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Harvard's Social Studies Major?

So I've been exploring different majors and the Social Studies program at Harvard seems really interesting. Has anyone been through it and can share about the curriculum? Also, what career paths do students typically pursue after graduating from this program?

a year ago

The Social Studies major at Harvard is an interdisciplinary program that combines different social sciences like sociology, political science, economics, and history. What's unique about this major is the emphasis on addressing large societal questions by drawing from multiple disciplines, rather than just focusing on one. It's known for being highly flexible, allowing students to focus on particular areas of interest within the broader major.

The curriculum includes core classes for a foundation in social theory, a subfield that matches your interest, and a senior thesis. The 10 course requirement allows you to touch various subfields including political theory, social theory, economics, anthropology, international relations, or theoretical frameworks such as critical race theory or feminist theory, depending on your interest. One of the main highlights is the senior thesis that is a culmination of your academic journey. The seminars you take as part of your chosen thematic or regional focus often have a lot of lively discussions and debates.

As for career paths, graduates of the program have a wide array of options. Many go into roles that align with the multi-disciplinary nature of the course and are involved in law, business, teaching, academia, public service, and NGO work. Some go on to pursue further studies in graduate school, law school, and other professional programs. The skills developed through this program such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication according to the Harvard website, equip the graduates to apply these in a variety of professions. However, it really depends on individual interests and the electives chosen throughout the program.

If you are interested in social sciences but also want to have breadth in your study focus, the Social Studies program at Harvard offers that opportunity along with the flexibility to explore those areas you are most passionate about.

a year ago

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