I recently came across an article by Business Insider about the college majors with the highest unemployment rates.
Unsurprisingly, a social science major topped it: anthropology, or the study of the origins of society, cultures, traditions, and norms.
Sociology and public policy, which is quite similar to political science, are also on the list. So, is a social science bachelor’s degree worth it?
I finished a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, and wrote about it. I was expecting that it would at least help me enter the government sector, but I couldn’t despite having passed the civil service exam.
Confucian teachings became the foundation for the civil service exam used in ancient China.
Then, research and analyst positions in the private sector require a graduate degree. Same with professorship; it also requires a graduate degree.
Given that, I think social science bachelor’s degrees must be taken to another level to be worth it. Many of the best jobs require a graduate degree.
Is a Social Science Bachelor’s Degree Worth It?
This is not to bash the field. I love social sciences. I even started this publication because I want to talk about social science stuff.
But that is the thing: I am writing about social sciences, not just political science. Everything I didn’t learn in school, I learn using online resources.
I don’t spend time and money on whatever social science classes there are. It is not worth it, as I am only after the knowledge.
But I gained some important skills in college, which help me do my job well today. So, I know there are good reasons for getting a degree.
You Gain Critical Thinking Skills
For sure, you will develop critical thinking skills with a social science bachelor’s degree because you will connect lots of dots.
You will also look at situations from different angles, break down information, and decide what makes sense based on facts.
According to Plato, we must use reason because it helps us discover truth and live a good, just life instead of being ruled by our emotions or desires.
This is useful in any job, which is why many hiring managers look for it, especially for positions that are data-heavy.
Your Communication Skills Will Improve
Social sciences, regardless of the field, teach how to argue and explain concepts effectively, both in writing and speaking.
You will present in front of the class, write essays, and debate with others (some of whom may be smarter than you).
These activities will help you get your point across and defend it if faced with opposition, as well as listen to other viewpoints intently.
You Become Socially and Culturally Aware
A big part of social sciences is understanding how people live, think, and interact across different cultures and communities.
You will study poverty, race, gender, politics, and global issues. So, when reading the news, you can quickly have an idea why things happened.
It also helps you work better with others, especially in diverse teams, because you can relate to people from all walks of life.
A Social Science Bachelor’s Degree Can Be Worth It But Is Not Practical
I mentioned in this article that there is money in social sciences, but many of the jobs that pay well require a graduate degree.
This is why people might nudge you toward “more practical” majors, such as engineering and accountancy, where you just need to pass a licensure exam, and you can start your own firm right away if no one hires you.
I am not devaluing social sciences, okay?
I don’t regret that I quit civil engineering (it was my first college major), or that I changed my mind about pursuing law (I might change my mind again).
Honestly, knowing that I am “aware” feels good. It makes me more human because I am connected to the world around me.
But then, it is not practical.
