APPLICATION DEADLINES - Fall 2018
Priority: January 15. Applications received by this date will receive priority consideration for admission and scholarship aid.
International: March 15. Applications from non-US citizens or non-residents must be received by this date.
U.S. Residents: April 1. We will review applications received by this date, but with reduced priority for admission.
Big Data
Big Data and the resulting opportunities and challenges in business analytics, government analytics, healthcare etc. are considered to be a potential game changer for the US economy. Broad applications of Big Data are estimated to increase the annual gross domestic product of the United States by several hundred billion dollars per year by the year 2020. There is enormous need for talent to sustain this revolution in business and industry. It is estimated that by 2018 the US could face a shortage of about 150,000 people with deep analytical and data science skills, plus a shortage of ten times as many managers and analysts who are familiar with the data methodologies and applications.
Our Program
Since the Fall of 2015, the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences has been offering a Master of Science in Analytics with a concentration in Data Science degree. Instruction is provided by the Department of Computer Science and the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. The Analytics program provides students with a rigorous training in computational, mathematical, and statistical methods to prepare them for careers in data science and analytics.
Student Experience
Students in the M.S. in Analytics, concentration in Data Science program will build a solid knowledge in data analytics fundamentals and then add skills in visualization, big data computing, and machine learning. Important soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem solving techniques will be part of the training throughout. Individuals who complete the program will be able to pursue careers, especially in the Washington, D.C. area, in fields as diverse as homeland security, consumer marketing, finance, and government. The data science graduate program may also serve as a preparation for students who wish to enter a Ph.D. program in Applied Mathematics, Statistics, or Computer Science, or Economics. In addition, our instructional partnership with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory further enhances the program.
Who Should Apply
This program is appropriate for students who have recently completed degrees with significant mathematical or statistical emphasis, as well as for mid-career professionals who seek professional advancement or a shift in career track. The expected time for completing the degree as a full-time student is two years. By using transfer credit and/or taking summer courses, students may be able to complete the program in three semesters (16 months). Part-time students may take longer (up to three years). Classes will be offered in the late afternoon or evening, allowing part-time students to participate fully.