Social Sciences programs usually include courses in psychology, sociology and ethics that teach students how to channel their natural compassion into useful, effective action that helps vulnerable populations such as abuse victims, substance abusers, criminals and the disabled. Career opportunities include treatment facilities, home healthcare, non-profit organizations and government agencies.

Students who like to learn about culture-specific cuisine and entertainment might enjoy attending school in Congo DRC (Zaire), as food and music are two of the country's most popular pastimes. Hundreds of different ethnicities call the country home, and French is the most common of the 242 spoken languages.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.