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Master of Science in Applied Data Science (Online)

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Applied data science is an engaging career path for those seeking to be leaders in a fast-paced world where information and technology are changing the ability for organizations to be more strategic in their operations.

Why Study Applied Data Science at Eastern?

Students in Eastern Connecticut State University’s (Eastern) online Master of Science in Applied Data Science program explore a robust curriculum designed to empower them to make lasting contributions in an increasingly data-centric world. This includes the study of big data management, machine learning techniques, database modeling, and visualization design principles, among other relevant topics – including industry-standard programming languages such as R, Python, and SQL.

Featured Faculty

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Dr. Garret M. Dancik

Professor and Department Chair, Computer Science Program Coordinator

Dr. Dancik is interested in various aspects of data science, with a focus on applications in bioinformatics and computational biology. His research involves applying statistical, mathematical and computational models to answer biological questions and to gain insight into biological systems. His current work focuses on the identification of genomic biomarkers in cancer and methods for mining biomedical literature. Dr. Dancik earned an M.S. in Statistics, and a Ph.D. in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology from Iowa State University.

Image of Dr. Marsha Davis

Dr. Marsha Davis

Professor and Department Chair, Mathematical Sciences Program Faculty

Dr. Davis received her Ph.D. in Statistics from the University of Connecticut. Dr. Davis is interested in curriculum development and was instrumental in the creation of the Data Science program. She is the chief content consultant and author for Against All Odds: Inside Statistics, part of the Annenberg Learner Series. Dr. Davis is also the recipient of the Distinguished Professor award at Eastern.

Image of Dr. Xing Liu

Dr. Xing Liu

Professor and Associate Chair, Education Program Faculty

Dr. Liu received his Ph.D. in measurement, evaluation and assessment in educational psychology from the University of Connecticut. His research interests include categorical data analysis, multilevel modeling, propensity score methods, data science and Bayesian methods. His major publications focus on advanced statistical models. His articles have been recognized among the most popular papers published in the Journal of Modern Applied Statistical Methods (JMASM). Dr. Liu is the recipient of the Excellence Award in Creativity/Scholarship at Eastern.

Who Should Apply

Developing your skills in the online Master of Science in Applied Data Science program can help you prepare to excel in your current role or seek new professional opportunities. By pursuing this advanced degree, students position themselves at the forefront of a dynamic field where they can explore cutting-edge methodologies, harness the power of artificial intelligence and machine learning and translate raw data into tangible solutions. The potential career opportunities are limitless, from pioneering groundbreaking innovations to optimizing strategies and processes within organizations.

Career Opportunities

  • Data Scientist
  • Data Analyst
  • Data Engineer
  • Machine Learning Engineer
  • Business Analyst

Career Outlook

  • 35% Projected job growth (2022-2032)*
  • 17,700 Projected job openings per year (2022-2032)*
  • $103,500 Median annual salary (as of 2022)*

*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Data Scientists, on the internet at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/math/data-scientists.htm (visited September 6, 2023).
National long-term projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions, and do not guarantee actual job growth. Degree program options do not guarantee career or salary outcomes. Students should conduct independent research for specific employment information.

Curriculum

Online Student Experience

Eastern’s online applied data science program is designed for professionals wanting to expand their career potential while earning a comprehensive education on a schedule that fits around their lives.

  • 100% Online Courses: Lectures are recorded so students can watch them on their schedule. Live components are also offered, including group discussions and faculty office hours. All coursework can be completed online.
  • Quality Education: Course curriculum is designed to prepare individuals for today’s fast-paced data science industry by teaching the latest theoretical knowledge and technical skills implemented at leading organizations.
  • Expert Faculty: Students receive personalized instruction from data science experts. Eastern’s renowned faculty includes active researchers who want to inspire students to pursue innovation in the field.

Applied Data Science Courses

Students must earn 30 credits by successfully completing 10 courses. This includes the seven (7) core courses, two (2) special topics courses (DSC 508) and one (1) Practicum (DSC 509) or one (1) special topics course and two (2) Practicums. DSC 508 may be taken more than once on different topics and DSC 509 may be taken twice.

Core Courses (21 Credits)
  • DSC 501: Introduction to Data Science
  • DSC 502: Python for Data Science
  • DSC 503: Applied Statistical Methods for Data Science
  • DSC 504: Communicating with Data
  • DSC 505: Databases and Big Data Systems
  • DSC 506: Applied Machine Learning
  • DSC 507: Data Visualization
Culminating Experience (9 Credits)
  • DSC 508: Special Topics in Data Science
  • DSC 509: Data Science Practicum

Program Requirements

You must provide evidence of having earned a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 2.7 GPA requirement. Work experience will be part of the assessment for students if their GPA is below 2.7.

  • A completed application. Includes a $50 non-refundable application fee.
  • Recommendations from two references. Two recommendation surveys completed by individuals knowledgeable about the applicant’s abilities to complete graduate work.
  • Official college transcript(s) for all non-Eastern colleges/universities attended.
  • Personal/Philosophy statement, explaining your professional goals. Personal statements can be uploaded as supplemental items in the online application system.
  • A résumé/CV addressing your professional history, educational, and career interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Eastern is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).

  • The online cost per credit hour rate is set at $714 with a per semester fee of $60. Supplemental material including textbooks must be purchased separately.

  • As an online student with Eastern, you should expect to devote 12-16 hours per week towards earning your degree. This includes watching your pre-recorded lectures and completing relevant coursework. Additional time may be spent participating in online discussions or meeting with faculty members during their office hours.

  • Yes, students who qualify may be able to receive support for their Eastern graduate degree program. Potential options include student loans, military savings, veteran’s benefits and employer tuition assistance.

  • Eastern’s online programs have no application deadline. Three (3) start dates are offered each year and it is recommended that applications be submitted at least six (6) weeks in advance of a student’s preferred start date.

  • Completion of a college-level statistics course is required in order to apply to Eastern’s program.

  • Potential areas where you can apply your graduate studies include business, finance, healthcare, sports, entertainment, education, and a range of sciences – from climate science to political science, and more.