Best Online Master’s in Social Studies Programs

Social studies address society’s diverse and changing nature and its systems and environments. In an online master’s in social studies, students better understand social sciences and humanities and how to share that knowledge with others.These widely applicable programs can prepare you for many education and social science careers, such as a sociologist or high school teacher.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the addition of more than 920,000 education jobs between 2020-2030, along with nearly 115,000 life, physical, and social science jobs in that same period. At many of the top online schools, you can specialize your training in areas like education, sociology, political science, or management.

When choosing a graduate school, you should pick a program that offers the training depth and direction you need to pursue your dream career. Here, we explore the social studies discipline and show you what to expect from a master’s program and the application process. We also highlight possible career paths.

A master’s in social studies program can vary widely. They often last between 1-2 years and feature 30-45 credits. Students in these programs examine all types of social issues, movements, and developments, along with many different contexts and group structures.

Prospective social studies students may encounter MA, MS, or education degree types when preparing for graduate school. Most master’s in social studies programs focus on education and teacher preparation, though other options are available. In general, MA programs take an interdisciplinary approach to the training. MS programs usually focus on technical training.

Social studies students usually choose a specialization to focus their training. Learners can concentrate in various subfields, such as sociology, economics, political science, and anthropology. Within these disciplines, they can focus even further and study specific industries, organizations, or social developments.

In addition to theoretical lessons and classwork, social studies students can participate in practical training opportunities. Options may include internships, field exercises, and volunteering experiences. In an online master’s in social studies, learners can usually access the same opportunities locally.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

This course examines the various perspectives of major societal changes and activities. Students explore the leading social theories on historical developments and movements. They also study the development of contemporary systems and structures.

In this course, students explore sociological perspectives on gender, race, and ethnicity. They look at various topics, including status, movements, and intersectionality, while also investigating current situations and systems.

Students in this course analyze various social policies, systems, and practices. They examine the development processes of policies and their practical implications on different social groups, such as low-income individuals.

In this course, students look at the processes, policies, and institutions involved with immigration and community development. Coursework examines the barriers facing immigrants and social policies that impact historically excluded immigrant communities.

This course explores the various perspectives, cultures, and relationships between groups worldwide. Learners analyze differences among people and groups and study various conflicts. They also investigate public policies that help or hinder people.

A master’s in social studies grants graduates access to many professions and industries. Depending on their degree type and training focus, they may pursue education, economist, political scientist, or organizational manager roles. They can work for the government, research and development, or consulting services.

The BLS projects strong growth between 2020-2030 for many master’s in social studies jobs. The projections include 9% growth for political scientists, 10% for education professionals, and 13% for economists. These fields also reported competitive median annual salaries in May 2020, including $125,350 for political scientists and $108,350 for economists. In education, social studies graduates may access teaching, administrative, and management roles.

Discover where a master’s in social studies can lead. Learn more about social science careers.

These professionals study political systems, policies, and theories. They analyze the political effects on people and groups and monitor and forecast trends. They also help people and organizations make decisions based on their findings. Aspiring political scientists might choose politics, governance, and public policy courses and specializations.

Median Annual Salary: $125,350

These professionals study the movement and market of goods and services. They analyze economic data, trends, and issues to find solutions and predict outcomes for people, organizations, and governments. Social studies students should focus their studies on economics and public policy if they wish to pursue this career path.

Median Annual Salary: $108,350

These professionals study society and the various people, groups, and interactions within it. They investigate and analyze social issues and data to bring awareness and policy changes. They work with governments, educators, and lawmakers to develop solutions and improved policies.

Median Annual Salary: $86,110

Instructional coordinators help develop the learning materials and curricula for schools and school boards. They analyze student outcomes and curriculum standards to create new lessons and testing materials that improve students’ learning and satisfy educational policies. These professionals may need a teaching license to work in some schools.

Median Annual Salary: $66,970

High school teachers educate students in their field of expertise. They review curricula and organize lessons depending on class and student needs. They also create the learning materials, teach lessons, and adhere to school policies and standards. High school teachers help prepare students for life after school, which requires talking to individual students and their families.

Median Annual Salary: $62,870

In addition to a wealth of postgraduate career options, graduates with an online master’s in social studies can access many continuing education paths. They can pursue the educational route, such as a doctorate in education, a doctorate in educational administration, or a doctorate in curriculum and instruction. They can also pursue a doctorate in sociology, economics, or political science, along with a doctorate in public administration.

Social studies graduates may also follow a business path, such as earning a doctorate in organizational leadership or a doctorate in human resources.