Admissions information

Social Data Science, MA

Is this program right for me?

Organizations seek out those who combine a unique pairing of skills and knowledge: those who can combine technological abilities with a deep social understanding of how organizations and communities work. This masters program is designed to prepare those who have this vital combination to engage in social data science. If you have a background in data science but need to be able to translate this into social outcomes, or if you have social science knowledge but want to build toward more technical competence, this program is for you. If you are invested in making sure social data is used to help organizations and individuals, and want to be part of building a more ethical and just future using information and communication technologies, you've found the ideal program in which to explore this.

If your aim is to focus solely on polishing the technical aspects of your data science training, or if you are more interested in learning more about social media marketing, there are other programs at ASU and elsewhere that will serve you better. But if you want to be working at the cusp of social data science research and practice, this is the masters program you are looking for.

Campus immersion program at a glance

Location: West Valley Campus
Credit Hours: 30
Flexible Schedule: evening classes
Time to Completion: 18 months
Admit Term: Fall
Application Deadlines

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Program Handbook SDS Coursework Program Advising

Pursuing a graduate degree represents a pivotal juncture in your academic and professional path. We are committed to ensuring that you are well-informed and well-prepared for this significant journey. To facilitate your exploration and understanding of the program, we encourage you to delve into our advising website. Here, you can access vital information regarding program prerequisites, course offerings, and the expertise of our esteemed faculty.

We particularly recommend a thorough review of the curriculum check sheet and the program handbook. These documents offer an insightful glimpse into what you can expect during your academic journey, helping you gain a comprehensive understanding of the program's requirements and guidelines. Your time spent exploring these resources will be invaluable as you embark on this next chapter of your education.

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Online options

The Social Data Science, MA program is offered in-person or 100% online. This page is for the in-person program. To learn more about the 100% online option, applicants may view the program description and request more information by clicking the button below.

Online program

Application Components

The ASU Graduate Admission Application requires personal information, academic history, residency information and degree selection. After you select your degree, you will be prompted for the following supplemental materials.

If you need assistance with filling out any part of the application please visit us online at: https://admission.asu.edu/apply/graduate/admission

Completed applications must be electronically submitted to ASU and include the following:

Statement of Purpose

The statement of purpose should give the committee a better picture of who you are, share your academic and professional goals, scholarly interests, as well as explain why you decided to pursue this particular graduate program.

The statement should be compelling, show off your writing skills, and include specific research interests.

Your personal statement should be no more than two double-spaced pages.

GPA Requirement

A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on 4.0 scale in the last 60 semester hours or 90 quarter hours of undergraduate coursework. If you do not meet the minimum GPA requirements, a GRE score is required.

Transcripts

If you are recommended for admission by the academic unit, you will be required to provide an official transcript (sent to us by mail directly from the institution). Your offer of admission and ability to register for classes will be contingent upon the receipt and verification of these official documents (which must show the award of degrees where appropriate).

The unofficial transcript that is uploaded must match the official transcript we receive. Do not upload spreadsheet documents as these are not acceptable for review. Instead, you can use a screen-capture or a picture of the official transcript and copy and paste the image onto a Word document. You are also allowed to scan and upload a copy of your official transcripts (this is preferred). Please include the transcript key or legend (often on the back of the official transcript) in your upload.

Arizona State University reserves the right to require official transcripts any time prior to admission review and revoke any admission decisions if the unofficial transcript(s) do not match the official transcripts.

Please make sure your unofficial transcript document includes your required bachelor's degree transcript. If you have transcripts from more than one university or have multiple degrees from the same university, please upload all transcripts in one file.

If unofficial transcripts are not uploaded at time of application, official transcripts will be required to be submitted before your application will move forward for review for admission.

English Proficiency

An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

International applicants should review details online to determine if a TOEFL or IELTS score must be submitted. Information can be found by visiting students.asu.edu/graduate/proficiency.

Review Process

Review of applications for admission are done on a rolling basis. Typically decisions are returned within 14 calendar days from the date the application is ‘in review’. The decision timeframe may increase during peak cycles.

Applicants can view the status of their application online via My ASU. The New College may reach out to request additional information or provide updates so it is important to check your email regularly.

After submitting your application please contact ncgradadmissions@asu.edu with any questions.

While you wait for a decision we recommend that you:

explore resources available to all ASU Graduate Students available here.
submit your FAFSA, for more information visit: https://tuition.asu.edu/financial-aid

Accelerated Options

New College offers a number of accelerated master's programs, providing top undergraduate students in select programs the flexibility to begin taking classes (up to twelve credit hours) toward their master’s degree during their senior year. By combining undergraduate and graduate coursework in your senior year for shared credit, you’ll save up to an entire year of schooling and receive both degrees in as little as five years. *Accelerated Master's options are available to current ASU undergraduate students in select programs. To learn more approved programs and requirements, click here.

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