Master of Science in Data Science and Information Systems 

Program Description
Graduates from the Master of Science in Data Science and Information Systems (MSDSIS) will be equipped with the latest tools and analytical methods necessary to work with small-scale, large-scale, and high-dimensional data. Students will learn how to analyze, manipulate, interpret, and configure data to derive insights from complex and unstructured data. Students will learn how to use available tools and methods to tackle many vexing problems faced by individuals, corporations, non-governmental organizations, and federal, state, and local governments. Graduates will be prepared to take the industry-approved certification exams in data science and artificial intelligence to become a Certified Data Science Practitioner (CDSP) and Certified Artificial Intelligence Practitioner (CAIP). The School of Computer Science and Information Systems offers applicants the option to complete the full MSDSIS degree or earn a graduate certificate by taking only three courses.

Admission Requirements

The admission requirement for the MSDSIS in Data Science and Information Systems program is a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in computer science, information systems, or a related field and a command of the English Language. Students seeking admission into the MSDSIS program who do not have the preferred bachelor’s must demonstrate the required proficiency in computer or information systems (e.g. coursework, a relevant minor in their degree, or a certificate in addition to a bachelor’s degree).

Program Courses

Completing the MSDSIS degree program requires taking 30 credit hours of course work including six (6) credit hours of a research thesis. The MSDSIS is comprised of a set of required graduate courses and two areas of concentration: (i) Data Science and Cybersecurity and (ii) Big Data Application and Utilization. As a bonus, students will automatically earn a Certificate in Data Science and Cybersecurity and a Certificate in Big Data Application and Utilization on their journey toward completing their MSDSIS. With the exception of HUMA 500 and HUMA 580, which are 6 credits each and 8 weeks long, all the program courses are 3 credits and 5 weeks long. The MSDSIS is designed as a two-year program but can be completed in one year, as shown below.