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For the past year I've been looking into computer science programs, and contemplating applying for an MS in Computer Science as a method to utilize my policy/social science background in San Francisco. In this same time frame I've noticed a numberof MS in Analytics or Data Science programs develop, especially at top computer science schools (like UC Berkeley). As I am taking foundational courses in Java and Statistics to potentially prepare myself for these programs, I wonder what the value of such a degree would be. I already look into issues involving the evolving relationship between society and technology, and try to utilize research methods that involve collecting and analyzing social media data. Nonetheless, I feel that more and more social science research jobs end up be slated to people that have a dual social and computer science background. What are your thoughts? Will these programs provide the skills I need to get a job the overly competitive environment that is San Francisco? Here are the links to two programs I was looking into: UC Berkeley: http://datascience.berkeley.edu/ USF: https://www.usfca.edu/artsci/msan/ Thank you!

Thom, I wanted to ask you what you didn't like about practicing criminal law? Also, if you had not discovered your interest in teaching, what other paths would you have considered? I ask because I have an MA in international policy studies with an interest in law enforcement issues/crime/illicit networks. There are aspects of various legal careers that I like, but I really have no interest in law school or in becoming a lawyer. My husband is a lawyer, and while there are some interesting cases he handles (white collar crime issues and the like) the day to day, dry writing that he does just makes law school that much less appealing to me. Are there ways to work with, let's say the DA's office or the like, without being a lawyer (but not being relegated to doing admin work)? Thanks!

So I'm trying to figure out whether or not to apply to sociology programs. I had never considered sociology until a friend suggested I look into a number of programs. After looking into a few, especially those at Stanford and Berkeley, I'm intrigued. My interests are in networks (as in illicit trade networks) and social movements. Up until now I have mostly done work on international security and policy issues, which is very fitting to political science programs. And so, I am conflicted. What are the advantages and disadvantages of going into a sociology program rather than a political science or possibly criminology program? Does anyone know of professors or programs that are fitting to my interests in illicit economies and social movements? Thanks! Any help is appreciated. At least I can start to narrow down programs and schools ASAP.