Certificate In Social Science Data Analysis
Data analysis is the process of using statistical techniques and computing programs to discover patterns in data that inform our understanding of the world around us. In the social sciences, data analysis helps us describe social processes, illustrate group dynamics, and uncover the nature of systemic inequalities across a range of outcomes, from health and well-being to participation in social movements.
Whether the goal of our analysis is to engage in scholarly discourse, glean information that will shape public policy, or understand market dynamics in private industry, the techniques that we employ are valuable skills in the “real world.” With a solid foundation in data management, computing, and analysis, students will not only become more capable researchers, but they will also be an asset to any employer interested in improving resource allocation, increasing efficiency, or problem-solving so that they can better serve and understand their customer base or constituents.
Why Consider a Certificate in Social Science Data Analysis?
The Data Analysis Certification provides training in the skills necessary to create, manipulate, and derive useful information from datasets measuring concepts relevant to the social sciences.
A certificate in Social Science Data Analysis documents the fact that a student is knowledgeable in a variety of statistical and computing techniques that are widely used in the social sciences and related, applied fields such as public health, criminology, demography, and economics to manage and draw conclusions from quantitative data. Students who complete the required courses for the Social Science Data Analysis certificate will be able to create and manipulate both proprietary and publicly-available data assets using the R programming language, with a special emphasis on working with large-scale survey data. This certificate is primarily targeted at sociology majors, but may also be of interest to students hoping to apply statistical methods to psychology, anthropology, communication science, health and human development, linguistics, political science, public health, or economics data.
Contact Information
Program Director and Coordinator
Dr. Phil Pendergast
Arntzen Hall 509
(360) 650-3229
penderp@wwu.edu