Community-Oriented Jobs for Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences Graduates
Table of Contents
- Community and Social Services Roles
- Public Policy and Government Positions
- Nonprofit and Advocacy Careers
- Education and Community Development
- Why a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences Helps You Stand Out
- Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences FAQ
- What qualities make someone a strong fit for a social sciences degree?
- How does a social sciences degree help me develop skills that employers value?
- What types of organizations hire social sciences graduates?
- How does a social sciences program prepare me to engage with diverse communities?
- How can a social sciences degree support long-term career growth?
- Take the Next Step Toward a Purpose-Driven Career
Communities thrive when they’re supported by professionals who understand the forces shaping society — how people interact, what drives change, and what creates opportunity. That’s why careers rooted in community impact continue to attract people who want their work to make a difference.
If you’re drawn to solving real-world problems, working with diverse groups, or helping shape public programs and policies, you’ll find no shortage of opportunities across sectors like social services, education, government, and advocacy.
A Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences, like the one offered at the Tulane School of Professional Advancement (SoPA), gives you a foundation to pursue these kinds of roles with confidence.
Let’s explore community-oriented career paths where this degree can help you contribute meaningfully to the world around you.
Community and Social Services Roles
Social services coordinator
Social services coordinators connect individuals and families with vital community resources, such as housing assistance, healthcare, or educational support. They work in nonprofit organizations, healthcare systems, and local government agencies, helping clients navigate systems and advocate for their needs.
Community outreach specialist
Outreach specialists build relationships across neighborhoods and populations to raise awareness of programs and services. This work often supports public health, education, or civic engagement initiatives. Success in this role requires strong interpersonal skills, cultural understanding, and a deep commitment to listening to community voices.
Youth program manager
Youth program managers create and oversee activities that foster learning, leadership, and personal growth for young people. Whether running after-school programs, summer camps, or mentoring initiatives, they rely on a strong understanding of developmental and social factors that influence youth outcomes.
Public Policy and Government Positions
Public policy analyst
Policy analysts study data, legislation, and social trends to understand how public policies affect communities. They work for government agencies, think tanks, and advocacy groups, helping craft solutions that promote social equity and improve quality of life.
City planner
City planners work at the intersection of public space, infrastructure, and community well-being. They collaborate with residents, officials, and developers to design neighborhoods that foster inclusivity, sustainability, and economic opportunity. Social sciences graduates bring valuable insights into community needs and dynamics to this field.
Nonprofit and Advocacy Careers
Advocacy coordinator
Advocacy coordinators lead efforts to raise awareness and drive action on causes such as environmental justice, civil rights, and economic empowerment. They engage stakeholders, build coalitions, and develop strategies to influence public opinion and policy.
Program manager (nonprofit sector)
Program managers oversee the design, implementation, and evaluation of nonprofit programs. They manage teams, coordinate resources, and ensure that initiatives align with organizational goals and community needs. A broad understanding of human behavior and social systems is key to success.
Education and Community Development
Adult education instructor
Adult education instructors teach literacy, language, workforce skills, or civic education, often working with underserved populations. Beyond teaching content, they foster inclusive learning environments and empower students to achieve personal and professional goals.
Community development specialist
Community development specialists collaborate with local organizations, government agencies, and residents to improve economic and social conditions in neighborhoods. Their work may involve housing projects, workforce development, or public safety initiatives, requiring both strategic thinking and grassroots engagement.
Why a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences Helps You Stand Out
Professionals in community-oriented roles need more than good intentions. They need the ability to analyze complex issues, communicate effectively across diverse audiences, and drive sustainable solutions.
The Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences from Tulane SoPA supports these capabilities through an interdisciplinary approach. Courses explore the cultural, political, and economic forces shaping society and equip students with practical skills for today’s workforce.
Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences FAQ
What qualities make someone a strong fit for a social sciences degree?
Curiosity about how societies function, a desire to understand human behavior, and a commitment to improving community outcomes all make this degree a strong fit. Students who are motivated to engage with diverse perspectives and tackle social challenges through research, analysis, and collaboration thrive in this program.
How does a social sciences degree help me develop skills that employers value?
A social sciences degree fosters intellectual flexibility, giving you the ability to approach challenges from multiple angles and understand diverse perspectives. Through coursework and applied learning, you’ll refine your ability to synthesize information, communicate clearly, and adapt to changing organizational and community needs, all qualities that employers look for across both public-facing and internal leadership roles.
What types of organizations hire social sciences graduates?
Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences work in a wide range of organizations, including local and state governments, nonprofits, advocacy groups, educational institutions, healthcare systems, and private companies with community engagement programs. The degree prepares you for roles in both mission-driven organizations and sectors that intersect with public needs.
How does a social sciences program prepare me to engage with diverse communities?
Social sciences courses emphasize cultural awareness, empathy, and an understanding of how historical and systemic factors shape communities today. You’ll graduate with a deeper ability to engage with people across varied backgrounds and contribute thoughtfully to programs, policies, and services that reflect and respect the needs of those you serve.
How can a social sciences degree support long-term career growth?
Because the program builds both practical skills and broad cultural insight, it positions graduates for advancement into leadership, policy-making, and organizational strategy roles. The degree also serves as a strong foundation for graduate study in fields like law, public administration, education, or social work, giving you flexibility to shape your career over time.
Take the Next Step Toward a Purpose-Driven Career
The Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences at Tulane SoPA offers more than a degree. It gives you the perspective, knowledge, and tools to drive positive change in the communities you care about.
Whether your path leads to advocacy, education, public service, or nonprofit leadership, this program prepares you to make a lasting difference.
Request info and start building a future where your work helps shape a stronger, more inclusive society.
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