Academic Programs
College of Social Sciences and Humanities
Computational Social Science
Graduate 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.
Location
Arlington, VA
Commitment
Part-Time, Full Time
Duration
1 – 2 years
f-1 visa ELIGIBLE
No
Type
On ground
Program Overview
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.
Program Features
- 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.
Career Outlook
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.
Admission Requirements
- 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
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:
Tuition and Aid
Domestic
$17,352
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. Find detailed information on tuition and fees from Student Financial Services.
Finance Your Education
We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships. Learn more from Student Financial Services.
Curriculum
For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.
Experiential Learning
Northeastern’s signature experience-powered learning model has been at the heart of the university for more than a century. It combines world-class academics with professional practice, allowing you to acquire relevant, real-world skills you can immediately put into action in your current workplace. This makes a Northeastern education a dynamic, transformative experience, giving you countless opportunities to grow as a professional and person.
Admission Dates
Spring
| Final deadline for domestic applicants: | December 15 |
Fall
| Final deadline for domestic applicants: | August 15 |
Additional information for international applicants can be found at the Office of Global Services (OGS). OGS is an active resource to over 20,000 international students and scholars from 147 different nations across the world. They provide the professional expertise and support you need to maintain compliance through immigration, academic, and your employment experiences—helping you remain a valuable member of the Northeastern community.
How to Apply
Learn more about the College of Social Sciences and Humanities’ admissions process and required materials.
Request Information
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