B.A. in Social Studies

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.

Grand Valley State University (GVSU) offers various scholarships to help international students with their educational expenses. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership, and other criteria. 

International Merit Scholarship: GVSU offers merit-based scholarships to international students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. The award amounts may vary, but they are typically based on a student's academic achievements. The scholarships are competitive and awarded to high-achieving students.

Study Abroad Scholarships: GVSU encourages international students to participate in study abroad programs. The university provides scholarships to students who wish to study abroad and gain valuable international experience.

Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments and programs within the university offer scholarships for students pursuing specific majors. These scholarships are often based on academic performance and potential in the chosen field of study.

Cultural and Identity-Based Scholarships: GVSU promotes diversity and inclusivity. As a result, there are scholarships available for students who contribute to the diversity of the university community. These scholarships recognize students from underrepresented backgrounds.

Foundation Scholarships: GVSU Foundation Scholarships are made possible through the generosity of donors. These scholarships cover a wide range of academic disciplines and may be available to both undergraduate and graduate international students.

Community College Transfer Scholarships: International students transferring from U.S. community colleges to GVSU may be eligible for transfer scholarships, which can help with the cost of completing their bachelor's degrees.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Social Studies program from Grand Valley State University (GVSU) have a diverse range of career options available to them. The program’s interdisciplinary approach equips students with a broad understanding of social sciences, making them well-prepared for various roles in education, public service, research, and more. 

Social Studies Teacher: One of the primary career options for graduates is to become social studies teachers. They can teach history, geography, political science, and economics at middle and high school levels. With the skills and knowledge gained from the program, graduates are prepared to create engaging lesson plans and foster critical thinking in students.

Policy Analyst: Graduates can work as policy analysts, evaluating and developing policies related to social, economic, and political issues. They analyze data, conduct research, and provide recommendations to government agencies, think tanks, or non-profit organizations to influence public policy and decision-making.

Public Administrator: A career in public administration is another option, where graduates can manage and implement public programs and services. They work in government agencies or non-profit organizations, overseeing projects, managing budgets, and ensuring effective service delivery.

Community Organizer: Graduates can pursue roles as community organizers, working to address social issues and promote community engagement. They coordinate programs, lead advocacy efforts, and collaborate with local organizations to drive social change and support community needs.

Researcher: With a strong foundation in research methods, graduates can work as researchers in academic institutions, research firms, or think tanks. They conduct studies on social, political, and economic issues, contributing to the development of new knowledge and informed policy decisions.

Public Relations Specialist: Graduates can enter the field of public relations, where they manage the public image of organizations or individuals. They create communication strategies, handle media relations, and develop promotional materials to shape positive perceptions and enhance reputations.

Non-Profit Manager: A career in non-profit management is another viable option, where graduates oversee operations, programs, and fundraising efforts for non-profit organizations. They work to address social issues, support community initiatives, and ensure the effective use of resources.

Museum or Cultural Institution Professional: Graduates can work in museums, historical societies, or cultural institutions, where they contribute to the preservation and interpretation of historical and cultural artifacts. Roles may include curatorial work, educational programming, or public outreach.

Further Education: The B.A. in Social Studies also provides a strong foundation for pursuing advanced degrees in fields such as law, public administration, or international relations. Graduates may continue their education to qualify for specialized roles or leadership positions in their chosen fields.