Preparing you to solve the problems of a changing world
Economic, social and political issues can no longer be understood in isolation from one another. The SMU Bachelor of Social Science degree prepares you to understand the complexity of contemporary societies and to be thought leaders of the future. Our interdisciplinary PPS majors - Psychology, Political Science, and Sociology, plus a final year Social Science Practicum, had produced an exciting corps of Social Science graduates - well-rounded, insightful, and versatile in viewing and tackling problems from multiple perspectives, and capable of taking on leadership position in a diverse field of careers.
The PLE (Politics, Law and Economics) major is for those who wish to become the new leaders, thinkers, and doers of tomorrow as it provides for a deeper understanding of global political perspectives, economic transformations, and the legal frameworks that these changes demand. Graduates develop a higher level of strategic thinking, innovative problem-solving skills and imaginative leadership quality.
Choose A Degree Programme
Psychology, Political Science & Sociology (PPS) Curriculum
The interdisciplinary PPS majors produces graduates that are well-rounded, insightful, versatile in tackling problems from multiple perspectives, and capable of taking on leadership position in a diverse field of careers.
Bachelor Of Social Science: Politics, Law And Economics (PLE) Curriculum
The PLE major prepares future leaders and thinkers with a deep understanding of global political perspectives, economic transformations and the legal frameworks and contexts within which such changes take place.
Specialise Deeply, Or Integrate New Knowledge - It's Your Choice
All SMU students are guaranteed a 2nd major. Pick your second major from the School of Social Sciences or from the rest of the University - you decide!
2nd Major in Sustainable Societies (NEW)
Inspired by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Sustainable Societies (SS) second major instills an appreciation and sense of urgency about the complexities, trade-offs, and synergies that sustainability presents for the people and the planet that we inhabit.
The SS major’s three main pillars – environment, society and the economy – mirrors the realities and challenges of sustainable development of today and the future. With emphasis on problem-solving perspectives and capabilities, and interdisciplinarity, the SS major aims to develop in students skillsets for current and future ‘green’ jobs across industries and sectors.
2nd Major in Global Asia
Global Asia (GA) is an area-focused interdisciplinary second major committed to social science scholarship that studies contemporary Asia within a global context. The programme integrates knowledge from various fields including international relations, sociology, political science, economics, law, and cultural studies.
2nd Major in Public Policy and Public Management
This major is designed to provide students with a definitive grasp of public policy topics. It primes students for future careers that require an exposure to national and international policy-relevant subject matters and a firm grasp of public sector relevant skills. It also builds students’ knowledge and expertise on topics related to contemporary global governance.
Choose a 2nd Major From Across SMU
With over 500+ double major and double degree combinations, you will be able to pick a 2nd major that best suits your interests. Complementary or contrasting major? It's your choice!
Why Choose SMU School of Social Sciences
Interdisciplinary Approach
Deepen your learning experience through an interdisciplinary approach that equips you to be well-rounded, insightful, and versatile in tackling problems from multiple perspectives.
Multiple Career Pathways
Our graduates are known to be confident and articulate critical thinkers, and enjoy strong employability in a variety of careers in both public and private sectors.
Experiential Learning
Explore experiential learning opportunities through interactions with civil society, government, and industry partners.
Close Student-Faculty Interaction
Enjoy close student-faculty interaction of up to 45 students in each class.
Distinguished and Devoted SOSS Faculty
Distinguished and engaging faculty who are experienced in their area of specialisation and dedicated to your learning.
Explore Further
Postgraduate Programmes
Interested in going beyond an undergraduate degree? Find out more about the SMU School of Social Sciences' range of postgraduate programmes and research opportunities to see how you can extend your SMU journey even further.
Find out more about the Fast-Track MPhil in Psychology Programme >>
Faculty Community
Our faculty are leading researchers and teachers who also have a heart for mentorship and service. They bring decades of solid experience and industry knowledge to the classroom in SMU.
Student Life in SOSS
With more than 150 student clubs and organisations on campus, there's always something to do! Student life at SMU is rich and vibrant, whether you dedicate your time within your School community or stretch out into the wider SMU community.