The present invention relates to a class of acid functionalized gradient block copolymers, processes for obtaining them and to their uses including but not limited to hair fixatives, toughening agents, and adhesives. Surprisingly, the applicants have discovered the aforementioned class of acid functionalized gradient block copolymers have advantageous properties and can find utility in a wide variety of application areas. These polymers are easily prepared by sequential monomer addition (i.e., “one-pot” synthesis) and the process does not require any post polymerization modification steps. The aforementioned polymers are derived from commonly utilized monomers. The use of common monomers provides both an economic advantage and an inherent safety advantage, e.g., the common monomers are considered biocompatible.