Social Science

Program Overview

The Social Sciences major at Radford University prepares students to become middle and high school social studies teachers. The program provides a solid foundation in history, American government, geography, and economics, along with practical experience through student teaching. Graduates are equipped with critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, and have the opportunity to pursue a Master's Degree in Education while completing their undergraduate studies.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Program Name: Social Sciences
• Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science
• Major Overview: The Social Sciences major prepares students to become professional educators in middle and high school social studies (Grades 6-12).
Students will take courses in history, American government, geography, and economics, and then gain practical experience in the classroom as a student teacher.
• Program Objectives: The objectives of the Social Sciences major are to:
• Prepare students to teach social studies in middle and high schools.
• Provide students with a solid foundation in the social sciences.
• Develop students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Prepare students for the Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment and the PRAXIS II for social studies.

Outline:

• Course Schedule: The Social Sciences major requires 45 credits in the major and 30 credits in the teacher education program.
The last year of study includes field experience in area schools and student teaching.
• Module Descriptions: The Social Sciences major includes courses in the following areas:
• History
• American government
• Geography
• Economics
• Education
• Course Format: Courses are taught in a traditional lecture format.

Assessment:

• Assessment Methods: Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including:
• Exams
• Quizzes
• Class participation
• Papers
• Presentations
• Assessment Criteria: Students are assessed on their knowledge of the course material, their critical thinking skills, and their ability to communicate their ideas effectively.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The Social Sciences major uses a variety of teaching methods, including:
• Lectures
• Discussions
• Class activities
• Field trips
• Student presentations
• Faculty: The Social Sciences major is taught by a highly qualified faculty with expertise in the social sciences and education.
• Unique Approaches: The Social Sciences major offers a unique pathway to a Master's Degree in Education for students who want to complete that next step while they are gaining teacher licensure.
Students can take up to nine credits of graduate-level credit while an undergraduate that they can apply towards their master's program.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: Graduates of the Social Sciences major can pursue careers as:
• Middle school social studies teachers
• High school social studies teachers
• Education administrators
• Policy analysts
• Researchers
• Job Outlook: According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, high school teachers earn a median annual salary of $62,000.
Starting wages may be lower, but teachers who obtain a master's degree increase their wages over time.
• Opportunities for Social Science Students at Radford: Radford University offers a variety of opportunities for Social Science students, including:
• The School House Living-Learning Community, which provides housing and support for students interested in pursuing careers as teachers.
• The Social Sciences Club, which offers social events and networking opportunities for students.
• The Radford University chapter of the National Council for the Social Studies, which provides professional development opportunities for students.