Social Research and Public Policy
About This Programme
Empirical social research applied to public policy and society.
Course Highlights
- Social-science theory and rigorous methods applied to real policy
- Four thematic areas across research methods, global processes, policy and society
- Alumni to Johns Hopkins, Oxford and the Hertie School
What You'll Study
Studied full-time over four years on the Saadiyat Island campus, combining the NYUAD Core Curriculum, major coursework and electives, up to two semesters of Study Away across NYU's global network, and a required senior Capstone.
Foundations
Quantitative and qualitative methods for evidence-based policy analysis.
- Statistics for the Social and Behavioral Sciences
- Introduction to the Study of Society
- SPET foundation
- SPEH foundation
Thematic Requirements
Two courses in each of four thematic areas.
- Research Methods
- Social Structure and Global Processes
- Public Policy and Institutions
- Society and Culture
Senior Capstone
A capstone seminar and project.
- Capstone Seminar and Project
Careers
Prepares graduates for careers in industry, academia, private foundations and local and international NGOs, plus public service, urban planning and community action. Named employers include Google, PwC, UNICEF and the Department of Community Development Abu Dhabi; graduate destinations include Johns Hopkins, Oxford, Tsinghua and the Hertie School of Governance.
Programme Details
Award
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Start Date
September 2026
Duration
4 years
Qualification
Bachelors
Subject Area
Social Sciences
Study Pattern
Full time
Delivery Format
On campus
Tuition Fee
AED 251,838/yr
USD 68,574 as published, converted at the pegged rate of 3.6725
Apply through the Common Application. NYU Abu Dhabi awards need-based institutional grants, with need calculated from the CSS Profile. Published tuition is USD 68,574 per year (2026-27), the same for every undergraduate major; most students pay less through need-based aid.