees is police officer. While the Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that a high school diploma and passing an examination is all that is necessary to become a police officer, obtaining an online social sciences degree can open up doors for advancement. For instance, a degree in criminal justice can make it easier to join the FBI, which requires bachelor's degrees, or serve in a certain agency or department. Online social sciences degrees are optimal for people already working as police officers, but who want to complete college so that they can earn promotions. There are also many private jobs available for individuals with criminal justice degrees. These include working as part of a security staff or in the field of loss prevention. Employment opportunities are expected to rise for police officers through 2018, although competition is expected for those who want to serve in state and federal police departments. The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists a median income of just over $50,000 for local police. However, incomes vary significantly due to the employing agency. Private security officials and homeland security officers, as well as other specialists, can make significantly different amounts of money.

Other than these two popular careers, the following are some other popular careers for individuals who graduate with degrees in social sciences:

• Lawyer*
• Counselor
• Social Studies Teacher*
• Public Service Administrator
• Corporate Liaison

* Require Additional Education

Where Can I get social sciences degrees online?

Many online universities offer social science degrees that range from associate's degrees in social work to the jurist doctorate degrees required to become a lawyer. The following are a few examples of these institutions:

Kaplan University

Offering programs both online and at its many satellite schools, Kaplan University has several online social science degrees, including criminal justice and legal studies. In addition to offering bachelor's and master's degrees, Kaplan University also runs Concord Law School, which offers legal degrees from home. A law degree is an advanced graduate degree that can prepare you to work as a trial lawyer, research lawyer, or in one of many legal professions. You can visit Kaplan University at www.kaplan.edu and Concord Law School at www.concordlawschool.com.

Walden University

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

This specialized school is a resource for individuals who are looking for advanced degrees in psychology. A private, non-profit institution, the school is accredited by two accrediting bodies, and is a member of the National Council of Schools and Programs of Professional Psychology. The courses offered through this online learning institution focus on theory and practice, and they require all students to spend some time online together to meet residency requirements. Offering Master's and PhD programs in a number of specializations, this degree is useful for both practicing psychologists and individuals looking to gain skills that will advance them in their careers.

Stratford Career Institute

If you're just beginning the search for higher education and a career, Stratford Career Institute could be a resource for you. From the high school diploma through career training, Stratford Career Institute has online programs that are designed to help students enter careers that will fulfill them personally and professionally. Located at 12 Champlain Commons in St. Albans, VT, Stratford Career Institute offers programs in both social work and counseling, such as child psychology courses and drug and alcohol counseling. Although they are not college degrees, Stratford Career Institute can get you ready to attend college, in addition to giving you a certification that will give you an edge in the job hunt. Stratford Career Institute is located at www.scitraining.com.

Whether you're busy working in a social services field or looking to get a degree to get a real career, online social science degrees can lead you to a lucrative career. With courses that can get you jobs in the government, public sector, and educational fields, online social science degrees allow you to get your career to where you want to be without wasting your time, quitting your job, or causing strain on your family.