Bachelor of Social Science

Social science applies the 'science' of research and analysis to the world’s complex 'social' problems such as sustainability, equity, and diversity, to create positive change.

You’ll study some of society’s most intriguing issues along with the techniques to analyse them and devise break-through solutions. You’ll be equipped to combine your hard knowledge of world issues with advanced data analysis techniques. You’ll develop the knowledge to select the appropriate tools and methodologies for the issues you’re working on, along with the communication skills to collate and present your findings to decision-makers, to enable evidence-based solutions that can positively transform society.

Climate change is an example of a contemporary challenge that can’t be solved by 'pure' science alone. Solutions will come from people who can not only interpret the data but also understand the need for social impact studies, policy development, and effective public communication. Social scientists work in these intersecting spaces, which is why they are in high-demand across government departments, creative industries, political parties, the business sector, in think tanks, and non-government organizations (NGOs).

You don’t need prior knowledge of statistical research methods as you’ll study core courses that will develop your skills in analyzing social policy and data, along with your two majors. Each of the majors represents a different perspective on the challenges of the future and allow you to develop areas of expertise that can open doors to a broad range of careers. There are also opportunities to undertake an internship in an area of interest and join a global study tour.

Majors

You can choose two of the following majors:

• Economics
• Environmental Sustainability
• Global Security Threats
• Media, Communication and Social Change
• Politics in Asia
• Social Justice

Economics: If you want expert insight into why the Australian dollar fluctuates or what caused the Global Financial Crisis, this major is the ideal choice. You’ll gain an understanding of the big financial issues facing societies and learn how governments make decisions about what to spend on complex issues such as the environment, healthcare, infrastructure, and resources. You’ll also learn how markets work, and how businesses make decisions about pricing, staffing, and responding to competition.

Environmental Sustainability: Environmental sustainability is the world’s biggest issue. This major is not about the ‘hard science’ of the environment but instead explores the key social and policy issues behind the need for sustainable management of our planet’s finite resources. In this major, you’ll study environmental politics, climate change policy, the economics of natural resources, and environmental ethics and culture.

Global Security Threats: If you’re interested in developing future-focused solutions to some of the world’s most complex challenges, this major is for you. You’ll be exposed to a stimulating array of international issues, including conflict and forced displacement, terrorism and political violence, Islam-West relations, cybercrime, energy security, and the environment. You'll gain a critical understanding of underlying causes, underpinned by a foundational course in World History.

Media, Communication and Social Change: In the information age, the ways we communicate - and are communicated to - are diverse and ever changing. The ability to understand and manipulate communications is crucial to creating change. Producing, interpreting and analysing communications are not only desirable skills, but fascinating areas of study. This major covers such topics as, the power of mass and social media, journalism, public relations, discourse analysis, new communication technologies, political spin, and the global spread of English.

Politics in Asia: This major harnesses Griffith’s internationally recognised strengths in politics and Asian studies. You’ll develop a deep understanding of the political, cultural, economic and social dimensions of the Asian region. Topics include the rise of China, global security, the interconnection of business and politics, the role of international organisations, and Australia’s place in the region.

Social Justice: This major is for those who are motivated by the fundamental question, ‘What makes a fair society?’ and are passionate about fighting for a better world. Social justice refers to the idea that all people deserve equal and fair opportunities and treatment. By specialising in this area, you’ll explore contemporary hot topics such as human rights, indigenous history and disadvantage, gender and crime, domestic violence, youth justice, power and politics and the administration of the law.