Human Connection and Advancement Programs

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Humanities and social science programs allow students to study the human experience, better understand how it is being shaped, and advance it. Our programs offer cutting-edge research opportunities, and a skillset that is highly sought after in the workforce. Become a humanities or social science graduate student, and earn an adaptable degree from San Jose State University, located in the center of San José and in the heart of Silicon Valley.

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Humanities and Social Sciences

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Applied Anthropology, M.A.

The program equips you to apply cultural, physical anthropology, and archaeology to real-world challenges. You gain practical experience by collaborating with faculty and external organizations on hands-on projects.
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Economics, M.A.

The curriculum prepares you to take on research and policy roles in government and business. You’ll analyze the impact of markets and institutions on political and socioeconomic outcomes, while gaining the skills needed for doctoral studies.
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English, M.A.

This 30-unit research program offers seminars in American, British, and World Literature, along with literary research, rhetoric, and composition studies. You’ll learn in small classes taught by actively publishing faculty who are available to support you.
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History, M.A.

Our program offers specializations in U.S. history, Modern European history, and World history. You’ll learn from faculty with advanced degrees from top universities and strong publication records. All graduate courses are offered at night, making it ideal for teachers and working professionals.
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Philosophy, M.A.

The program explores philosophy in a global context and engages with issues relevant to its Silicon Valley setting. You’ll study under faculty recognized for both teaching and scholarship. You can choose from three degree plans: Thesis, Reading Intensive, or the Applied Philosophy Project.
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Spanish, M.A.

The program offers studies in Hispanic literature, linguistics, and culture, preparing you for doctoral studies and careers in teaching Spanish, bilingual education, international business, social services, and more.

Creative Arts & Communications

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Communication Studies, M.A

The program provides a strong foundation in communication theory and practical application, with interdisciplinary frameworks like rhetorical, critical, and quantitative methods. Designed for new graduates and mid-career professionals, it prepares you for careers in academia, teaching, Silicon Valley, or the nonprofit sector.
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Creative Writing, MFA

The program offers degrees in Creative Nonfiction, Fiction, Poetry, and Scriptwriting, along with six full in-state tuition Fellowships for first-year applicants. You’ll take writing workshops in primary and secondary genres, literature seminars, and professional training courses, with opportunities for internships.
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Mass Communications, M.A.

You’ll power Silicon Valley and beyond by telling stories, shaping messages, and launching ideas across digital, traditional, and social media. The School of Journalism and Mass Communications embraces Silicon Valley's innovative spirit, emphasizing diversity, the First Amendment, and the free flow of ideas.
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Master of Fine Arts Programs

MFA graduates say the degree provides the credentials to teach their art form at the college level and the expertise to offer insightful critiques. 菠菜网lol正规平台 offers four concentrations: Digital Media Art, Photography, Pictorial Art, and Spatial Art.
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Music Education, M.A.

The program offers a unique, three-summer structure, with 10 units each summer, allowing you to earn your master’s while continuing your work as an educator. It’s one of the most progressive music education programs at the graduate level.

Education & Credentials

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Higher Educational Leadership, M.A.

The program prepares you to become a higher education leader through an equity-minded approach, fostering transformative thinking and practice. You’ll focus on disrupting how power, including racism, classism, and sexism, intersects to create and sustain disparities in higher education opportunities.
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Multilingual and Multicultural Literacy Education, M.A.

The online program focuses on critical pedagogy and culturally sustaining literacy practices, empowering you to meet the literacy needs of all students through inclusive, linguistically responsive teaching methods.
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Multiple Subject Credential

Our program prepares you to earn a preliminary credential to teach K-8, engage in social justice practices, promote cultural literacy, support democracy, and develop content expertise for teaching in both urban and suburban schools.
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Science Education, M.S.

The program is designed for secondary science teachers and educators in informal or outdoor settings. It enhances your background in science education theory and practice, while strengthening your skills in scholarly teaching.
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Single Subject Credential

The program offers a flexible option, allowing you to customize your course sequence, schedule, and unit load. You can choose a yearlong student teaching experience at one school or split your teaching between different schools and grade levels for variety.

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