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College of Social Sciences & Humanities

Computational Social Science

Certificate

Master Big Data, machine learning, and predictive analytics to tackle pressing issues in public policy, sociology, public health, and more with a Graduate Certificate in Computational Social Science.

Program curriculum Explore College of Social Sciences & Humanities
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Program Format
On Ground, Online
Time Commitment
Part time, Full time
Duration
1 - 2 Year(s)
Entry Term(s)
Fall, Spring
Meets F1 visa requirements
No
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Program overview

Social science meets data

Northeastern’s Graduate Certificate in Computational Social Science empowers students to leverage Big Data, computational analysis, and predictive analytics to address theoretical and policy questions in various social science fields, including public policy, sociology, economics, and political science.

This program focuses on collecting, analyzing, and interpreting insights from Big Data using computational techniques. You’ll learn how to apply these methods to develop policies and evaluate outcomes, gaining skills that are in high demand as this field rapidly evolves.

  • Complete the certificate on its own or in conjunction with other graduate degree programs in the College of Social Sciences and Humanities.
  • Gain technical training in computational techniques within the social sciences.
  • Develop analytical skills to frame and investigate social science issues and public policies using computational methods.
  • Learn from a curriculum that emphasizes real-world application and hands-on learning.

Equip yourself with cutting-edge skills that employers highly seek in the rapidly developing field of computational social science. This certificate opens up new research and analysis opportunities in both academic and professional settings, contributing to data-driven decision-making in a variety of industries.

Admissions

Apply to the program

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and real-world professional experience in your area of interest. Apply to take your career to the next level.


Fall Term Entry

Domestic and International In-country DeadlineAugust 15

Spring Term Entry

Domestic and International In-country DeadlineDecember 15

  • Application

  • Application fee

  • Personal statement

  • Unofficial transcripts

    • The Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE) is a required assessment of all transcripts and documents from non-U.S. accredited post-secondary education institutions. (Review the FCE requirements by country.)

  • Resumé

  • 1 letter of recommendation

Program objectives

Prepare for success

Strengthen your technical expertise to apply computational analysis in social science, develop policy, and evaluate outcomes effectively.

Master Big Data analysis

Learn how to collect, analyze, and interpret data using computational methods to address critical social science questions.

Policy development skills

Understand how computational analysis contributes to developing and evaluating public policy outcomes.

Connect with us

Want more information?

We’re here to answer your questions about this program, the application process, and more. Complete the form below to receive additional program details and speak with a member of our enrollment team. 

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Degree building

Stack your certificate

Earning a graduate certificate is a fast and affordable way to acquire specialized skills while building toward your master’s degree. Upon completion of this certificate program, you may be able to apply your credits to an eligible master’s program, saving time and money on your degree.

Some of the eligible master’s programs for this certificate include:

Contact an enrollment counselor to learn more about eligibility requirements.

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Cost of attendance

Tuition and financial aid

  • $17,352
    Tuition in USD

Estimated Total Tuition

This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2025-2026 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Select programs at select campuses offer additional scholarships of up to 25% off the listed price for domestic students studying on campus. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.

For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.

There are many ways to pay for your education, including scholarships, financial aid, and more. Connect with a financial counselor to learn about your options and make your dream a reality.

Visit tuition & financial aid

Total Cost of Attendance: This figure reflects the cost-per-credit pricing for the current academic year. The total cost of attendance is dependent on the pace at which students complete the program. Please visit the Student Financial Services site for a more detailed breakdown of pricing per credit and other program fees.

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