Course Overview

The Technology and Social Behavior (PhD) program at Northwestern University is a unique interdisciplinary doctoral program that combines expertise in communication, computer science, and social sciences. The program focuses on understanding the interplay between technology and human behavior, preparing students to address complex societal challenges through research on digital interaction, human-computer interaction, and the social implications of technology.

Key objectives include fostering innovative research in areas such as social media, online communities, and digital ethics. A distinguishing feature is its dual mentorship model, where students work with faculty from both the School of Communication and the McCormick School of Engineering, ensuring a blend of technical and social perspectives.

Career Prospects

Graduates are well-positioned for careers in academia, industry research, and policy-making roles related to technology and society. The program emphasizes both theoretical and applied research, equipping students with skills to influence technology design and social policy.

Key Faculty and Staff

Notable faculty include leading researchers in human-computer interaction and social computing, though specific names are subject to change and can be verified through the university's official department listings.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

The program benefits from access to state-of-the-art labs for user experience research and data analysis at Northwestern. Additionally, partnerships with tech industry leaders and interdisciplinary research centers at the university provide students with opportunities for real-world impact and collaboration.