Online Master of Science in Public Interest Technology
Arizona State University’s Master of Science in public interest technology is the first degree designed to advance the public interest technology movement. In this revolutionary program, you’ll learn how to integrate public value and impact with the power of technology to advance the well-being of society. Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared to join the ranks of next-generation thinkers and socially responsible innovators.
Quick facts
Next start date: 08/21/2025
Total classes: 10
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 30
Help make technology work for the good of the many
Technology is a powerful force shaping local, national and global futures. With care and attention centered on the public interest, technological advancements can improve human rights, social justice, sustainability and environmental justice. This public interest technology master’s trains leaders whose expertise involves helping organizations interact with people as global citizens rather than simply consumers.
Upon graduating, you can assess emerging technologies, engage with community stakeholders, identify issues of public interest, develop public consensus and deploy technologies that benefit humanity. You’ll also understand how to use technology to address socio-technical challenges, such as privacy encroachment, data breaches, unsustainable practices, humanitarian crises, energy inefficiencies and more.
The skills you’ll develop
This public interest technology master’s is unique because it focuses on social responsibility, rather than emphasizing programming and other technical competencies. This includes increasing your technological fluency and ability to work alongside professionals in policy, regulatory, business and sales contexts. Additionally, you’ll develop the skills needed to:
- Complete requirement analysis and feasibility studies.
- Conduct value propositions and impact assessments.
- Construct problem definitions and engage in needs assessments.
- Consult with stakeholders and write reports.
- Create high-level designs and business cases.
- Write media releases to reach a target audience and methodologies for research across organizational types.
Who’s a good candidate for this master’s program?
Candidates with a wide variety of backgrounds can be an excellent fit for this program, from engineering and the natural sciences to the social sciences and humanities. As an applicant, you should be a risk-taker who wants to engage the public and learn about social systems. Ideal candidates also want to make positive changes in the world and believe technology is an invaluable asset.
Will my diploma say 'online'?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”
Public interest technology courses
This program encourages interdisciplinary learning across various subject areas including sustainability, engineering, computing, informatics, information technology, critical data science and more. In addition to four core public interest technology courses, you’ll take 15 credits of elective courses based on your interests. As a culmination of the program, you’ll also complete an applied project under the direction of a faculty member.
The jobs a public interest technology program prepares you for
There’s a pressing need for public interest technologists within corporations, governments and non-governmental organizations. Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped to design new systems and processes, think analytically and collaborate cross-functionally. You can pursue roles in fields such as data analysis, privacy and information security management, social and environmental justice advocacy and more. Potential career paths include, but aren’t limited to:
Learn about technology and community improvement
The School for the Future of Innovation in Society faculty works around the world on initiatives such as energy innovation, poverty alleviation, community development, food security, water access and education. They work on projects in the regions of Africa, the Middle East, Central and Southeast Asia, China, Latin America and North America, with funding from the National Science Foundation, U.S. Agency for International Development, the World Bank and other entities. Our faculty impart their real-world experience through innovative course design and student mentorship.
Learn about technology and community improvement
The School for the Future of Innovation in Society faculty works around the world on initiatives such as energy innovation, poverty alleviation, community development, food security, water access and education. They work on projects in the regions of Africa, the Middle East, Central and Southeast Asia, China, Latin America and North America, with funding from the National Science Foundation, U.S. Agency for International Development, the World Bank and other entities. Our faculty impart their real-world experience through innovative course design and student mentorship.
How to apply
Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the College of Global Futures.
Study at the most innovative university in the nation
ASU is a global university recognized for its commitment to innovation, research and high-quality academic programs. Our university has been recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report.
#1
in innovation for 10 consecutive years, ahead of Stanford and MIT.
Top 10
best online bachelor’s programs.
Top 10%
best global universities.
80%
of graduates reported that their experiences at ASU inspired them to explore new career opportunities.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
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