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Science and Technology Policy, MSTP

Science and Technology Policy, MSTP

Academic programs / Graduate degrees / Science and Technology Policy, MSTP

Complexity, Data, Future, Global, Health, Innovation, Management, Policy, Science, Scientist, Solutions, Technology, ethics, government, sustainability

ASU is not currently accepting applications for this program.


Program description
Degree awarded: MSTP  Science and Technology Policy

The MSTP program distinctly prepares its graduates to have an impact in today's science and technology decision-making. It is designed to train future leaders, policymakers and analysts in tackling diverse and complex policy issues such as climate change and artificial intelligence in ways that are socially responsible and that contribute to a more just and vibrant future.

This cohort-based program attracts students of the highest caliber and can be completed in one year or over an extended period on a part-time basis. It is suited to anyone interested in a career in which they work to ensure, through responsive and effective policy development and implementation, that science and technology serve society. Students come from a wide range of backgrounds.

The program provides students with knowledge and tools to analyze and answer complex questions around science and technology policy issues, including:

  • How are science and technology influenced by the policy process?
  • What is the rightful place of scientific expertise in public policymaking?
  • What values and assumptions underlie society's current understanding of science and technology?
  • Who should make decisions about science and technology policy? Only experts? Or should laypeople also have a voice?
  • How should policymakers deal with the risks and uncertainties that come from new science and technology (e.g., biotechnology, nanotechnology, geoengineering, information technology)?
  • How can policymakers balance concerns about science and technology while maintaining innovation and international competitiveness?

Students work on topics as varied as responsible innovation, technological convergence, social and environmental sustainability, health and well-being, energy, equity, security, data privacy, infrastructure, democracy, STEM education, the role of science, and space exploration and policy. They are able to describe the historical, social and institutional foundations of science and technology policy; discuss the complexities of science and technology policy decisions, decision-making under uncertainty and the role of experts; employ effective policy communications skills and techniques; and work collaboratively and effectively with experts from different backgrounds, including scientists, engineers and elected officials.

Graduates are able to apply critical skills and methods to science and technology policy analysis, apply advanced approaches to ensure socially responsive and responsible technology innovation, and contribute to developing and implementing creative solutions to many of today's most complex challenges.

At a glance
  • STEM-OPT extension eligible: No

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.

Degree requirements

30 credit hours including the required applied project course (HSD 593)

Required Core (6 credit hours)
HSD 501 Science and Technology Policy (3)
HSD 502 Advanced Science and Technology Policy (3)

Electives (9 credit hours)

Restricted Electives (9 credit hours)

Other Requirements (3 credit hours)
HSD 591 Topic: MSTP Professional Development Seminar Series (3)

Culminating Experience (3 credit hours)
HSD 593 Applied Project (3)

Additional Curriculum Information
Restricted electives are from a list provided by the program chair.

Admission requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the College of Global Futures.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's degree or equivalent or a graduate degree from a regionally accredited college or university of recognized standing. Students are strongly encouraged to have prior relevant education, training or experience in science and technology policy; management of science, technology or innovation; or science, technology and society.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of a 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

  1. graduate admission application and application fee
  2. official transcripts
  3. three letters of recommendation
  4. resume
  5. personal statement
  6. proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

Students should see the program website for application deadlines.

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.
Application deadlines
SessionModalityDeadlineType
Session A/CIn Person 01/02Priority
Program learning outcomes

Program learning outcomes identify what a student will learn or be able to do upon completion of their program. This program has the following program outcomes:

  • Students will be able to identify and analyze science and technology policy challenges, apply policy frameworks, and develop policy insights and recommendations.
  • Students will be able to communicate science and technology policy challenges, issues and options to diverse audiences.
  • Students will be able to research and analyze the history of a public law related to science, technology or innovation, and use professional writing formats to explain how the law was implemented.
Global opportunities
Global experience

Studying abroad is possible for graduate students. There are more than 50 program opportunities available, with programs on every continent.

Faculty-directed programs tend to be the best fit for graduate students; taking courses with ASU professors over the summer or during academic breaks offers students close mentorship and professional network growth in many fields of study while they earn ASU credit. Exchange program participation is also possible with careful planning.

More information on available programs can be found on the Global Education Office website and the College of Global Futures study abroad webpage.

Career opportunities

Science and technology policy professionals are in high demand across sectors and industries, including businesses, think tanks, nongovernmental organizations, international organizations, academic institutions, as well as local, state and federal government. Skills in policy analysis and the policymaking process are valuable to businesses and institutions that deal with science and technology policy issues.

From the School for the Future of Innovation in Society's 2021 alumni employment survey, 100% of master's degree program respondents are either employed or pursuing continuing education. Of those respondents employed, 62% have jobs directly related to their degree.

Some career examples include:

  • editor of a science and technology-focused magazine or journal
  • environmental protection specialist
  • government program administrator
  • information technology specialist in the federal government and private sector
  • intelligence analyst on science and technology threats
  • official at U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
  • regulatory policy analyst
  • science and technology research analyst, program or policy analyst, or legislative analyst
  • science, technology or health care policy advisor
  • smart cities program manager
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 WRGP (Western Regional Graduate Program)?
The Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) provides a reduced tuition rate to non-resident graduate students who qualify. Visit the WRGP/WICHE webpage for more information: https://graduate.asu.edu/wiche.

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