Brown University Campus
Bachelor of Science
On Campus
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Brown University
Providence
United States

Social Analysis and Research

About

The Social Analysis and Research Bachelor of Science program offers students a rigorous and interdisciplinary education focused on understanding the structures, behaviors, and trends that shape modern societies. Combining foundational principles from sociology with advanced training in data collection and analysis, this program equips students with the tools to critically examine topics like inequality, public policy, education, urban development, and more. Students engage with both theoretical frameworks and empirical methods to interpret human behavior within diverse social contexts, gaining a strong analytical perspective on contemporary social issues.

This program stands out for its integration of quantitative research methods, statistical modeling, and data-driven inquiry, providing a unique bridge between traditional social sciences and modern computational approaches. Students learn to design studies, interpret large datasets, and apply evidence-based insights to real-world problems. With a curriculum that balances sociological theory with methodological precision, and opportunities for fieldwork, internships, or collaborative research, graduates develop a deep understanding of society along with the skills to create meaningful impact through research, evaluation, or policy design.

Key information

Duration
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Tuition fee
$71,700.00/year
Start dates & application deadlines
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More details
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Key Facts

  • Program Title: Social Analysis and Research
  • Degree Type: Bachelor of Science
  • Duration: 4 years
  • Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
  • Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
  • Location: Brown University, United States
  • Field of Study: Sociology
  • Language of Instruction: English

Program Structure

Year 1 – Foundations of Social Inquiry

  • Introduction to Sociology
  • Statistics for the Social Sciences
  • Social Problems and Policies
  • Academic Writing and Research

Year 2 – Research Skills and Theory

  • Classical and Contemporary Sociological Theory
  • Research Methods in Sociology
  • Data Visualization and Interpretation
  • Elective: Race, Class, and Gender

Year 3 – Applied Social Research

  • Survey Design and Analysis
  • Social Networks and Big Data
  • Sociology of Institutions
  • Internship or Field Research Project

Year 4 – Advanced Analysis and Capstone

  • Advanced Quantitative Methods
  • Seminar in Social Analysis
  • Senior Thesis / Independent Study
  • Electives in Demography, Education, or Public Health

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program are well-positioned for dynamic careers where data literacy and social insight are essential. They can work as research analysts, data consultants, policy advisors, or program evaluators in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, research institutes, or the private sector. Their ability to interpret and present social data makes them valuable in areas such as market research, urban planning, public health, and education policy. Many also pursue graduate studies in sociology, public administration, social work, or data science, advancing toward leadership roles in academia, think tanks, and global institutions.

Why Choose This Program

This program offers a rare blend of social science theory and data-driven analysis, giving students the ability to understand, measure, and respond to the complexities of human societies. With strong faculty mentorship, hands-on research opportunities, and exposure to real-world applications of social inquiry, students are prepared to tackle the social challenges of our time with clarity and purpose. Whether aiming to influence public policy, lead organizational change, or pursue advanced academic research, this degree provides the methodological expertise and sociological perspective to make a lasting impact.

Contact Information

For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 401 863 1000
Email: admissions@brown.edu
Address: University of Brown, Providence, RI 02912, United States