Master of Social Science
Certifications and short courses
Programs designed for rapid upskilling in digital skills and competencies.
Course modality
100% online, asynchronous, and flexible, with instructor support and 24/7 access to virtual resources.
Languages
Programs in English, with an option for Spanish.
Program Description
The Master of Social Science is an interdisciplinary graduate program that prepares professionals to understand, design, and implement social solutions in diverse community contexts. The program combines theories of human behavior, public policy, and social innovation with practical skills for community engagement, inclusion, and advocacy.
Students may choose one of the following majors to specialize their studies in a particular area of interest:
- Major in Therapeutic Environments: Focuses on designing and evaluating environments—physical, social, and institutional—that promote mental health, well-being, and recovery in clinical and community settings.
- Major in Senior Adults: Addresses the needs, rights, and development of aging populations, with emphasis on policy, service delivery, and support systems for elderly care and active aging.
- Major in Community Development and Social Innovation: Equips students with tools for social entrepreneurship, participatory planning, and innovative solutions that address inequality, inclusion, and sustainable development.
Graduates are prepared for roles in social services, non-governmental organizations, healthcare institutions, urban planning, and public agencies focused on human development and well-being.
Program Objective
The Master of Social Science aims to:
- Equip students with advanced knowledge of social theory and applied research in human and community development.
- Develop competencies for designing inclusive and therapeutic environments that respond to diverse population needs.
- Promote critical understanding of aging-related issues, including policy frameworks and care systems for older adults.
- Train professionals in social innovation methodologies, participatory approaches, and community-based problem solving.
- Strengthen ethical leadership and advocacy skills in addressing social challenges and promoting social justice.
- Enhance capacity for interdisciplinary collaboration across sectors involved in human well-being and development.
- Foster the use of data, technology, and evidence-based practice to support policy development and service delivery.
- Prepare graduates for impactful careers in government, nonprofit organizations, international development, and applied research.
Program Breakdown
Course Number | Course Title | Credit Hours |
| REQUIRED CORE COURSES |
|
SOC510 | Foundations of Social Science Theory and Practice | 3 |
SOC520 | Advanced Research Methods in Social Science | 3 |
ETH520 | Ethics and Human Rights in Social Practice | 3 |
SOC530 | Cultural Diversity and Inclusive Social Systems | 3 |
PSY550 | Psychosocial Dynamics of Individuals and Groups | 3 |
SOC540 | Public Policy and Social Change | 3 |
SOC550 | Leadership and Collaborative Strategies in Social Contexts | 3 |
TEC550 | Technology and Innovation in Social Services | 3 |
| Sub – Total | 24 |
| MAJOR IN THERAPEUTIC ENVIRONMENTS |
|
THE610 | Designing Therapeutic Spaces and Interventions | 3 |
THE620 | Art, Nature, and Expressive Therapies in Social Contexts | 3 |
PSY630 | Environmental Psychology and Wellbeing | 3 |
MSS690 | Capstone Written Project – Social Science | 3 |
| Sub – Total | 12 |
| MAJOR IN SENIOR ADULTS |
|
SEN610 | Aging, Cognitive Change and Emotional Wellbeing | 3 |
SEN620 | Programs and Services for the Elderly | 3 |
SEN630 | Policy and Advocacy for Aging Populations | 3 |
MSS690 | Capstone Written Project – Social Science | 3 |
| Sub – Total | 12 |
| MAJOR IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND SOCIAL INNOVATION |
|
INN610 | Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship for Impact | 3 |
INN620 | Participatory Methods and Empowerment Strategies | 3 |
INN630 | Urban and Rural Community Systems Planning | 3 |
MSS690 | Capstone Written Project – Social Science | 3 |
| Sub – Total | 12 |
| Total | 36 |
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