Data Science and Analytics, M.S.
The M.S. in data science and analytics provides students with the fundamental analytics background necessary to work with big and complex data sets in any discipline. The degree has applications to health, social, political, and environmental issues as well as science and technology disciplines. It provides training in key technical areas while also developing business and communication skills.
Visit the program website for more information.
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Program Overview
The program requires a minimum of 36 credits. Requisite courses, from statistics, computer science, and professional science, provide students with a strong foundation in data science. This is an applied program for the working professional.
Why Study Data Science and Analytics at Grand Valley?
- Data-related jobs are expected to grow by 11 percent from 2014 to 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- This flexible program is designed with the working professional in mind, offering evening classes.
- The program offers experiential learning through field experiences and collaborative assignments and projects.
- First-rate faculty members are trained professionals with advanced degrees in data science.
- The program features a strong emphasis in the fundamentals of data science.
Career Insights
This tool shows an overview of potential career opportunities for this major. Actual salaries, employment opportunities, and job titles may change over time.
Location & Format
Classes for graduate students in this major meet downtown on the Robert C. Pew Grand Rapids Campus.
Format:- Face To Face
Coursework
The program consists of:
- Four classes in computer information systems
- Four classes in statistics
- Three professional science classes, including an internship
- One elective course
Students are expected to complete field experiences and collaborative assignments and projects.
Application Deadline
Deadline for fall semester is July 1; winter is November 1; spring/summer is April 1. The $30 nonrefundable application fee is waived if the applicant has previously applied to GVSU.
Admission Requirements
In addition to Grand Valley's admission requirements, all students seeking the M.S. degree in data science and analytics must also meet the following requirements:
- Grade point average of 3.0 (B) from all undergraduate coursework or a satisfactory score on the GRE or GMAT test
- Resume detailing work experiences and accomplishments
- Personal statement of career goals and background experiences, including an explanation of how this program will help achieve educational and professional objectives
- Recommendations from two professional or academic references received online, addressing the candidate's potential for graduate study completion. You will provide the emails of two references in your account at gvsu.edu/gradapply and they will be sent a link to fill out for their online recommendation
- Prerequisite courses: CIS 500 or equivalent, STA 216 or equivalent
Helpful Links
For More Information
School of Computing
gvsu.edu/computing
C-2-100
Mackinac Hall
(616) 331-2060
Program Director
Paul M. Leidig, Ph.D.
(616) 331-2060
“What abilities make a data scientist successful? Think of him or her as a hybrid of data hacker, analyst, communicator, and trusted adviser. The combination is extremely powerful, and rare... A good data scientist will have many doors open to him or her, and salaries will bid upward.”
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