Careers for Social Scientists

The social sciences are a varied collection of disciplines that study human behavior, society and interactions. At Concordia University Nebraska, majors like psychology, behavioral science, history, geography and criminal justice cover much of the span of the social sciences and offer students of many interests a variety of career options. Although there are jobs incorporating social topics in nearly every field, these ten careers are especially involved in the social sciences.  

Social worker 

Social workers are professionals who help individuals, groups and families cope with issues in their everyday lives by diagnosing, treating and preventing behavioral and emotional problems. They often work in a clinical setting, although they can be employed in places from schools to hospitals to therapists’ offices. A master’s degree and licensure are required for clinical social workers, but other requirements vary by state. The average annual salary for a social worker is $58,000.  

Therapist or counselor 

There are many types of therapists and counselors, most of whom specialize in providing support for individuals or groups who suffer from myriad psychological, emotional or behavioral concerns. The opportunities for specialization within the field of counseling are many; from licensed clinical counselors to school counselors, child and adolescent therapists and beyond, there is a need for professionals in many populations. Salaries range greatly depending on location, education and general duties, but the median for all therapists is $53,000.  

Teacher or professor 

Education is also a highly varied field that offers many opportunities for employment for those who are interested in the social sciences. For example, one might teach social studies or history to elementary school students, psychology to high school students or even teach specialized criminal justice courses at the collegiate level. Instructing future generations of social scientists will be your career as a teacher or professor. Salaries are highly variable for this broad category, but teachers in public schools can expect to earn around $60,000.  

Police officer 

For criminal justice majors, working as a police officer is a common post-graduation choice. Although the work of a police officer is demanding and sometimes even dangerous, it can be a very rewarding path to follow. Law enforcement officers may work for small towns or large cities, specialize or work generally, or work in a specific location. Education requirements vary based on location and the median salary rests at just below $75,000.   

Lawyer 

The profession of a lawyer is one that requires hard work, dedication and an extended educational path. After receiving an undergraduate degree, future lawyers must attend a law school program, typically lasting for around three years. Then, they must pass the “bar exam” before they can start practicing as an attorney. Over time, they may advance and become a “partner” at the firm for which they work, or they may even become an elected judge. Salaries for lawyers are typically around $145,000.  

Demographer 

Demographers are professionals in the field of statistics and population research. They work to collect and analyze population-level data that can inform the practices of government agencies, law firms and more. Becoming a demographer usually includes education up to at least a master’s degree, as well as relevant internship or job experience. Demographers may use statistical software, elicit research responses or communicate findings to various groups. Salaries range from $80,000-$100,000. 

Librarian  

For students interested in general social sciences as well as library science, a career as a librarian or library media specialist is a perfect combination. Librarians typically need a master’s in library science. On a daily basis, librarians make and use library databases, organize materials, lead programs, complete research and more. The median salary for librarians is $64,000.  

GIS Specialist 

GIS, or "geographic information systems,” is a program that creates a career specialty closely connected to geographical studies. GIS is a computer-based program that allows specialists to collect, analyze and display geographic data. The technology can be found in fields such as healthcare, urban planning, geology and even marketing. Specialists can help workers in these areas to apply GIS to their practice, enhancing how they collect and understand data. Salaries for GIS specialists typically range from $60,000-$70,000.  

Museum Curator 

Museums need workers who are “in the background” and possess knowledge about what will eventually be displayed to the public. These curators may oversee museums’ collections, organize archival materials, help other workers organize special exhibits, systematize records and more. Typically, museum curators need to hold at least a bachelor’s degree in a field like history, social science or fine arts. Future museum curators may also benefit from internship or undergraduate work experience. The average salary for such professionals is $57,000.  

Nonprofit manager 

Nonprofit managers can work in numerous sectors of society, including at some hospitals, daycare centers, private foundations and more. Their job descriptions vary, but all of them help lead, manage or direct nonprofit companies. Depending on the size of the organization, they may be the sole leader or a department leader. Salaries typically fall around $120,000.  

Social science majors at Concordia University, Nebraska include criminal justice, behavioral science, psychology, history and art therapy. Students with interests in any of these areas can find a place at the university, where they are promised a Lutheran, Christian higher education that equips them not only with skills and a degree, but also a sense of vocation and purpose for the future. Learn more about applying to Concordia here.