Description
In the field of academia, Social Sciences is an umbrella term to define all disciplines focused on the study and understanding of human history, behaviour, and their relationship with one another. Like with most branches of Science, Social Sciences are divided into countless categories and subcategories. The most common and well known are Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, Archaeology, and History.
Using different methods and tools designed to analyze data, professionals specialized in Social Sciences are able to measure, study, understand, explain, and even predict social phenomena and behaviours. Depending on their branch and specialty, they might focus their work and studies towards individuals, collectives, or past societies and events.
Tasks Overview
Social Sciences professionals are usually responsible for the following:
All professionals working in the Social Sciences field usually share the same characteristics, which include, but are not limited to:
- Possessing outstanding understanding of scientific studies and methodologies.
- Having excellent research and project development skills.
- Displaying excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Enjoying strong computer and numerical skills.
- Having an analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking mind.
As it so happens in most scientific fields, Social Sciences professionals and employers tend to put a lot of emphasis on academic achievements and conducted research. Most, if not all, positions in this field require applicants to possess at least a bachelor’s degree in any of the branches of Social Sciences in order to be eligible for an entry-level job. Further academic studies are strongly encouraged and will allow professionals to advance in their career and apply for higher ranking jobs, as well as directing a group of researchers.
Employers usually look for pre-existing experience prior to hiring new candidates. This experience can be obtained through years of study by volunteering in several institutions such as community centres, city halls, universities, and health centres. Many employers offer applicants the possibility to validate conducted research or academic achievements for years of experience. In this sense, a candidate with a master’s degree or a doctorate won’t be required to have as much field experience as someone with just a bachelor’s degree, due to the extensive studies and researches conducted.