Social Data Analytics
Penn State’s bachelor of science in Social Data Analytics (SoDA) teaches students to use the increasingly vast stores of information generated from social media, mobile devices, and other technologies that capture moment-to-moment changes in human behavior. Students learn data analysis and AI-powered techniques and how to apply them to develop reliable answers to questions about the social and political world.
Degree Types: Bachelor of Science
Explore Interests Related to Social Data Analytics
Degree Options
Popular Double Majors or Minors
- Data Science
- Political Science
- Computer Science
- Statistics
About the Program
Why should I pursue this degree?
You might like this program if…
- You want to develop data analytics skills to solve real-world problems in the political, social, and economic arenas. The Social Data Analytics major combines social science, computer science, statistics, and visual communication to prepare students to use “big data”—effectively and ethically—to improve how people live and work together.
Businesses and governments increasingly need employees who can handle, analyze, and communicate with large and complex datasets, who also understand how to use AI responsibly. The SoDA major combines the technical skills of a data science degree with the social science knowledge to apply those skills to real problems. This unique combination prepares graduates for careers in data analytics, AI-driven research, public policy, technology, consulting, and beyond.
Transferable Skills
- Data Analysis
- Critical Thinking
- Analytical Skills
- Organization and Attention to Detail
- Social Media and Marketing
Coursework
Opportunities to explore the following topics:
- Data and Design
- Data Privacy and Security
- Data Science through Statistical Reasoning and Computation
- Quantitative Political Analysis
Out-of-Classroom Experiences
Internships
- Traveler’s Insurance
- Nittany AI Alliance
- The Boeing Company
- Nittany AI Alliance
- Minitab, LLC
- Social Enterprise Institute
Education Abroad Destinations
France
Germany
Italy
Spain
United Kingdom
Career Paths
Continuing Education
- Graduate school to study management, statistics, public policy, government affairs, and data analytics
Job Titles
- Digital Strategist
- Database Developer
- Marketing Associate
- Financial Analyst
- Data Analyst
- Creative Director
- Brand Manager
- Content Curator
- Professor
Industries
Agriculture, Banking, Business Analysis, Consulting, Healthcare, Political/Campaign Organization, Research
Employers
- IBM
- Meta
- PwC
- KMPG
- Accenture
- Deloitte
- Amazon
- Higher Education
Have questions about this program?
Future students, contact the Liberal Arts Recruitment Team.
Current students, contact your academic adviser.
This program is housed
in the Department of Political Science
at Penn State University Park.