Online Bachelor of Arts in Innovation in Society

Are you interested in exploring how innovation in science and technology impact society? If so, the Bachelor of Arts in innovation in society from Arizona State University may be the right choice for you. Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped to pursue a variety of career paths, including communication specialist, futurist and sustainability consultant, among others.

Learn more

Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 05/16/2024


Total classes:

Total classes: 40

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 120

Degree questions, answered.

Have questions about the Innovation in Society (BA)? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!

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Help shape the future of innovation in society

Innovation exists in all spaces from nonprofit organizations and private businesses to academia and the government. This innovation degree provides you with the knowledge needed to analyze the complex relationships between science, technology and society.

In this program, you’ll explore the artistic and humanities aspects of innovation. You’ll also gain an understanding of how advancements in science and technology change the way people live, work and experience the world. Whether you hope to launch a social enterprise, shape public policy or drive sustainable innovation, you’ll graduate prepared to drive equitable solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges.

This bachelor’s degree can be completed as part of an Accelerated Master’s program. When accepted, you can earn a master’s degree in as little as one year after completing your undergraduate degree. This opportunity saves you time and money while giving you advanced knowledge in your field. Applicable master’s degrees include:

What you’ll learn in the innovation in society BA program

 

Blending theory and practice, your courses focus on building skills in designing, implementing and evaluating responsible innovation projects. You’ll learn how to analyze the implications of emerging technologies, assess roles of governments and markets in shaping innovation, apply foresight methodologies and communicate about science and technology.

Additionally, you’ll gain an understanding of how to engage with scientists, engineers, corporations and communities to drive innovation that enhance societal values, such as:

  • Health and happiness.
  • Economic prosperity.
  • Justice and peace.
  • Privacy and security.
  • Sustainability.

What’s the difference between a BA and BS in innovation in society?

 

The BA in innovation in society degree is an ideal fit for students with a background in the humanities and social sciences. This program is built for those interested in bringing disciplines together to solve 21st century challenges.

This differs from the Bachelor of Science in innovation in society, which is designed for those looking to gain a technical perspective on ways their work can impact the world. The BS in innovation in society has a higher math requirement, as well as other technical courses.

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.”

Innovation degree courses

Courses involve synthesizing research and theory across multiple disciplines from the social and natural sciences to humanities and engineering. Through a combination of coursework, hands-on experiences and opportunities for research and internships, you’ll explore the impact of innovation on everyday life, equality, the risk landscape and more. Courses may include:


FIS 111: Welcome to the Future (CIVI)


FIS 201: Innovation in Society (HUAD OR H)


FIS 305: Ways of Knowing (L)


FIS 307: Navigating Futures (SOBE OR SB)


FIS 308: Politics, Markets and Innovation (CIVI OR SB)


FIS 480: Innovation in Society Studio


Innovation in society careers

After completing this innovation degree, you’ll have the knowledge and experience needed to work in a variety of industries, such as the arts and humanities, technology, nonprofit organizations and government agencies. Roles you can pursue range from foresight consultant and policy analyst to technology analyst and innovation consultant. You’ll also be prepared to pursue graduate and professional studies in law and many other disciplines. Additional career paths include, but aren’t limited to:

Business Analyst


Growth: 9.7 %
Salary: $95,290

Chief Sustainability Officer


Growth: -8.2 %
Salary: $189,520

Climate Change Analyst


Growth: 6.1 %
Salary: $76,480

Clinical Informatics Analyst


Growth: 9.6 %
Salary: $102,240

Human Behavior Researcher


Growth: 4.8 %
Salary: $50,470

Information Security Analyst


Growth: 31.5 %
Salary: $112,000

Inside Sales Representative


Growth: 3.7 %
Salary: $97,710

Social Services Director


Growth: 9.1 %
Salary: $74,240

Sustainability Specialist


Growth: 4.1 %
Salary: $75,990

Learn from experts in innovation management

The faculty of the School for the Future of Innovation in Society works around the world on a wide variety of projects, 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. They bring their real-world experience to bear on the design of courses and the mentoring of students.

Learn from experts in innovation management

The faculty of the School for the Future of Innovation in Society works around the world on a wide variety of projects, 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. They bring their real-world experience to bear on the design of courses and the mentoring of students.

How to apply

I am a future

You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.

Learn how to apply.

Competency requirements

Additional admission requirements

High school equivalency

Homeschool

Don't meet admission requirements?

You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.

To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.

*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.

Don't meet admission requirements?

You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.

To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.

*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.

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 9 consecutive years, ahead of Stanford and MIT.

Top 5


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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