Data Analytics for Social Sciences

The Motor Speech Disorders Lab, run by Dr. Kris Tjaden, with the Department of Communicative Disorder and Sciences in Cary Hall. Photographer: Meredith Forrest Kulwicki.

Data analysis skills have become a critical component of Social Sciences research and are sought after in the private sector.

What is Data Analytics for Social Sciences (DASS)?

Social sciences disciplines have seen new data analysis techniques emerge over the last 10 years, both in terms of the range of relevant statistical models and the range of data made available for hypothesis testing. Many of these techniques are necessary for the next generation of social scientists.

Are you a social​ ​scientist​ ​with​ ​intellectual​ ​drive​ ​and curiosity,​ ​who​ ​wants​ ​to​ ​think​ ​more​ ​critically​ ​about​ ​the​ ​importance​ ​of​ ​data​ ​in your​ ​field? ​This​ ​program​ ​lets​ ​students​ ​apply​ ​a​ ​variety​ ​of​ ​methodologies​ ​to​ ​a discipline​ ​of​ ​their​ ​choice. If you are an interdisciplinary​ ​student​ ​who wants​ ​to​ ​add​ ​even more​ ​value​ ​to​ ​your​ social​ ​sciences training in the digital age, this program is for you.

Program Overview

MS in Data Analytics in Social Sciences
Advanced Certificate in Data Analytics for the Social Sciences

UB offers two unique programs: an MS in Data Analytics in Social Sciences (36 credits), and an Advanced Certificate in Data Analysis for the Social Sciences (18 credits).

DASS combines coursework and learning opportunities from our social sciences departments at UB: Sociology, Linguistics, Psychology, Geography, Anthropology, Communication, Political Science and Economics. This provides students with a truly interdisciplinary approach to data analysis by exposing them to research methods and trends across different areas of social science. By combining broad exposure to data analysis with expanded work in the discipline of your choice, you will graduate as a well-rounded candidate for professional opportunities or additional academic study.

Our ultimate goal is provide students with:

  1. Statistical skills to analyze data
  2. Computational skills to manipulate or model data
  3. Knowledge of methods used in a social science of the student’s choice
  4. Hands-on experience in applying data analysis and modeling skills on a research project

Admissions

Admissions guidelines for the MS and Advanced Certificate vary slightly, but overall, the admissions committee seeks motivated students with strong academic records, particularly in the social sciences.

MS in Data Analytics in Social Sciences  Admissions
Advanced Certificate in Data Analytics for the Social Sciences  Admissions

Questions? Contact Us

New, current and prospective students should contact the DASS Graduate Program Coordinator with any questions regarding application process, enrollment, choosing an advisor, and student services:

Jennifer Mdurvwa
Director of Graduate Enrollment and Program Coordinator 
jmdurvwa@buffalo.edu
716-645-1391