Interdisciplinary Social Science Degree

Program Overview

The University of West Florida's online Bachelor's in Social Sciences with Community Education Specialization prepares students to work in community-based settings, providing educational programs for children and youth in high-poverty communities. The interdisciplinary program emphasizes non-traditional education, hands-on experience, and high-impact practices, equipping graduates for roles outside traditional K-12 schools.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The fully online bachelor’s degree program with interdisciplinary social sciences community education specialization from the University of West Florida provides a broad view of issues related to educating children and youth in high-poverty communities.

Objectives:

• Prepare students to work in a variety of community-based settings or agencies that provide educational programming for children and youth.
• Develop skills in planning and delivering flexible educational programs in informal and community-based educational settings.

Description:

• Interdisciplinary approach that combines social sciences, education, and community engagement.
• Emphasizes non-traditional education and prepares students for educational roles outside traditional K–12 schools.
• Provides hands-on experience through service learning and field instruction.
• Incorporates high-impact practices, including collaboration, research, and experiential learning.

Outline:

Program Content:

• Child and youth development
• Social and economic issues in high-poverty communities
• Educational theory and practice
• Curriculum and program development
• Assessment and evaluation

Structure:

• 120 credit hours
• General Education (60 credit hours)
• Major Courses (45 credit hours)
• Advisor-approved electives (15 credit hours)

Course Schedule:

• Online courses offered in 16-week semesters
• Part-time and full-time enrollment options available

Individual Modules:

Major Courses:

• Applied Foundations of Education
• Teaching at Risk Learners
• Learning In Community Education Environments
• Universal Design for Learning in Community Learning Environments
• Integrated Arts and Contemporary Educational Tools
• Capstone Seminar in Community Education
• High Impact Practice Practicum
• High-Impact Practice Seminar
• Methods in Inclusion and Collaboration
• ESOL Principles and Practices
• Elective (3 credit hours)
• Elective (3 credit hours)
• Elective (3 credit hours)
• Elective (3 credit hours)
• Elective (3 credit hours) or contact your advisor for other program options (3 credit hours each)

Assessment:

• Coursework assessments (e.g., exams, quizzes, assignments)
• Participation in discussions and activities
• Service learning project
• Capstone project

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: Online instruction using a variety of platforms and technologies
• Faculty: Experienced educators and professionals in the field of community education
• Unique Approaches:
• Emphasis on high-impact practices to enhance student learning
• Collaboration with community partners to provide real-world experiences
• Use of technology to facilitate online learning and engagement

Careers:

• Community education coordinator
• After-school program director
• Museum educator
• Nonprofit education coordinator
• Youth development specialist
• Social worker
• Counselor