Program Objectives

The Bachelor’s program in “Social Sciences for Global Challenges” provides students with
the interdisciplinary tools of social sciences and administration needed to understand the
causes, nature and evolution of political, economic, demographic, climate and health-
related challenges that increasingly affect contemporary societies at all levels (local,
national and supranational). In addition, the program also provides the organizational skills
to work effectively in public administrations and within international and national
organizations.
In the constant effort to develop strategies and responses to problems that affect a
growing numbers of individuals and communities, international organizations and
administrations increasingly need the contribution of the social sciences and their ability to
take into account the links between the local and global levels, to engage in dialogue
across administrative, legal, economic, political, health, and environmental dimensions that
do not always communicate with each other, and to grasp the impact of these processes
on the lives of individuals and groups.
The program aims to train professionals who can contribute to the excellence and
operational effectiveness of national and international organizations, public administrations
and third-sector organizations, with particular reference to those dealing with global
challenges (such as climate change, biodiversity, health, growing inequalities, migrations,
population ageing). Students will be equipped to address the legal, social, political and
economic challenges that characterize complex organizations and to develop a critical
interpretation of ongoing change by drawing on the organizational models of both
international and private institutions (e.g. service providers, non-profit organizations, social
enterprises).
Through the program, students will develop multidisciplinary competences in the following
areas: Political and Social Sciences, Law, Economics, History, Statistics, Anthropology and
Foreign languages, with additional competences in Maths, Epidemiology and Complexity
Theory. Students will be equipped with the necessary language and communication skills
to engage effectively in academic and professional communication at both national and
international levels. To this end, students will also have the opportunity to participate in
several study abroad programs offered by the University of Pavia (Erasmus+ study,
Erasmus traineeship, Overseas and extra-European international exchange programs). An
Italian language course is additionally offered to foreign students.
The program follows a progressive, interdisciplinary academic path: while the first year
provides students with the necessary knowledge and theoretical tools, the second and
third years offer more specialized courses, and at the same time focus on the development
of interdisciplinary and soft skills essential to operate in a multifaceted and international
environment (including teamwork, critical argumentation, problem solving). As a way to

focus on specific interest areas, we offer a wide range of elective courses. The Degree
Program also offers the opportunity to participate in curricular internships or training
activities within national and international qualified organizations to provide a more
practical and career-oriented experience.
At the end of the third year, students will write a research thesis under the supervision of a
member of the Department.