Learn about how alumnus Ethan Kinstler combined his studies in theater and psychology at CWRU to conduct research on cognitive behavioral therapy and theatrical improvisation at reducing social anxiety in children.
Social Sciences
87%
of social science students conduct research or pursue a creative endeavor
63%
of social science students study abroad
Up to $4K
in funding available to support research and creative projects
#1
fastest-growing research university in the Association of American Universities
3 in 4
social science classes have fewer than 20 students
$5K
average amount awarded for experiential learning fellowships
Social Sciences Degrees at Case Western Reserve University
Case Western Reserve University offers a broad range of social science degree programs designed to develop the analytical, communication and problem-solving skills that today's employers and graduate programs value most. Most disciplines are available as both a major and a minor, with additional minor-only options in areas such as public health, social justice and social work. Together, these programs reflect CWRU's commitment to a well-rounded, interdisciplinary education rooted in real-world impact.
Offered as a Major or a Minor
- Anthropology
- Cognitive Science
- Communication Sciences
- Economics
- Environmental Studies
- Gerontological Studies
- International Studies
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Religious Studies
- Sociology
- Teacher Education
- Women's and Gender Studies
Minor Only
- Childhood Studies
- Communication for Health Professionals
- Environmental Nutrition
- Public Health
- Public Policy
- Social Justice
- Social Work
Top Employers and Grad Schools for CWRU Graduates
Social science graduates from CWRU go on to careers at leading organizations in consulting, healthcare, public service, finance and beyond—and to graduate programs at some of the most prestigious universities in the country.
Whether launching a career or continuing their education, CWRU social science alumni are making an impact across every sector: 94% of recent social science grads are employed or attending graduate/professional school within six months.
Recent Job Placements
- Accenture
- City Year
- Cleveland Clinic
- Deloitte
- Epic
- EY
- Global Service Corps
- Johns Hopkins Hospital
- KeyBank
- National Institutes of Health
- Sherwin-Williams
- Teach for America
- U.S. Department of Agriculture
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Recent Grad School Acceptances
- Carnegie Mellon University
- Case Western Reserve University
- Columbia University
- George Washington University
- Georgetown University
- Johns Hopkins University
- New York University
- The Ohio State University
- Stanford University
- University of Pennsylvania
- University of Texas
- Washington University in St. Louis
Why Study Social Sciences at CWRU?
Our Centers and Institutes
Social Sciences Clubs and Organizations
Find your community at CWRU through organizations and clubs that empower you to explore your interests, develop leadership skills and make an impact. Whether you’re passionate about social justice or sustainability, global affairs or local civic engagement, you’ll find a group that’s right for you.
A few to check out:
- Anthropology Student Association
- Cleveland Public Schools Connection (after-school program for inner-city middle school students)
- Food Recovery Network (fights food waste)
- Global Ethical Leaders Society
- Habitat for Humanity
- Kids Against Hunger Cleveland (stocks soup kitchens and food pantries)
- Model United Nations
- Student Sustainability Council
- TEDx at CWRU
- The Observer (campus newspaper)
- Undergraduate Diversity Collaborative (support for campus-wide diversity/inclusion organizations)
- Undergraduate Mock Trial
View dozens of additional clubs available to students like you.
Events for Social Sciences Students
Think Forum
- This free lecture series brings preeminent writers, scholars and experts from around the world to the university's Maltz Performing Arts Center. Recent speakers include Pulitzer Prize winners Hua Hsu and Elizabeth Kolbert, and former U.S. Poet Laureate Billy Collins.
Camp Kesem Fundraisers
- This free, weeklong camp is run by CWRU students for children whose parents have cancer. It's a place for kids to be kids, and student-run fundraisers make it happen!
- Annual Brinner: It's breakfast and dinner—buy waffles.
- Make the Magic Gala: Enjoy a snazzy dinner and help with the silent and live auctions.
Political Science Election Night Watch Parties
- Join fellow students for free food and beverages and fresh faculty commentary. Election night at its best!
Think Forum
- This free lecture series brings preeminent writers, scholars and experts from around the world to the university's Maltz Performing Arts Center. Recent speakers include Pulitzer Prize winners Hua Hsu and Elizabeth Kolbert, and former U.S. Poet Laureate Billy Collins.
Camp Kesem Fundraisers
- This free, weeklong camp is run by CWRU students for children whose parents have cancer. It's a place for kids to be kids, and student-run fundraisers make it happen!
- Annual Brinner: It's breakfast and dinner—buy waffles.
- Make the Magic Gala: Enjoy a snazzy dinner and help with the silent and live auctions.
Political Science Election Night Watch Parties
- Join fellow students for free food and beverages and fresh faculty commentary. Election night at its best!
