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College of Social Sciences & Humanities

Applied Quantitative Methods and Social Analysis

Master's

The Master of Science in Applied Quantitative Methods and Social Analysis is an interdisciplinary, flexible, and innovative degree focusing on quantitative research methods for social analysis strategies and techniques.

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Program Format
On ground
Time Commitment
Part time, Full time
Duration
12 - 16 Months
Entry Term(s)
Fall, Spring
Meets F1 visa requirements
Yes

Program overview

Flexible, interdisciplinary study

The Master of Science in Applied Quantitative Methods and Social Analysis is an interdisciplinary, flexible, and innovative degree that focuses on quantitative research methods for social analysis strategies and techniques. The program seeks to educate ambitious social scientists and analysts primed to deploy computational tools for social analysis and tackle social science questions of equity, hierarchy, social organization, and social systems.

Students gain advanced training in statistical analysis and research methodology, including data analytics, computational methods, network analysis, statistical methods, information ethics, geospatial analysis, and the digital humanities as they relate to the social sciences.

In Arlington, a hub of technical innovation, security, defense, and policy, we partner with the public and private sectors, the nonprofit community, think tanks, trade associations, and NGOs to prepare learners for leadership in job roles of the future.

  • Length of program: One-year program with optional co-op extending the degree to 16 months.
  • Flexible: Students choose one of five concentrations to gain an in-depth knowledge of a specialized methodological and analytical technique for social analysis.
  • Co-op: Includes an option for an integrated experiential learning opportunity through co-op, positioning students with a competitive advantage in the workforce.
  • Stack your credentials: Students will also have the opportunity to incorporate a range of graduate certificate programs into the master’s degree.

Graduates of the Master of Science in Applied Quantitative Methods and Social Analysis will be qualified to pursue a wide range of analytical, social science, and academic careers. With projected growth over the next decade, graduates will be well-positioned to pursue careers as statisticians, data scientists, social scientists, survey researchers, and other mathematical science occupations.

Learning objectives

The 21st century economy will increasingly demand a workforce capable of collecting, processing, analyzing, and interpreting large-scale data on human attributes, personal preferences, social attributes, and political behavior. In response, this program provides students with rigorous training in quantitative research and social science methods to address important questions of social inquiry.

Emphasizing public dissemination of findings, the program prepares students to inform decision-makers in the private and public sectors, and the broader community. These skills prepare graduates to pursue analytical or research careers in corporations, non-profits, and public services, or to continue their education.

Co-op opportunities

Students in this program may take advantage of various co-op opportunities—positions such as policy analysts, network scientists, econometricians, and crime analysts. These co-op opportunities provide students with a professional environment to integrate quantitative skills and social analysis. The learning opportunities in professional settings (private sector, government, or non-profit sector) reinforce the development of advanced quantitative skills and their applied nature to contemporary social issues.

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
International Out-of-country DeadlineJune 15

Spring Term Entry

Domestic and International In-country DeadlineDecember 15
International Out-of-country DeadlineNovember 1

  • Application

  • Application fee

  • Personal statement

  • Resumé

  • Three letters of recommendation

  • Unofficial transcripts from all institutions attended

    • 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.)

  • English proficiency for international applicants

  • Applicants are strongly encouraged to demonstrate proficiency in undergraduate coursework in mathematics, statistics, or related areas

Program objectives

Prepare for success

The program educates social scientists and analysts in the use of computational tools to address questions of equity, hierarchy, social organization, and social systems in the field of social science.

Expert analysis

Students will be trained to define social problems and operationalize measures and research design. Students learn to articulate the concepts and theories of quantitative analysis for social inquiry.

Data-driven tools

Students utilize a variety of data to analyze the causes and consequences of social problems.

Quantitative techniques

Students apply quantitative techniques in the social sciences to contemporary social, economic, political, cultural, and ethical problems in society.

Communication skills

Students learn how to best communicate the results of research to broader audiences, including the scientific community and the public.

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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Cost of attendance

Tuition and financial aid

  • $46,272 - $49,164
    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.

Studying in Arlington

A crossroads of tech, security, and policy

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Students interested in government, policy, tech, security, aerospace, and business will find a launchpad in Arlington. Located minutes away from Washington, D.C., Arlington offers career-boosting partnerships with industry leaders in the public and private sectors.

9,000+

Northeastern alumni in the D.C. metro area

Northeastern alumni work at top companies in the region and can become valuable partners as you chart your career.

#1 

Best city for women in tech 

Arlington is a welcoming environment where anyone can thrive in tech, regardless of gender or background. (SmartAsset, 2022)

#1

Best state for business

Virginia's well-connected industries make it the ideal place for entrepreneurs and other business professionals to make their marks. (CNBC, 2024)