The social services major at Earlham prepares ethical, culturally sensitive individuals who are prepared to thrive in a variety of careers in counseling, social work, human resources and other fields. Throughout the major, you will gain a deep understanding of how people and social systems affect one another. You will gain policy skills and knowledge and graduate equipped to make meaningful change in the world.
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A degree in social services will prepare you for a variety of potential career paths, including social work, school and career counseling, marriage and family therapy, and human resources.
“I chose social services as my major because I hope to work in Human Resources, or more specifically, as a Title IX coordinator. I know that this major will help me accomplish this goal, while also allowing me to take classes that are both challenging and interesting. I’m very excited to continue my education as a social service major!”
Susan Johnson, ’23
Social services major
“I love helping students build on their passions to make the world a better place, especially by applying what they learn in the classroom to improve people’s lives in the real world.”
Rachael Reavis, Ph.D.
Associate professor of psychology
“I am very excited to pursue our new major of social services because it allows me to experience an interdisciplinary field of study that will best prepare me for my educational and professional career in Speech Pathology.”
Daniela Joseph, ’22
Social services major
“When Earlham came out with the social services major I knew it was just right for me since I have always been interested in individuals and social dynamics and how to make meaningful impacts on both. This major focuses on just that and shows the depth and breadth of knowledge needed to better the world for ourselves and generations to come. I know that with this major as my foundation I will be able to approach future academic goals like getting my masters as well as professional endeavors with more than enough to succeed!”
Micah MacColl Nicholson, ’23
Social services major
Thoughtful learning and practical experience
Hands-on experience
Practical experiences are woven into the social services major, and you’ll complete an internship practicum before graduation.
Experienced faculty
Our faculty come from a range of disciplines, including psychology and sociology/anthropology. We also have a practicing professional partner on staff, so you’ll get a firsthand look at careers in social services.
Our faculty
We bring a diverse set of perspectives from a number of fields to help you understand individuals, groups and social systems.
Frequently asked questions
Social services majors take a variety of courses in social services, psychology and sociology/anthropology, as well as other disciplines, providing you with a breadth of knowledge and a grounding in ethical practices.
The social services major will prepare you for jobs and graduate/professional programs in social services, public health, counseling, human resources and many other professions. You will be equipped to understand societal and organizational structures and work in ethical ways to support the people living and working within these structures.
If you’re considering a career in social work, counseling, public health, human resources or another area that works with people and systems, the social services major could be the right fit for you. Social services majors are passionate about helping others and working to provide ethical, socially responsible services to their communities.
Social Services