Understanding
the forces that
shape society.

That's the Wheaton Edge.

Social Sciences at Wheaton

The social sciences, from economics to anthropology, explore the central question of what drives the behavior of individuals and societies—knowledge that can be used to change behaviors, shape policy and untangle financial markets.

These disciplines hone your writing, critical thinking and analytical skills, preparing you for success in a wide range of fields.

At Wheaton, you have the support and flexibility to explore the subjects and areas that interest you most, whether that means diving deep on ancient archaeology or combining your interest in economics with psychology to understand what makes customers tick. And since our faculty are both teachers and scholars, you'll receive unparalleled opportunities to work alongside leading researchers on campus and in the field.

Ready to study abroad, take on a challenging internship or contribute to an original research paper? With guaranteed access to funding for outside-the-classroom learning, you can explore your calling around the globe.

A Wheaton education prepares students to make a difference in their communities and the world. Where will it take you?

Our Majors and Minors

Can't choose exactly where to focus your academic energy? More than 20% of Wheaton students double-major and many design their own unique courses of study. Social sciences programs include:

  • African, African American, Diaspora Studies

    The African, African American, diaspora studies major and minor explore the experiences and creative and intellectual contributions of Africans and people of African descent. They offer courses from across disciplines—art, music and literature; anthropology, psychology and sociology; economics and political science; and history—giving you the skills you need for a wide range of careers. Learn More

  • Anthropology

    Wheaton's anthropology major and minor look at the entire human experience: our biology, the way we think, how we evolved, what we eat, where we live and what we're capable of achieving. You'll receive excellent preparation for research fellowships, graduate study and work in a variety of fields. Learn More

  • Criminal Justice

    Wheaton's criminal justice major equips you with the knowledge, perspectives and experiences to tackle the most challenging questions in the fields of law, criminal justice and restorative justice. Combining classroom learning with experience in research and in the field, this program prepares you for a wide range of impactful careers. Learn More

  • Digital Media and Communications

    Designed for students who are passionate about media, Wheaton’s digital media and communications major equips you with an in-depth understanding of our dynamic universe of modern media. Whether your interest is primarily in social media or streaming content, journalism or advertising, or some other aspect of media and communications, you will take courses from a range of disciplinary perspectives and acquire knowledge, skills and competencies crucial for success in the field. Learn More

  • Education

    Wheaton's education major and minor prepare you to be a classroom teacher while providing grounding knowledge of contemporary issues, like social justice, race, class and ethnicity. As an education major, you will gain licensure to teach in Massachusetts at the early childhood, elementary or secondary level, or pursue a career as a paraeducator, course designer, school psychologist, educational technologist, administrator or researcher. Learn More

  • International Relations

    As an international relations major, you will develop competency in a modern language and engage in real-world learning through internships, service work or study abroad. These rich experiences coupled with coursework in political science, economics, history and anthropology lead to exciting career opportunities in diplomacy, foreign service, advocacy and multinational business. Learn More

  • Legal Studies

    Wheaton's legal studies minor explores the law from a human perspective, digging into the U.S. Constitution, civil rights and philosophy of law. This minor is excellent preparation if you are interested in law school. Learn More

  • Peace and Social Justice

    Wheaton's peace and social justice studies minor draws on courses from several departments to explore the theories and practices that inform some of our most pressing social justice challenges—racial and gender equality, freedom of gender expression, economic disparity, accessibility rights and environmental conservation—preparing you for a career with social impact. Learn More

  • Political Science

    Political science majors and minors at Wheaton develop the ability to reason, argue, and write effectively while exploring the forces that shape local, national and international affairs. Extensive opportunities to study abroad and participate in community engagement projects, internships and field trips prepare you for life in public service. Learn More

  • Psychology

    The psychology major and minor explore developmental psychology, cognition, neuroscience and much more. A psychology major or minor develops the skills you need for careers in human services, clinical psychology or research, as well as a wide range of fields including marketing, sales and market research. Learn More

  • Public Health

    Wheaton's public health major and minor explore how issues like chronic disease, addiction and pollution impact local populations and global health. With concentrations in anthropology, sociology and psychology, the major prepares you for careers in policy, regulation, communication, research and health promotion. Learn More

  • Queer and Trans Studies

    The Queer and Trans Studies Minor delves into issues related to sex, sexuality, and gender, along with their intersections with race, borders, immigration, age, ability and geography. It empowers students from all majors to apply queer and trans perspectives across disciplines, promoting inclusivity and equity. Learn More

  • Sociology

    As a major or minor in sociology, you will delve into how humans interact on individual, group and societal levels. After graduation, Wheaton sociology majors often pursue advanced degrees in the social sciences or go onto careers in health and human services, marketing, law enforcement, public policy or urban planning. Learn More

  • Teaching Multilingual Learners

    The Teaching Multilingual Learners (MLs) Minor, formerly known as ESL, prepares students to teach English to non-native speakers. It provides a strong foundation for students who are interested in working with ML learners in U.S. schools (Pre-K through high school) or in overseas programs and non-profit organizations. Learn More

  • Women's and Gender Studies

    Wheaton's major and minor in women's and gender studies explore the intersections of gender, race, class and sexuality—in the present day and throughout history. Interdisciplinary classes touch on history, biology, sociology, psychology, art, modern languages and more. You can use class projects, research and internships to advocate, educate, fundraise and volunteer in preparation for nearly any career. Learn More

Unmatched Opportunities

Wheaton students enjoy a highly personalized education and abundant opportunities to engage with and shape the campus community.
  • $1.2 million in internship funding
  • 96% of students live on campus
  • 100+ student clubs and organizations
  • 11:1 student/faculty ratio
  • 95% of students receive financial aid
  • 97% success rate for new graduates

The Wheaton Experience

As a student at Wheaton, you'll enjoy the full breadth and depth of the New England liberal arts college experience while preparing for a fulfilling career. Pairing a close-knit residential campus with proximity to Boston's wide array of cultural offerings, Wheaton offers the best of both worlds.

Whether you're interested in pursuing athletics, engaging in student government or taking part in local community service, you'll find plenty of options for getting involved. 

Take the next step