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Social Science Major

Study Social Science at Azusa Pacific University

You’ll graduate equipped to educate others in the social dynamics that define our lives—from history to sociology—opening the door to a variety of careers in secondary education, government service, journalism, law, politics, and more. For those aspiring to teach middle or high school, you’ll build your résumé with firsthand experience working in the classroom under a mentor and become skilled in relevant teaching methods.

4+1 Accelerated Pathway to Single Subject Teaching Credential

  • Enter a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science program with the opportunity to complete APU’s Master of Arts in Education degree plus Single Subject Teaching Credential in just one year after completing the BA degree!
  • Undergraduate students within the majors of English, Social Science, Art, Math, Biology, Chemistry, or Physics who have completed at least 60 units may apply to the 4+1 Pathway.
  • Tailored for those who wish to teach Social Science at the middle or high school levels, this program allows you to be admitted to the MA in Education + Credential program as early as your junior year.
  • By completing 9 units of graduate-level coursework in your senior year, this pathway allows you to complete the master’s degree and early your credential in just 12 months after graduation!
  • Speak with your advisor before you reach 60 units, and 9 units of electives in your plan.

Program at a Glance

The School of Humanities and Sciences offers diverse well-rounded degree programs to prepare critical thinkers to make a difference in the world for Christ.

Upcoming Events

APU One Day

  • Friday, May 9, 2026
  • Saturday, June 13, 2026
  • Saturday, July 11, 2026

Application Deadline

We are rolling admission.

Apply Now

Program Information

  • Program Units: 54

Location

  • Azusa (Main Campus)
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Yellow Ribbon and Military Friendly School

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Gain Hands-on Experience

  • Explore economics, geography, psychology, religions, and more.
  • Develop analytical skills and critical judgment valued in a variety of careers.
  • Evaluate each subject through a lens of biblical principles and ethics.

By the Numbers

$94,560 Average annual wage for social scientists and related workers *Bureau of Labor Statistics.
#1 APU was ranked as the top Christian college in California in The Wall Street Journal’s 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S.
13 :1 Student-to-faculty Ratio

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Hannah Hernandes smiling

Hannah Hernandez ’20, sociology major,  discovered the power of listening to and understanding others’ stories while studying abroad in South Africa. 

Program Details

The social science major primarily prepares students to teach history, political science, geography, economics, sociology, and psychology at the high school or junior high school level. This major provides future teachers with an integrated study of these social sciences, which helps develop analytical skills, comparative perspectives, critical judgment, and a knowledge base about the world around them.

Browse the tabs below—if you have questions, visit the Student Services Center page, and we’ll make sure you get the info you need.

General Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Select an option below:

At Azusa Pacific University, we’re committed to making your bachelor’s degree in psychology affordable. That’s why APU provides a comprehensive range of financial aid options, including federal loans, state grants, fellowships, and scholarships.

For more information, contact the Student Services Center at (626) 815-2020.

Scholarships and Grants

Scholarships and grants are considered gift aid, meaning they do not require repayment. These awards may come from federal, state, institutional, or private sources. Scholarships are often merit-based and awarded for academic achievement, leadership, or other demonstrated talents.

While APU does award scholarships, you can also find external scholarship opportunities through websites such as Finaid and Fastweb. Contact the Student Services Center about scholarships offered through APU departments or local organizations.

Student Employment

Along with gift aid and student loans, you can apply for on-campus student employment opportunities to earn additional income to pay for education-related expenses. As an APU student, you can also find work off campus in the surrounding community.

Military and Veterans Benefits

If you are a veteran, serve in the military, or qualify as a spouse or dependent, you may access financial assistance that helps cover the cost of tuition, housing, and books. As a Yellow Ribbon and Military Friendly School, APU offers the support and flexibility needed to help you complete your bachelor’s degree in psychology.

Net Price Calculator

We’re committed to helping you understand the value of the APU experience early in the college search process. Once you’ve explored the financial aid opportunities available, take the next step by estimating your cost to attend. The Net Price Calculator provides a personalized estimate based on the information you share, so you can start planning today!

Calculate Net Price

To view specific requirements and coursework information, visit the current academic catalog:

Azusa Pacific University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

Career Outlooks and Outcomes

Featured Faculty

Douglas Hume

Douglas Hume

Associate Professor of Political Science and Pre-Law Advisor

Note: This information is current for the 2025-26 academic year, but all stated academic information is subject to change. Refer to the current academic catalog for more information.

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