A career in social science involves researching about human relationships, social interactions and the society.  Social scientists frequently focus on particular sectors of society, such as economics, religion, or politics. Pursuing a career in social science will allow you to explore how individuals interact with one another and with their surroundings. Therefore, you will find this career fulfilling if you have an interest in researching human interaction.

In this piece, I will discuss the requirements and skills needed to start a career in social science.

Steps to Start a Career in Social Science

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

   To pursue this career path, you need a bachelor’s degree. You should apply to study social science or sociology. Additionally, you can pursue a bachelor’s degree in disciplines such as geography, economics, history, political science or anthropology. These disciplines will lay the foundation needed to navigate your career in social science.

2. Gain Experience

   Gaining experience in this field can help you develop your research in your particular areas of interest as well as develop your resume. Additionally, it will enable you to gain practical knowledge in the field and give you access to career experts. You can look for roles such as internships, research teams, or assisting a professor.

3. Develop Relevant Skills

   This career path will require specific skills to help you navigate your career journey. You should build skills such as research skills, communication skills, writing skills, etc.

4. Acquire Advanced Degrees

   You need to acquire advanced degrees as you grow in your career. Obtaining a master’s degree can enable you to choose an area of specialisation and gain knowledge in it. While a doctoral degree can enable you to work in academia. Generally, advanced degrees give you more room for higher opportunities as well as a higher earning potential.

5. Choose an Area of Specialisation

   After earning your qualifications, you should decide the career path you wish to follow in social science. You can decide to pursue your career in areas such as academia, consulting or advocacy. You can decide based on your area of interest or career goals.

Skills Required for Social Scientist

1. Research Skills
2. Writing Skills
3. Active Listening and Observation
4. Analytical Skills
5. Communication Skills
6. Organizational Skills
7. Attention to detail
8. Teamwork Skills

Career Paths in Social Science

1. Sociologist

   Sociologists focus on the way individuals interact in communities. They plan research initiatives and gather information through questionnaires, observations, and discussions. Furthermore, they analyse the information to draw insights that can influence governmental decisions or community solutions to societal problems such as health, crime, and unemployment.

2. Economist

   Economists examine job opportunities, worker efficiency, and remuneration data. Additionally, these experts assist businesses in determining consumer demand and setting service pricing.

3. Social Worker

   Social workers assist their clients in overcoming obstacles. They assess issues and link people to organisations and institutions that can help them. They work in places such as government agencies, hospitals, and nonprofit organizations.

4. Political Scientist

   Political scientists analyse national, international, and political philosophy using both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Additionally, they keep tabs on political decisions and the latest news.

5. Anthropologist

   Anthropologists investigate human origins, expansion, and behaviour. Additionally, they investigate people’s cultures, languages, archaeological artefacts, and physical traits around the world.

6. Counsellors

   Counsellors offer advice to people who want to enhance their mental health. Furthermore, they provide therapies and coping methods that boost the patient’s quality of life.

7. Historian

   A historian investigates the reliability and importance of historical resources and information. Additionally, they oversee the collection and maintenance of objects to throw insight into future research projects.

Universities in Africa that Offer Social Science

1. University of Cape Town, South Africa
2. Covenant University, Nigeria
3. Federal University of Technology, Akure
4. University of Lagos, Nigeria
5. Cairo University, Egypt
6. University of Maiduguri, Nigeria
7. Ain Shams University, Egypt
8. University of Ibadan, Nigeria
9. University of Stellenbosch, South Africa
10. North-West University, South Africa
11. Makerere University, Uganda
12. University of Ghana, Ghana
13. Tanta University, Egypt
14. University of Witwatersrand, South Africa
15. Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia
16. University of Pretoria, South Africa
17. Alexandria University, Egypt
18. University of Johannesburg, South Africa
19. University of Sfax, Tunisia
20. Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria
21. University of Nairobi, Kenya
22. Rhodes University, South Africa
23. University of Nigeria, Nigeria
24. University of Botswana, Botswana
25. Mansoura University, Egypt
26. University of Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe
27. Tunis University, Tunisia
28. Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana
29. Ahmadu Bello University, Nigeria
30. University of Zambia, Zambia

In Conclusion, pursuing a degree in social science involves acquiring the right education and skills. This career path deals basically with humans. So, you need to acquire the essential skills you need to function effectively in this career path. Additionally, you should pay attention to the area of interest you wish you pursue. You should get the right education and work towards meeting the career’s criteria.

Good luck!

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