NOTE: While this page offers career paths that align with a concentration, SUA’s liberal arts degree opens doors to countless professional possibilities. SUA graduates pursue meaningful careers across diverse fields, regardless of their concentration.
Welcome to the Social & Behavioral Sciences Community!
The Social & Behavioral Sciences (SBS) concentration embraces an interdisciplinary approach to examining the human condition, incorporating perspectives from anthropology, economics, political science, psychology, and sociology. SBS courses provide students with theoretical and methodological tools to examine and address social issues and concerns from multiple comparative perspectives.
CAREER PATHWAYS in SOCIAL AND BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES
Social and Behavioral Sciences (SBS) studies provide a robust foundation for a meaningful life and a wealth of career opportunities. Soka University alumni in this field thrive across various industries. Graduates have found fulfilling careers in social research, public policy, law, mental health, nonprofit management, and community development, contributing to organizations that address pressing societal challenges. Many alumni have also pursued advanced degrees, becoming experts in areas such as social work, public health, economics, and community organizing.
The following list includes sample job titles that Social and Behavioral Sciences graduates might explore, offering a starting point among a range of career options. Each role reflects the analytical, communication, and cultural awareness skills developed through the interdisciplinary approach of a liberal arts degree with an SBS concentration—powerfully preparing graduates for success across an exceptionally wide range of fields and offering the flexibility to pursue nearly any career that values adaptable, human-centered perspectives.
- Social Researcher – Conducting studies to understand social behaviors, trends, and issues using qualitative and quantitative research methods.
- Policy Analyst – Analyzing and developing policies on various topics, providing recommendations based on research findings.
- Market Research Analyst – Gathering and analyzing data on consumer behaviors and preferences to help businesses develop effective marketing strategies.
- Human Resources Specialist – Managing recruitment, employee relations, and training programs within organizations to ensure compliance with labor laws.
- Community Development Worker – Working on initiatives to improve community welfare and address social issues through advocacy and project management.
- Public Health Educator – Designing and implementing health education programs to promote community awareness and engagement in health issues.
- Nonprofit Program Manager – Overseeing and coordinating social impact programs within nonprofit organizations to achieve mission objectives.
- Advocacy Coordinator – Organizing campaigns to promote social, political, or environmental causes, engaging stakeholders and mobilizing community support.
- Cultural Anthropologist – Studying cultural systems and practices through field research, contributing to the understanding of diverse societies.
- Mental Health Counselor – Providing support and guidance to individuals facing mental health challenges, helping them develop coping strategies.
- Economic Development Specialist – Creating and implementing policies to stimulate local economic growth and improve community quality of life.
- Financial Analyst – Analyzing financial data to inform budgeting and investment decisions, helping organizations achieve financial stability.
- Public Relations Specialist – Managing communication and relationships between organizations and the public, enhancing the organization’s image.
- Social Worker – Supporting and advocating for individuals and families in need, connecting them with resources and services.
- Community Health Worker – Acting as a liaison between healthcare providers and the community, promoting health education and access to services.
- NGO Project Coordinator – Supporting and coordinating projects within NGOs, focusing on humanitarian efforts and social change initiatives.
- Survey Researcher – Designing and conducting surveys to collect data on public opinions, behaviors, and trends for various sectors.
- Grant Writer – Researching and writing proposals to secure funding for nonprofit and community projects, articulating their significance.
- Sociologist – Studying social behavior and institutions, analyzing how societal factors influence individual and group dynamics.
- Program Evaluator – Assessing the effectiveness of social programs to inform improvements and policy changes.
You can explore more about specific pathways within SBS at Soka below:
- Anthropology
- Economics
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Methods of Social and Behavioral Sciences
- Topics in Social and Behavioral Sciences