Data Science: Computer Science Specialization - MS

Program Contact:

Graduate Program Coordinator: Taryn Sommers, SER 301D, (435) 797-2209, taryn.sommers@usu.edu

Schedule an appointment: https://studentappts.usu.edu/ramonline/BookAppt?AG=1404

Program Description

The Data Science MS gives students deep training in this fast-growing interdisciplinary field that includes the management, analysis, and visualization of complex data to make evidence-based decisions, and draws primarily from the fields of computer science and statistics. Accordingly, students in this degree program specialize in either Computer Science or Statistics. Students from both specializations will be well prepared for impactful careers in a wide range of data-reliant industries, and also for PhD programs in related fields.

The Data Science MS with a Computer Science Specialization is a graduate program that is primarily a Computer Science degree, so students need to have taken at least some coursework in Data Structures and Algorithms. This degree is available to students with a computer science undergraduate degree or adequate prior computer science and data science coursework. Students will pursue Plan A (Thesis) to achieve their degree.

This program is available in Logan at the main campus and at statewide campuses via USU's Distance Education program.

Data Science MS with a Computer Science Specialization graduates demonstrate mastery of fundamental Computer Science theory and their ability to formulate a problem, analyze it, and develop an efficient and effective solution. Graduates will be successful in their careers, finding jobs, and progressing in their field. Graduates will have excellent oral as well as written communication skills. Graduates will demonstrate a contribution of new knowledge via a thesis and through original research culminating in publication.

Admission requirements can be found on the USU School of Graduate Studies website (gradschool.usu.edu/admissions/policies). Students must also meet the minimum admission requirements for the Computer Science MS program listed below.

• C or better in CS 2420 Data Structures and Algorithms (or equivalent) at an ABET accredited University.

• Extensive experience in modern programming languages.

• Understanding of Calculus and Statistics

• 3.0 Cumulative GPA in your BS program

• Three satisfactory Letters of Recommendation from past instructors and/or employers.

Additional Information

Transcripts:

• An unofficial transcript from your university is acceptable for your application. If accepted into the program, you will have to request an official transcript be sent to the School of Graduate Studies from your university. This transcript should include your completed program(s) and the date the degree(s) was awarded.

International Students:

• A TOEFL score of 79 or an IELTS score of 6.5 overall is required.

• Applicants who have completed two years of college in one of the countries listed here, will not be required to provide additional evidence of English language proficiency via the TOEFL or IELTS. Please email GPC, Taryn Sommers taryn.sommers@usu.edu to waive this requirement after you have paid the application fee.

Additional information about the Computer Science MS program may be obtained by visiting the program website at https://engineering.usu.edu/cs/students/graduate/.