Academics

Social Research and Data Analysis

MA • Master's

Students in classroom with laptops open on desks

Data tells the story — are you ready to be the storyteller? Our MA in Social Research and Data Analysis equips you to harness the power of data to inform decision making in fields such as market research, health care, education, environmental policy, and more.

This 30-credit program can be completed in as little as 16 months and allows you to choose between a fully online or a hybrid experience.

What you will achieve in this program:

  • Master tools like surveys, interviews, focus groups, ethnographic research, data analysis and machine learning using software programs like R, SPSS and NVivo.
  • Tailor your degree by choosing electives in social policy research, business analytics or communications and media, or environmental sciences.
  • Lead a real-world project and apply your skills firsthand through a research practicum

You’ll also be supported with career mentorship and networking opportunities.

Take it to the next level:
Seamlessly pair this degree with the online Certificates in Business Analytics or Data Collection & Management. The MA and the Data Collection & Management are STEM designated and they can also become a stepping stone to a PhD.

Ready to turn analysis into insight and insight into impact? Your next chapter of meaningful research starts here.

Apply NowRequest Info

Your Degree, Your Way

We offer two program paths to complete the Social Research & Data Analysis (MA). Both paths can be completed in as little as 16 months and are designed to provide you with flexible learning options to pursue your graduate education.


Career Opportunities

The MA in Social Research and Data Analysis degree is appropriate for career titles such as:

  • Social Policy Analyst
  • Market Researcher
  • Data Consultant
  • Survey Researcher
  • Interviewer
  • Focus Group Moderator
  • Social Science Researcher
  • Data Analyst
  • Community Relations Specialists
  • Evaluation Researcher
  • Community and Social Service Specialist
  • Program Analyst
  • Government Affairs

Admissions Requirements

In addition to your application, you’ll need to submit the following supplemental materials in order to be considered:

  • Transcripts: One from each college attended
  • Statement of Purpose – Please write an integrated essay providing a response to each of the following questions:
    • What are your goals for graduate study and your future career?
    • In what ways do your academic background and your professional experiences provide evidence of your potential for success in the program you selected and in your eventual career? Please give specific examples of relevant coursework and/or experience.
    • Is there any further information we should consider in assessing your candidacy?
  • Letters of Recommendation (Optional): You may optionally submit up to two (2) letters of recommendation, from persons qualified to evaluate the applicant’s promise of academic achievement and potential for professional growth. However, we do encourage applicants with an undergraduate GPA below a 3.0 to consider submitting at least one recommendation letter.

Applicants with non-U.S. degrees, please visit the International Applicants page to review the US degree equivalency information.

Meet Our Students

Learn more about the Social Research and Data Analysis program, directly from our students.

“I didn’t have a Sociology background so I was worried about starting this whole new field of study but it wasn’t as hard as I thought it would be. A lot of the classes are introductory [yet] complex, but complex in a way you can understand… The classes, plus the cost, plus the flexibility of the program really made it a fit for me.”

Gio Exume
Program: MA Social Research & Data Analysis, Certificate in Data Collection & Management

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    For the Hybrid Program

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    For the Online Program

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    For Curriculum Questions

    Curious about the curriculum? Contact Program Coordinator Christopher Donoghue for course planning, electives and faculty guidance.

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