Science, Technology and Society.
Data details: Graduation rate, gender, ethnicity, and summary are for this specific degree (6-digit CIP) from IPEDS. Salary, debt, and related financial outcomes are based on the degree category (4-digit CIP) from the College Scorecard API. ← Back to search
All data shown below (except Graduation rate, gender, ethnicity) is based on the category, not just this specific degree.
Please use your own discretion when interpreting these results. For certain degrees, a limited number of institutions report to the government's College Scorecard API, which may cause the data to be skewed or less representative of national trends. Consider these figures as informative but not definitive, and consult additional sources or advisors for important decisions.
Debt to Income Ratio
Why Science, Technology and Society. stands out: With a debt-to-income ratio of just 49.6%, graduates of this program typically enjoy manageable student loan payments compared to their first-year earnings. This low ratio means that, on average, students who complete Science, Technology and Society. can expect to pay off their student debt faster and with less financial stress than most other fields. Programs with a DTI below 0.5 are considered excellent by financial experts, making this degree a smart investment for your future.
For example, with a median salary of $41177 and average student debt of $20440, the financial outlook for Science, Technology and Society. graduates is especially strong in .
Key Insights
Science, Technology and Society. is a program that attracts motivated students who want to make an impact. Starting pay for new grads is typically $41177, and with an average debt of $20440, the debt-to-income ratio comes in at 0.5—meaning you’ll have lots of flexibility after graduation.
This program sees about 805 graduates annually, so you’ll be joining a well-established network. Whether you’re aiming for a high-paying job, a stable career, or a chance to make an impact, Science, Technology and Society. is a great foundation. Remember, your journey is shaped by the opportunities you pursue—so get involved and stay curious!
Degree Overview
Science, Technology, and Society (CIP 30.1501) is an interdisciplinary field that examines how scientific knowledge and technological innovation shape society—and how society, in turn, shapes science and technology. Rather than treating science and technology as neutral or isolated forces, this degree explores their ethical, cultural, political, economic, and historical dimensions. It is designed for students who want to understand not just what technologies do, but what they mean for people, communities, and the future.
For a degree search site, Science, Technology, and Society (often abbreviated as STS) fits students who are curious about innovation but also concerned about its consequences. It appeals to individuals interested in technology policy, ethics, communication, public engagement, sustainability, and the social impact of emerging fields like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and digital platforms. This program is especially relevant for students who want to bridge technical knowledge with human values, responsibility, and social awareness.
What Is a Science, Technology, and Society Degree?
A Science, Technology, and Society degree is an interdisciplinary program that integrates perspectives from science, engineering, sociology, philosophy, history, economics, and political science. Students study how scientific discoveries and technological systems are developed, governed, adopted, and contested within society.
Unlike traditional science or engineering degrees that focus primarily on technical skills, STS emphasizes critical analysis and context. Students learn to ask questions such as:
- Who benefits from a new technology, and who might be harmed?
- How do values and power influence scientific research?
- How should societies regulate emerging technologies?
- What ethical responsibilities do scientists and technologists have?
Universities offer STS programs to:
- Prepare students for policy, ethics, and advisory roles related to science and technology
- Train professionals who can translate complex technical issues for the public
- Develop leaders who can guide responsible innovation
- Support careers in research, education, advocacy, and communication
What Will You Learn?
Students learn to analyze scientific and technological issues through multiple lenses. You’ll develop the ability to connect technical developments with social systems, legal frameworks, and cultural norms. The focus is on critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and interdisciplinary synthesis.
Core Skills You’ll Build
Graduates typically develop skills such as:
- Critical analysis—evaluating scientific and technological claims
- Ethical reasoning—assessing moral implications of innovation
- Policy literacy—understanding how laws and regulations shape technology
- Research and synthesis—integrating insights from multiple disciplines
- Written and oral communication—explaining complex topics clearly
- Technology assessment—anticipating social impacts and risks
- Stakeholder analysis—understanding competing interests and perspectives
- Systems thinking—seeing how technology interacts with institutions and culture
Topics You May Explore
Coursework varies by institution, but commonly includes:
- History of Science and Technology: how discoveries and inventions shaped societies
- Technology Ethics: moral issues in AI, biotechnology, and data use
- Science and Public Policy: regulation, governance, and decision-making
- Risk and Uncertainty: managing technological and scientific risks
- Digital Society: social media, surveillance, and information systems
- Environmental Science and Technology: sustainability and climate-related innovation
- Innovation Studies: how new technologies emerge and spread
- Science Communication: media, public understanding, and misinformation
What Jobs Can You Get With This Degree?
A degree in Science, Technology, and Society prepares students for careers that connect technical fields with policy, communication, and ethics. Many roles value broad thinking and strong communication skills.
Common career paths include:
- Technology Policy Analyst: advising governments or organizations on tech regulation
- Ethics and Compliance Specialist: guiding responsible technology use
- Science or Technology Communicator: translating research for public audiences
- Public Affairs or Advocacy Professional: working on science-related issues
- Research Analyst: studying social impacts of technology
- Program Coordinator: managing science or innovation initiatives
- Graduate or Professional School Path: preparing for law, policy, or academic careers
Where Can You Work?
Graduates work in diverse settings where science and society intersect:
- Government agencies and regulatory bodies
- Think tanks and policy institutes
- Technology and research organizations
- Nonprofit and advocacy groups
- Universities and research centers
- Media and science communication outlets
- Corporate ethics, policy, or strategy teams
How Much Can You Earn?
Earnings depend on role, sector, and experience.
Typical ranges include:
- Entry-level policy or analyst roles: often $45,000–$65,000
- Mid-level analysts or program managers: commonly $65,000–$95,000
- Senior policy, ethics, or strategy roles: can exceed $100,000
Graduate education often expands earning potential and leadership opportunities.
Is This Degree Hard?
Science, Technology, and Society is considered moderately challenging. It emphasizes reading, writing, and critical thinking rather than advanced math or lab work. Students must be comfortable engaging with complex ideas, debates, and ethical dilemmas.
The challenge lies in integrating perspectives from multiple disciplines and forming well-supported arguments.
Who Should Consider This Degree?
This degree may be a strong fit if you:
- Are interested in technology but also its social consequences
- Enjoy discussion, analysis, and ethical debate
- Want to influence policy or public understanding of science
- Prefer interdisciplinary learning over narrow specialization
- Care about responsible innovation and social impact
How to Prepare in High School
To prepare for an STS program:
- Take science and social studies courses to build dual literacy
- Develop strong writing and critical reading skills
- Follow current debates in technology, science, and ethics
- Participate in debate, model UN, or civic engagement activities
- Practice explaining technical ideas in plain language
Science, Technology, and Society (CIP 30.1501) is a future-oriented degree for students who want to guide how innovation affects the world. It prepares graduates to ask better questions, make informed decisions, and help ensure that science and technology serve the public good.
Personality Fit (RIASEC Profile)
Official assessment tool by the U.S. Department of Labor