Department of Social Sciences

Department of Social Sciences

Understand societal dynamics with majors in Psychology, Sociology, and Political Science. At Abide University, you’ll engage in community research, fieldwork, and policy labs to make a real impact on the world around you.

Degree Programs

B.A. in Psychology

Explore the complexities of human behavior, cognition, and mental processes. Develop analytical skills and a deep understanding of psychological theories and research methods.

Specialization areas:

  • Clinical & Counseling Psychology
  • Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Social & Personality Psychology

Features research labs, counseling practicums, and diverse internship opportunities.

B.A. in Sociology

Analyze social structures, patterns of inequality, cultural dynamics, and social change. Develop skills in research, critical thinking, and community engagement.

Specialization areas:

  • Social Justice & Inequality
  • Urban Sociology & Community Development
  • Criminology & Deviance
  • Medical Sociology

Offers extensive fieldwork, community-based research projects, and social impact initiatives.

B.A. in Political Science

Study systems of government, political behavior, public policy, and international relations. Develop analytical and advocacy skills for careers in public service and beyond.

Specialization areas:

  • Public Policy & Administration
  • Comparative Politics
  • International Relations & Diplomacy
  • Political Theory

Includes policy analysis labs, Model UN participation, and internships in government agencies or NGOs.

B.A. in International Relations

Understand global political dynamics, international law, diplomacy, and cross-cultural communication in an interconnected world.

Specialization areas:

  • Global Security & Conflict Resolution
  • International Political Economy
  • Human Rights & International Law
  • Regional Studies (e.g., Asia, Europe, Middle East)

Features study abroad programs, global research projects, and language immersion opportunities.

B.A. in Economics

Master economic theory, quantitative analysis, and policy evaluation to understand market behavior and inform decision-making.

Specialization areas:

  • Microeconomics & Market Analysis
  • Macroeconomics & Monetary Policy
  • Development Economics
  • Econometrics & Data Analysis

Offers econometrics labs, independent research projects, and consulting opportunities.

B.A. in Anthropology

Study human cultures, societies, and their development across time and space, using ethnographic methods and cross-cultural perspectives.

Specialization areas:

  • Cultural Anthropology
  • Archaeology & Material Culture
  • Linguistic Anthropology
  • Medical Anthropology

Includes ethnographic fieldwork, archaeological digs, and museum studies.

B.S. in Criminology & Criminal Justice

Examine the causes of crime, the workings of the criminal justice system, and strategies for crime prevention and rehabilitation.

Specialization areas:

  • Law Enforcement & Corrections
  • Juvenile Justice & Delinquency
  • Victimology & Restorative Justice
  • Forensic Science & Crime Scene Investigation

Features internships with law enforcement agencies, court observations, and mock trial experiences.

M.S. in Clinical Psychology

Develop advanced skills in psychological assessment, diagnosis, and therapeutic interventions for diverse populations.

Specialization areas:

  • Child & Adolescent Psychology
  • Adult Psychopathology
  • Neuropsychology
  • Health Psychology

Includes supervised clinical practicums, research thesis, and preparation for licensure.

M.A. in Sociology & Social Research

Master advanced sociological theory, research methodologies (quantitative & qualitative), and data analysis techniques for academic or applied careers.

Specialization areas:

  • Advanced Social Theory
  • Qualitative & Quantitative Research Methods
  • Social Stratification & Mobility
  • Applied Social Research & Program Evaluation

Features thesis research, statistical software training, and community-based research projects.

M.A. in Public Policy & Administration

Develop expertise in policy analysis, public management, and governance to lead effectively in public and non-profit sectors.

Specialization areas:

  • Policy Analysis & Evaluation
  • Public Financial Management
  • Nonprofit Management & Leadership
  • Urban & Regional Policy

Includes capstone policy projects, internships with government agencies, and leadership seminars.

Ph.D. in Psychology

Conduct original research contributing to the advancement of psychological science, preparing for careers in academia, research, or clinical practice.

Research Concentrations:

  • Clinical Science
  • Cognitive & Behavioral Neuroscience
  • Social-Personality Psychology
  • Developmental Science

Offers advanced statistical training, dissertation mentorship, and teaching assistantship opportunities.

Ph.D. in Sociology

Engage in rigorous theoretical and empirical research to address critical social issues and contribute to sociological knowledge.

Research Concentrations:

  • Race, Ethnicity & Migration
  • Gender & Sexuality Studies
  • Global & Transnational Sociology
  • Environmental Sociology & Justice

Provides advanced methodological workshops, grant writing support, and collaborative research opportunities.

Fieldwork & Community Engagement

Community Research Labs

Work with local organizations on social impact projects, surveys, and needs assessments.

Service Learning & Civic Engagement

Apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges through volunteering, advocacy, and community service projects.

Public Policy & Advocacy Labs

Collaborate on policy analysis, legislative research, and public affairs campaigns with faculty and government partners.

International Fieldwork & Research

Participate in international research projects, study abroad programs, and cross-cultural immersion experiences.

Nonprofit & NGO Partnerships

Collaborate with local and international non-governmental organizations on projects addressing social issues and community needs.

Urban Studies & Community Planning Workshops

Engage in participatory planning processes, urban design charrettes, and community development initiatives in local neighborhoods.

Meet Our Faculty

Dr. Alan Kim
Dr. Alan Kim
Professor of Psychology
"Cognitive science, mental health, and counseling."
Dr. Priya Desai
Dr. Priya Desai
Associate Professor, Sociology
"Social change, inequality, and community research."
Dr. Samuel Lee
Dr. Samuel Lee
Assistant Professor, Political Science
"Policy analysis, international relations, and governance."

Student Life & Opportunities

Social Sciences Society

Join a vibrant community of changemakers. Organize debates, research symposia, and social events.

Policy Debate & Model UN

Participate in policy debates, model UN conferences, and research competitions. Build your resume and win awards.

Internships & Fieldwork Placements

Gain real-world experience in NGOs, government agencies, research institutes, and community organizations.

International Exchange Programs

Study abroad or join global research programs. Experience new cultures and expand your global perspective on social issues.

Student Research Journal

Publish your research, essays, and policy briefs in the student-led Social Sciences Journal, gaining valuable editorial experience.

Guest Lecture Series & Workshops

Attend talks by leading scholars, policymakers, and community activists. Participate in skill-building workshops.

Research & Policy Impact

Psychology & Behavioral Science Lab

Collaborate on projects in mental health, cognition, and behavioral science. Present at conferences and publish in journals.

Center for Urban & Community Research

Study social change, inequality, urban development, and community dynamics. Partner with local organizations for impact.

Institute for Policy & Governance Studies

Analyze public policy, governance structures, and international relations. Work with faculty and government partners on real-world issues.

Conflict Resolution & Peace Studies Initiative

Research causes of conflict, peacebuilding strategies, and international mediation efforts. Engage with practitioners and policymakers.

Applied Economics & Social Data Lab

Utilize quantitative methods and big data to analyze economic trends, social behavior, and policy effectiveness.

Gender & Social Justice Research Collective

Explore issues of gender, sexuality, race, and class, focusing on intersectionality and promoting social equity through research.

What Our Students Say

The fieldwork and policy labs gave me real experience and helped me land an internship at a think tank.
— Aizhan, Political Science '25
The faculty and research centers helped me publish my first paper and present at a national conference.
— Timur, Sociology '24
The international exchange program broadened my perspective and inspired my career in diplomacy.
— Meerim, International Relations '25

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply to the Department of Social Sciences?
Apply online through the Abide University admissions portal. Submit transcripts, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and relevant test scores (e.g., GRE for graduate programs).
Are internships or fieldwork required for all social science majors?
Yes, experiential learning through fieldwork, internships, or research projects is a core component of all our undergraduate and most graduate programs in the Social Sciences.
What global opportunities are available for social science students?
Students can participate in study abroad programs, international fieldwork, global research collaborations, and Model UN conferences.
What research opportunities are available for undergraduates?
Undergraduates can work as research assistants with faculty, undertake independent study projects, participate in summer research programs, and present at our annual Social Sciences Student Symposium.
What kind of careers do social science graduates pursue?
Our graduates are well-prepared for diverse careers in research, policy analysis, social work, counseling, urban planning, international affairs, law, market research, human resources, and education.
Who do I contact for more information?
Email [email protected] or visit the Social Sciences Student Services Office.

Begin Your Social Sciences Journey

Ready to understand, research, and change the world? Apply now or connect with an advisor to learn more about our programs and opportunities.

Apply Now