Data Science, MS

Description of Program

The Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS) is a specialized version of the MSTIM/DS program, mirroring that program, but focusing the introductory course and the capstone course specifically on innovation through study and practice in data science. This will allow students for whom the name of the degree is important to benefit from this innovative approach to studying data science.

Learning Outcomes

• Evaluate an organization’s potential for improvement in data management
• Explain concepts and arguments associated with data science
• Manage legal, ethical, and security risks in information systems
• Evaluate the scope and impact of emerging data science concepts on a local and global scale
• Formulate solutions to practical problems in data management

Basis for Admission

Admission to an NCU master’s program requires a conferred bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited academic institution or an international institution determined to be equivalent through an approved evaluation service.

Degree Requirements

The Master of Science in Data Science is a 30 credit program comprised of 12 core credits, 15 specialization credits and 3 capstone credits.

Students assume full responsibility for understanding both the foundational, specialization and capstone requirements of the program. Switching programs after completing coursework may result in reevaluation, monetary loss, loss of credit hours and/or the need to take additional credit hours. Students’ Academic and Finance Advisors can assist with any questions related to program requirements.

The University may accept a maximum of 6 semester credit hours in transfer toward the Master of Science in Data Science for graduate course work completed at an accredited college or university with a grade of “B” or better. Courses considered for transfer must mirror courses in the program. The Dean of the School Technology must approve any courses considered for transfer. See the 

Time to Completion

NCU allows 5 years to complete all 30 credit hour master’s programs. Normal time to completion for this program is 42 months.

Time to completion varies depending upon the pace in which a student completes courses and the number of transfer credits accepted. As most NCU students are working adults balancing educational, professional, and personal commitments, our Academic and Finance Advisors will work with you to develop a program schedule that works best for your needs.

The normal time disclosed above reflects the experience of students who may have entered under different program requirements. In the quest for continuous improvement, academic leadership has revised the program to optimize curriculum and pace, facilitate student learning, and improve chances for success. Therefore, the program is now designed for students enrolling today to take advantage of these revised course structures, lengths, and schedules. New students following the preferred schedule designed by the Dean for this program, and applying no transfer credits, can expect to finish in as little as 16 months.

Course Sequence

• TIM-6500 - Principles of Data Science
• TIM-6505 - Quantitative Research Design
• TIM-5020 - Databases & Business Intelligence
• TIM-6530 - Big Data Integration
• TIM-6130 - Data Mining
• TIM-6501 - Quantitative Methods for Data Analytics and Business Intelligence
• TIM-6520 - Inferential Statistics and Predictive Analysis
• TIM-6540 - Critical Analysis, Interpreting and Reporting Data
• TIM-6510 - Data Visualization
• TIM-6590 - Strategic Management of Data, Information, and Knowledge