Master of Arts - Social Data Science

The MA degree program in social data science is designed for those interested in the social implications of big data and the ways that data science can provide insight into the understanding of social systems.

The program combines a thorough grounding in digital social science with the skills needed to analyze social data. This unique combination allows graduates to understand and contribute to building ethical social platforms, to manage creative communities, and to understand network-mediated social change. Graduates are prepared to advise institutions, businesses and government agencies on appropriate policies and to draw on large-scale trace data to help address significant social issues.

Artificial intelligence and algorithmic structures of social interaction represent significant challenges to society, and questions of equity, privacy and autonomy have become a recurring public concern. These technologies also may provide the keys for addressing substantial social issues. The critical analysis of these socio-technical systems requires both technical abilities and an understanding of social theory.

ASU offers a Master of Arts in social data science for those interested in engaging research at the intersection of data and society, preparing them to become leaders in the field. Students in the program work through a series of courses that provide a grounding in social theory and digital research methods, and they produce work that exemplifies their understanding of the state of the art in applying social data science within organizational and community contexts.