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Science, Technology and Society ,BS

Science, Technology and Society, BS

Academic programs / Undergraduate degrees / Science, Technology and Society

Digital Media, Policy, Science, Social media, Society, Technological Change, Technology, cyber, digital, sociology

The rapid advancement of science and technology plays an important role in our modern global society, and charting the path forward is one of the main challenges we face. Prepare for a wide array of socially impactful careers at the forefront of the ongoing technological revolution.

Program description

The BS program in science, technology and society considers the impacts of science and technology on global and social issues. Information and communication technologies have changed the world in ways no one could have imagined 50 years ago. Everything --- from the way humans are born to how they die --- is driven by rapidly changing technologies. As these changes occur, it is important for organization managers and policymakers to understand the implications and respond accordingly.

The questions concerning how science and technology change society are highly transdisciplinary and cultural. Students learn to understand the intricate interrelationships of science, technology and society and become prepared with technical skills and knowledge to promote change. This extremely flexible program encourages students to focus on social problems with current and engaging topics such as:

  • health and economic disparities
  • housing and food insecurities
  • identity politics
  • social change
  • social and political unrest
  • technological divide

Problems of the world are complex and multidisciplinary and require a multifaceted approach. Addressing modern social problems often requires a combination of policies, sociological interventions and economic infrastructure planning. Theories from social science disciplines provide the basis for effective decision-making and problem-solving. Graduates of the program are prepared with theory and research skill sets that allow them to draw from the best of the multiple disciplines in the social sciences as they confront a technically sophisticated world.

This major is eligible for the Western Undergraduate Exchange program at the following location: Polytechnic campus. Students from Western states who select this major and campus may be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition at a rate of 150% of Arizona resident tuition plus all applicable fees. Students should click the link for more information and eligibility requirements of the WUE program.

At a glance
  • Second language requirement: No
  • First required math course: MAT 142 - College Mathematics
    OR any math course that meets the MATH designation.
  • Math intensity: Generalprogram math intensity general

Required courses (Major Map)
Concurrent program options
Students pursuing concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”) earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with their academic advisors, students can create their own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
Accelerated program options
This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years. It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree with:

Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.

Admission requirements

General university admission requirements:

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
First-year | Transfer | International | Readmission

Tuition information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Change of Major requirements

A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.

Students should visit the Change of Major form for information about how to change a major to this program.

Transfer options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU® to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and they help students save time and money in their college journey.

Global opportunities
Global experience

With more than 300 Global Education program opportunities available, science, technology and society students are able to tailor their experience to their unique interests and skill sets. Whether in a foreign country, in the U.S. or online, students build communication skills, learn to adapt and persevere, and are exposed to research and internships across the world, increasing their professional network.

Career opportunities

Graduates are prepared for graduate or professional study or careers in the public, nonprofit and governmental spheres in roles as:

  • academics
  • e-commerce analysts
  • entrepreneurs
  • political scientists
  • public relations specialists
  • science and technology directors
  • social media coordinators

Career example titles and salaries listed below are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience, geographical location, and required advanced degrees or certifications may affect pay scales.


Career *Growth *Median salary
3.3%
$128,620
2.2%
$49,230
18.3%
$77,520
6.6%
$128,020
6.1%
$67,440
3.3%
$128,620
9.1%
$74,240
8.2%
$98,560
6.7%
$85,320
* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Bright OutlookBright Outlook

Contact information
What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)?
The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) is a program in which residents of western states (other than Arizona) may be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition. See more information and eligibility requirements on the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program.

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