St. John's University

What you'll study

This Master's programme blends social science and technical perspectives to explore the development, use and governance of science and technology. Core themes include the history and theory of science and technology studies (STS), technology policy and regulation, ethical and social implications of emerging technologies, and methods for interdisciplinary research.

• Foundations in STS: theories and key debates in science and technology studies, including social construction of technology, actor-network theory and feminist STS approaches.
• Technology and society: analyses of digital technologies, biotechnology, energy systems and infrastructure in relation to inequality, labour, environment and public health.
• Policy and governance: regulatory frameworks, science advice in government, risk assessment and stakeholder engagement strategies.
• Research methods: qualitative and quantitative methods appropriate to STS research—interviews, ethnography, discourse analysis, survey design and data interpretation.
• Ethics and public engagement: professional ethics, participatory design, science communication and methods for engaging publics and communities.
• Applied project or capstone: a substantive applied research project, consultancy-style placement or thesis that addresses a real-world problem with practical recommendations.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. While degrees in social sciences, humanities, engineering, natural sciences, computer science or related fields are commonly represented, the programme welcomes applicants from diverse academic backgrounds who can demonstrate an interest in the social dimensions of technology.

• Academic transcripts: official records demonstrating satisfactory undergraduate performance.
• Supporting documents: a personal statement outlining academic and professional goals, a curriculum vitae, and typically one or two letters of recommendation.
• Additional considerations: relevant professional experience, research experience or coursework in related areas can strengthen an application. Standardised tests (such as the GRE) are not universally required—applicants should check the programme guidance. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate English proficiency through an approved test or documentation of prior study in English.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme pursue careers that bridge technical understanding with social, ethical and policy analysis. The degree prepares students for roles in public sector agencies, industry, non-governmental organisations, think tanks and research institutes as well as for further academic study.

• Policy analyst or advisor on technology, science and innovation policy
• Technology ethics officer or compliance specialist in companies developing AI, biotech or data-driven services
• Research associate in interdisciplinary social science or technology research centres
• Programme manager or analyst in NGOs, international organisations and foundations working on digital rights, public health technology or environmental technology
• Science and technology communicator, public engagement specialist or community liaison
• Consultant in technology assessment, risk analysis or stakeholder engagement

Why study at St. John's University

St. John’s University offers this programme in an urban setting with close proximity to government bodies, cultural institutions and a wide range of industries, providing opportunities for internships, partnerships and applied projects. The university emphasises an interdisciplinary approach grounded in ethics and community engagement, reflecting its Vincentian mission to serve others.

Students benefit from small seminar classes, faculty with expertise across social sciences, law and technical disciplines, and access to New York’s networks for placements and professional development. The programme’s applied capstone options help students build a professional portfolio that is attractive to employers and to doctoral programmes.