Master of Science in Integrative Social Science

at Kaplan Group - Arizona State University - Polytechnic Campus USA

The MS program in applied biological sciences offers advanced instruction in the ecology and sustainable management of natural and urban ecosystems. Rigorous programs of study involving field and laboratory work are custom-designed to apply ecological or biological principles to problems in species or ecosystem conservation. All programs culminate with the completion of an intensive, research-based thesis or applied project.

The program is supported by faculty members with backgrounds in:

• Ecological restoration
• Environmental microbiology
• Environmental stress physiology
• Desert horticulture
• Plant-fungal ecology
• Plant systematics
• Riparian and stream ecology
• Wildlife biology

The BA program in communication is a broad-based program that trains individuals to speak and write competently, manage relationships well, problem-solve effectively and understand the role and function of communication in public forums, organizational settings, relational exchanges and intercultural situations.

The curriculum provides an extensive understanding of the practical, theoretical and professional distinctions of today's field of communication. Utilizing the nationally recognized CommLabASU, students perform in-depth study of what contributes to and detracts from effective human communication, recognizing that the art of communication is far more nuanced than simple speaking and writing prowess.

Students may pursue one or more focus areas that are designed to amplify their academic and professional preparation in specific contexts.

The BS in applied mathematics is an interdisciplinary program that provides a broad and rigorous foundation in applied mathematics. It includes a foundation in computing and statistics as well as both theoretical and applied mathematics.

The program emphasizes quantitative problem-solving and critical thinking through courses that expose students to a variety of mathematical theories, techniques and applications currently used by analysts and researchers in government, industry and nonprofit organizations.

Accordingly, the program is heavy on cultural and information literacy and critical thinking. The primary goal is to produce generalists who understand the intricate interrelationship of science, technology and society and who are armed with the technical skills to change their environment.

The bachelor's degree program in science, technology and society prepares professionals and scholars for careers in the 21st century world focusing primarily, but not exclusively, on the interaction of science and technology with human systems. The program focuses on the development of the technical skills required to audit social, political and policy impacts of technological advancement and the competence required to navigate questions surrounding the future trajectory of science and technology.

The following three tracks are available: general science, technology and society; global technology and development; and science, technology and governance. Students may use the general science, technology and society track to design targeted programs of their choosing, including premedical and prelaw.

The BA program in history introduces students to a broad span of history that covers the ancient world through the modern period and extends from Europe to Latin America and the United States. In addition to learning about the origins and development of various peoples, ideas and institutions of the past, students engage in the practice of history by learning to conduct research, analyze historical evidence and formulate arguments using historiographical perspectives and methodological approaches.

The MS program in human systems engineering with a concentration in user experience research focuses on designing products that are useful, usable, desirable, easy to learn, efficient to use and easy to remember. It focuses on the research, design and validation of all system components an end user interacts with, including software user interfaces, documentation, help systems, user support, aesthetics and communication. It is an important specialization within human systems engineering with a bright job outlook.

Students may complement their education with courses in graphic information technology, technical communications and entrepreneurship to strengthen their skills in information architecture, visual design and user interface prototyping. Additionally, hands-on user experience projects in these classes help students build portfolios necessary for entry-level positions.

The MS program in technical communication teaches students how to design, produce and manage print and digital texts using traditional and developing technologies.

The curriculum provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the professional, cultural and ethical issues that shape the field; it balances theory and practice to ensure students develop the analytical abilities, technological expertise and hands-on skills necessary for success as a technical communicator.

Students complete the program as accomplished writers, editors, designers and researchers who are able to respond effectively to a range of audiences, issues and communication situations.

The W. P. Carey BS program in management prepares students to become effective managers and team leaders. Students gain theoretical and conceptual knowledge and build critical skills such as:

• Analytical research and problem-solving
• Communication
• Critical thinking
• Global applications
• Leadership
• Personal ethics and integrity
• Teamwork

The curriculum includes the fundamentals of the global economy, the world of e-business, ethics, human resource and strategic management and collaborative team skills. Throughout the program, theories and concepts of management and ethical leadership are enhanced by experiencing and testing them in skill-based exercises, case discussions and real-world, team-based project work.

The MSTech program with a concentration in management of technology is open to individuals with a technical undergraduate degree who wish to develop their leadership and management skills to complement their technical expertise. The curriculum is tailored to the needs of the student, ensuring each student obtains basic leadership and management skills.

The BA program in business with a concentration in food industry management provides students with the knowledge and skills needed for leadership roles in the global food industry.

The program has been developed in close coordination with partners in the food industry and provides the full business core plus 21 credit hours of food industry coursework.