Integrative Social Science, MS
Applied Social Science, General Social Science, Integrative Social Science, Interdisciplinary Social Science, Interdisciplinary Studies, Political Science, economics, philosophy, sociology
Begin a transformative journey that will prepare you to be a leader in addressing the complex challenges facing our world. With a curriculum designed to meet the needs of modern society and a focus on integrative learning, this program is your gateway to making a positive difference.
In a rapidly evolving world, the complexities of societal issues require innovative and multifaceted solutions. The Master of Science program in integrative social science is designed for forward-thinking individuals ready to take on complex challenges. This advanced degree program merges various social science disciplines, equipping students with the skills and knowledge to address pressing global issues, such as climate change, social injustice and poverty.
Unlike traditional programs that focus on single disciplines, this program takes a holistic approach, recognizing that problems are interconnected, and diverse perspectives are required to pursue solutions. Students explore the foundations of sociology, economics and policy analysis, fostering an expansive analytical skill set.
The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical analysis and practical problem-solving. Students learn to approach issues through a multifaceted lens, integrating strategies from various fields to devise effective solutions.
Students join a vibrant, inclusive community of learners from various backgrounds. The faculty represents a wide variety of perspectives, and the program is particularly attuned to the needs of international and minority students, ensuring a rich educational experience.
Students benefit from exploring:
- creative problem-solving: developing innovative solutions by combining insights from different social sciences
- multidisciplinary perspectives: analyzing problems through the lens of multiple disciplines to gain a comprehensive understanding
- research and analysis: gaining expertise in researching complex social issues and communicating findings effectively.
- College/school:
College of Integrative Sciences and Arts
- Location: Polytechnic
- STEM-OPT extension eligible: No
Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
30 credit hours including a thesis, or
30 credit hours including the required applied project course (ISS 593)
Required Core (9 credit hours)
ISS 501 Advanced Integrated Social Research Methods (3)
ISS 502 Advanced Seminar in Integrated Social Science (3)
ISS 505 Multivariate Methodologies of Social Science (3)
Electives or Research (15 or 18 credit hours)
Culminating Experience (3 or 6 credit hours)
ISS 593 Applied Project (3) or
ISS 599 Thesis (6)
Additional Curriculum Information
Students choose either the thesis or the applied project option.
For elective coursework, students choose from a list of preapproved courses for a total of 15 to 18 credit hours. Other courses may be used with approval from the academic unit.
Students are highly encouraged to participate in an internship for elective coursework. An internship is a structured practical experience that follows a contract or plan supervised by faculty and practitioners. Students should contact the academic unit for a list of possible elective courses and internship opportunities.
General university admission requirements:
All students are required to meet general
university admission requirements.
U.S. applicants | International applicants | English proficiency
Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the College of Integrative Sciences and Arts.
Applicants must have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in any social science or interdisciplinary field, such as political science, sociology, philosophy, economics, psychology, public policy administration, or a closely related field, from a regionally accredited institution.
Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
All applicants must submit:
- graduate admission application and application fee
- official transcripts
- proof of English proficiency
Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.
Graduates of the program are distinctly positioned for success in various fields, including policy development, social research and community organization, as well as for academic pursuits. Graduates have the tools to make a meaningful impact in society, whether they enter the workforce or continue their education in a doctoral program.
School of Applied Sciences and Arts
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SANCA 233
CISA@asu.edu
480-727-1526
3 year programs
These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
