Social Thought & Political Economy (STPEC)

The Social Thought and Political Economy Program (STPEC) is an interdisciplinary undergraduate major in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. The only program of its kind in New England, it is designed for students who want a challenging major that will help them understand the world and work towards changing it. The program draws on courses from a variety of departments in the social sciences and humanities, including Afro-American Studies, Anthropology, Communication, Economics, History, Legal Studies, Philosophy, Political Science, Sociology, and Women, Gender, Sexuality Studies.

Pre-Law Advising at UMass Amherst

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By Rebecca Bell
Rebecca Bell Director of High Impact Program Initiatives, Career and Professional Development for SBS
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Four Unique Podcasts to Inspire Social Innovation

It’s safe to say that many of us could use a bit of inspiration these days—and podcasts are a great way to stay informed and entertained from home. Whether you need a new podcast obsession or just want to know …

By Carol Sharick
Carol Sharick Exec. Director of Career and Professional Development, SBS
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STPEC alum Rachel White,’91, Director of Philanthropic Partnerships at The Guardian

Rachel White uses the power of the press for good.

Using the critical thinking and idealism she learned at UMass Amherst, Rachel is helping change the world through cultural journalism.  Here she is, in her own words.

https://profiles.umass.edu/video/rachel-white?_ga=2.117571209.1491725845.1601314529-1068933627.1509646283

By Carol Sharick
Carol Sharick Exec. Director of Career and Professional Development, SBS
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First, choose an industry of interest, then filter for occupation. (If you'd like to see data for a specific location only, filter by state.)

Featured Alumni

Erin Buechele’19, STPEC

Alumni
  • Boston, MA
  • Relational Organizing Coordinator Massachusetts Democratic Party
Meet Erin

Ella Khorov’19, STPEC & Communication

Alumni
  • Washington, DC
  • Senior Policy Advisor Office of U.S. Congressman Tony Cardenas
Meet Ella
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Featured Resources

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Relevant Courses

SBS Pathways Careers Courses

SBS Pathways Careers Courses SOC BEHAV 250: College to CareersSOC BEHAV 490C: Pathways to Career Success SOC BEHAV 490C: Pathways…
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Research Opportunities

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Explore Outcomes

The SBS Office of Career & Professional Development annually surveys graduating seniors in order to provide a snapshot of their post-graduation plans.  The survey begins just prior to graduation, and continues until six months after graduation.  Our data collection process is guided by the industry standard put forth by the National Association of Colleges & Employers, and includes information collected by the SBS Office of Career & Professional Development, the Office of Institutional Research at UMass Amherst, and by various academic departments, as well as from information that is made publicly available by students.  The SBS undergraduate outcomes knowledge rate for 2022 was 70%, though knowledge rate varies among departments.

The SBS Office of Career & Professional Development annually surveys graduating seniors in order to provide a snapshot of their post-graduation plans.  The survey begins just prior to graduation, and continues until six months after graduation.  Our data collection process is guided by the industry standard put forth by the National Association of Colleges & Employers, and includes information collected by the SBS Office of Career & Professional Development, the Office of Institutional Research at UMass Amherst, and by various academic departments, as well as from information that is made publicly available by students.  The SBS undergraduate outcomes knowledge rate for 2024 was 51.3%, though knowledge rate varies among departments.

  • First Destination
  • Top Employers
  • Starting Salary
  • Job Titles
  • Employment Locations
  • Top Universities
  • Degree Types
  • Fields of Study

First Destination

SBS graduates pursue a range of plans after graduation, including employment, continuing education, and volunteering/service, among others.  This graph depicts what recent SBS graduates tell us they are doing within six months after graduation.