Georgetown University

What you'll study

The programme combines core methods and theory with flexible elective study across disciplines such as sociology, political science, economics, public policy and psychology. Typical coursework emphasises research design, statistics and qualitative methods, along with thematic modules on social inequality, urbanisation, migration, governance, and public policy analysis.

• Core research methods: courses in statistics, causal inference, survey methods and qualitative techniques.
• Theory and foundations: social theory, political economy and comparative social analysis.
• Electives and concentrations: students choose electives to focus on areas such as development, health and social welfare, human rights, urban studies or migration.
• Capstone or thesis: a research project or thesis supervised by faculty, demonstrating mastery of methods and original engagement with a social-science problem.
• Professional skills: coursework and workshops on data visualisation, policy communication, grant-writing and practicum opportunities.

Students can expect opportunities to take seminars with faculty from multiple departments and to draw on resources of research centres and institutes across the university. Many students supplement coursework with internships in Washington DC organisations.

Entry requirements

• Undergraduate degree (typically a good honours/BA or equivalent) in any discipline; programmes value quantitative preparation but welcome diverse academic backgrounds.
• Academic transcripts demonstrating strong performance.
• Statement of purpose outlining research interests, relevant experience and career goals.
• Letters of recommendation (usually two or three) from academic or professional referees.
• Curriculum vitae or résumé detailing academic, research and professional experience.
• Demonstrated quantitative preparation is often expected; applicants without prior methods training may be asked to complete preparatory coursework.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (e.g. IELTS or TOEFL), where required.

Standardised tests (such as the GRE) may be optional or considered case-by-case; applicants should consult the programme for current testing policy.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles across the public, private and non-profit sectors, and many pursue doctoral study. Typical career pathways include:

• Policy and government: analysts and advisors in local, national and international public agencies.
• Think tanks and research institutes: research associates and project managers conducting policy-relevant research.
• Non-governmental organisations and international organisations: programme officers, monitoring and evaluation specialists, and advocacy roles.
• Private sector: consulting, data analysis, market research and corporate social responsibility roles.
• Academia: graduates who continue to doctoral programmes often pursue research and teaching careers.

The programme’s emphasis on methods and applied research equips graduates to design studies, analyse data and communicate results to technical and non-technical audiences.

Why study at Georgetown University

Georgetown’s location in Washington DC provides exceptional access to policy-makers, international organisations, NGOs and research centres, enabling internships, guest seminars and networking that directly complement academic study. The university’s interdisciplinary culture allows students to take courses across departments and to work with faculty whose research spans comparative politics, public policy, sociology and economics.

• Proximity to decision-makers: frequent events, panels and collaborations with practitioners in government, advocacy and international affairs.
• Research centres and resources: access to a range of specialised centres and libraries that support empirical and policy research.
• Practical training: emphasis on applied methods, data skills and professional development to prepare students for immediate impact in the workplace or further research.