CUNY(The City University of New York)

What you'll study

The programme combines core methodological training with substantive courses across disciplines such as sociology, political science, economics, anthropology and urban studies. Core modules typically cover research design, qualitative methods, quantitative analysis (including statistics and applied data analysis), and ethics in social research.

• Research Methods and Statistics: Applied statistics, survey methods, regression analysis and data visualisation using commonly used software.
• Qualitative Methods: Ethnography, interview techniques, case study research and content analysis.
• Social Theory and Policy: Contemporary social theory, policy analysis and comparative social institutions.
• Area and Applied Studies: Urban studies, public policy, social inequality, migration, health and education policy depending on elective choices.
• Capstone or Thesis: A supervised research thesis or a professional practicum/capstone project that applies methods to a real-world problem.

Students can typically tailor their pathway with elective modules and may choose between a research-oriented track (thesis) and a professional track (capstone or practicum). Opportunities for internships and collaborative projects with local government, nonprofits and research centres in New York City are commonly integrated into the programme.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree. Suitable undergraduate backgrounds include social sciences, humanities, public policy, economics or related fields, though applicants with relevant professional experience may also be considered.

• Academic record: A competitive undergraduate transcript demonstrating readiness for graduate study.
• Supporting documents: Personal statement outlining academic and professional goals, CV, and letters of recommendation.
• Research materials: Some applicants—particularly for the research/thesis track—may be asked to submit a writing sample or research proposal.
• Standardised tests and English language: Requirements for standardised tests or proof of English proficiency vary by programme and applicant background; check the specific departmental guidelines.

Career prospects

Graduates develop strong analytical, research and communication skills that are valued across public, private and non-profit sectors. Typical career paths include:

• Policy analyst or advisor in municipal, state or federal government agencies
• Researcher or data analyst in think-tanks, research institutes and market research firms
• Programme manager, evaluator or planner in non-governmental organisations and social service agencies
• Community organiser and advocacy specialist working with civic and community organisations
• Further academic study leading to PhD-level research in social science disciplines

Why study at CUNY (The City University of New York)

CUNY offers access to a broad public research university network across New York City, providing a diverse student body and strong links to local institutions. Students benefit from faculty who are active researchers and practitioners in urban policy, social inequality and community development, and from partnerships with municipal agencies, non-profits and research centres.

The city context provides abundant opportunities for applied research, internships and fieldwork, while CUNY’s libraries and institutional resources support advanced social science scholarship. The programme’s location and institutional partnerships make it particularly suitable for those who want to combine rigorous methods training with practical experience in an urban setting.