The Social Science Associate of Science (AS) degree represents the first two years of a four-year bachelor’s degree in the social and behavioral sciences. Designed for students interested in human behavior, social institutions, cultural history, and community dynamics, this curriculum combines a solid core of general education with targeted electives in psychology, sociology, political science, history, and social work.
Program at a Glance
| Program Aspect | Details |
| Award Earned | Associate of Science (A.S.) |
| Total Credit Hours | 60–64 Credit Hours |
| Program Length | Four Semesters (2 years of full-time study) |
| Transfer Framework | Aligned with Transfer Virginia Social & Behavioral Science Pathways |
| Program Head | Tina Dressler — tdressler@mgcc.edu | (540) 863-2817 |
🌐 Seamless Transfer in Social & Behavioral Sciences
MGCC’s Social Science AS degree aligns with the Transfer Virginia framework to ensure your credits transfer directly into major requirements at Virginia public and private four-year universities. Explore major transfer roadmaps at the Transfer Virginia Portal.
Supported Transfer Virginia Pathways
By selecting advisor-guided electives, students can customize their course schedule for direct transfer into four-year university majors, including:
- Psychology
- Communications & Media Studies
- Criminal Justice & Criminology
- Political Science & Public Policy
- Social Work (BSW)
- History & Historical Studies
- Sociology & Anthropology
Why Choose Social Science at MGCC?
- Targeted Preparation for Human Service Careers: Develop critical thinking, research methods, data interpretation, and interpersonal communication skills applicable across public, private, and non-profit sectors.
- Cost-Effective Foundation: Complete foundational general education and lower-level major requirements at MGCC’s low tuition rate before transferring.
- Guaranteed Admission Agreements: Qualify for Guaranteed Admissions Agreements (GAA) with top colleges and universities across Virginia upon completion of your associate degree.
Curriculum & Course Plan
The 60–64 credit hour curriculum balances general education requirements (English composition, natural sciences, mathematics) with structured electives in history, psychology, sociology, and political science.
👉 View the Complete Social Science AS Course Sequence in the Catalog
Program Contact & Academic Advising
Planning your social science transfer roadmap or selecting major electives? Contact our Program Head or Student Services:
Tina Dressler — Program Head, Social Sciences
Phone: (540) 863-2817 | Email: tdressler@mgcc.edu
Office Location: Scott Hall, Clifton Forge Campus
MGCC Student Services Suite
Phone: (540) 863-2820 | Email: admissions@mgcc.edu
Location: Backels Hall, First Floor (Clifton Forge Campus)