Social Science Transfer Program
Associate in Arts
Program Description
Do you want to understand how people think, how societies change, and how the world works? The Associate in Arts in Social Science Transfer (SSTR) program is designed to help you explore those big questions — while preparing you to continue your studies at a four-year university.
The Social Science Transfer Degree program has a threefold mission:
- to advance and disseminate knowledge concerning the nature, scope, and processes of the social sciences
- to provide students with a rigorous foundation in the fundamental concepts, theories, and methodological skills necessary for advanced study in the social sciences
- to cultivate the competencies and intellectual preparation required for successful transfer to four-year institutions and for entry into professional careers in related fields
To fulfill its mission, the Social Science program has five outcome goals.
Students graduating with an A.A. degree in Social Science will:
1. Understand and compare the key sociological theories, major concepts and mechanisms,
which explain human thought and social behavior.
2. Engage in critical thinking to review empirical studies of the social sciences
and apply the scientific method as a primary basis for engaging in critical thinking.
3. Evaluate ethical standards in social science theory and practice.
4. Create oral and written communications using the technical language of the social
sciences.
5. Describe the impact of society and culture on human diversity from a social science
perspective.
Instead of limiting yourself to just one subject, you’ll get to explore multiple disciplines, including:
- Sociology – how societies and communities function
- Psychology – the science of the mind and behavior
- Economics – choices, resources, and decision-making
- Anthropology – culture, history, and human origins
- Geography – people, environments, and global connections
- Religion – exploring worldviews and traditions
With electives in fields like Criminal Justice, Education, or Human Services, you can connect classroom learning to real-world opportunities and career paths.
What makes this program stand out?
- Transfer-ready: Seamlessly continue into a bachelor’s program in the social sciences.
- Flexibility: Sample different areas to discover your passion.
- Skills that matter: Research, critical thinking, and strong communication.
- Future pathways: Teaching, law, counseling, social work, public policy, community service, and beyond.
The SSTR degree gives you more than credits — it gives you the chance to understand people and society, think critically about the world, and prepare for a career that makes an impact.
Common careers for Social Science graduates include:
- Teacher or Professor
- Human Resource Specialist
- Case Manager
- Industrial Sociologist
- Social Worker
- Community Relations Officer
- Market Research Analyst
- Correctional
- Criminologist
- Probation and Parole Officer
- Demographer
- Psychiatric Assistant
- Forensic Treatment Specialist
- Researchers
- Government agencies at all levels
- Residential Care Staff
- Health Educator
- Statistician
- Economist
- Consultant (business or government)
- Victims’ Advocate
NOTE: This program may qualify for MassTransfer. Please visit the MassTransfer website to confirm if the program you are interested at Massasoit and a participating state university qualifies.
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