Social Sciences Degree at Carroll Spotlight

Ever wonder what makes people act the way they do? Or how communities handle challenges like inequality, justice reform, or mental health? Or what you can do to make a difference?

These are the kinds of questions at the heart of the Social Science majors at Carroll Community College, where students are finding answers that lead to real impact in their communities and careers.

Exploring What Matters Most to You

At Carroll, you can dive into such rewarding areas of study as Criminal Justice, Psychology, Social Work, Sociology/Anthropology, Law Enforcement, and Corrections. These programs open doors to understanding diversity, human relationships, and today’s most pressing societal challenges.

For some students, the draw of the Social Sciences pathway is deeply personal. “I am deeply committed to making a difference in the lives of others, particularly those who are vulnerable or marginalized,” said Carroll Social Work major Priscilla Davis. “My passion for social work stems from a strong desire to advocate for positive change and to be a voice for those who may not have one.”

Students like Priscilla have discovered that Social Sciences aren’t just about learning theory—they’re about turning compassion and curiosity into careers that matter.

Skills That Employers Value

Beyond exploring ideas and understanding society, Carroll students gain the skills employers are looking for today. Across social services, government, education, nonprofits, and law enforcement, employers are looking for graduates who can think critically, communicate with empathy, and problem-solve in complex situations.

Carroll’s programs are designed to build exactly these in-demand skills, along with:

• Data literacy, cultural competency, and ethical reasoning
• Hands-on experiences like internships and applied projects
• Transfer-friendly, money-saving pathways to 4-year universities

For Stephen Grayson, a Criminal Justice student at Carroll, the desire to develop skills and seek opportunities like these stemmed from how he was raised.

“I chose to go into the field of law enforcement because I grew up a military brat, so service to my country and the people around me has always been engrained in myself,” Stephen said. “I also grew up in the foster care system and saw firsthand how rough it could be for kids and families.” For this reason, he has vowed to being “a lighthouse for those who feel lost and feel like giving up on their goals.”

Lissa Leisher, a Psychology student at Carroll who transferred to UMBC to continue her studies in the field, was motivated to pursue the Social Sciences by a personal mission to help others.

“My interest in the field of Social Sciences comes from the desire to improve upon the increasing number of mental health challenges people within my community and beyond are facing,” Lissa explained. She has taken a particular interest in youth mental care, an area that requires significant empathy and compassion—concepts that Carroll’s Social Science programs emphasize through research and applied learning.

The Social Sciences are more than a major for individuals like Stephen and Lissa—they’re a way to give back to those in need.

Outcomes & Opportunities

Those with a Social Sciences education can pursue many fulfilling, wide-ranging roles, from social work and policy advocacy to law enforcement, human resources, and education.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, social worker jobs in particular are projected to increase 6% between 2024 and 2034, with about 74,000 openings each year. Community and social service occupations overall are growing much faster than average.

Carroll’s Social Science program students and graduates have launched careers or gained field experience with respected organizations across the region, including:

• Penn Mar Human Services
• Sheppard Pratt
• Bello Machre
• Springboard Community Services
• Umbrella Wellness Center
• Carroll County Circuit Court

For Marissa Hall, the Criminal Justice program at Carroll is a stepping stone toward a future in federal law enforcement.

“My ultimate goal is to join the FBI as a criminal behavioral analyst, a career path that follows my passion for law enforcement and my desire to have a positive effect on society,” she shared. “After completing my Associate’s degree [at Carroll], I plan to gain experience by joining the reserves in the Army. This experience combined with the knowledge gained from my studies will help prepare me for my future career.”

Making an Impact

From addressing mental health crises to driving justice reform, the need for trained professionals in the Social Sciences has never been greater. Carroll’s programs prepare students to do more than understand these issues. They empower students to actively participate in solving them—locally, nationally, and globally.

Carroll’s Social Sciences faculty bring advanced degrees and diverse experiences from leading universities across the country, ensuring students learn from experts who combine scholarship with real-world insight. “I am proud of the credentials and experiences the faculty bring to their classes and to the College,” said Susan Sies, Division Chair of Social Sciences, Business, and Education at Carroll.

Whether you plan to transfer to a four-year school or jump directly into a role serving your community, Carroll equips you with the tools, knowledge, and practical experience to make it happen.

If you care about people, about meaningful work, and about making a difference, Carroll’s Social Sciences programs can help you turn that passion into purpose and prepare you to make an impact wherever your career takes you.