Data Science, M.S.
Graduate Degree
Program Overview

The Master of Science in Data Science at Marshall University is designed to prepare students for the rapidly growing field of data science. This program combines rigorous coursework with hands-on experience to equip graduates with the skills needed to analyze complex data and derive actionable insights. Students can choose from three area of emphasis including computing domain, information systems and predictive analysis.

Whether you’re looking to advance your career or enter a new field, the M.S. in Data Science provides the knowledge and tools necessary to succeed.

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Program Highlights
Available Specializations

Marshall University’s Data Science, MS program allows students to specialize in areas such as artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, computational science and more.

Interdisciplinary Approach

Marshall University’s Data Science, M.S. degree combines knowledge from computer science, statistics and business to provide a well-rounded education.

High Demand Field

Data science is a rapidly growing field. There is a strong need for data scientists who are skilled in organizing and analyzing massive amounts of data. Data scientists are among the most sought-after positions with many positions requiring graduate or professional degrees.

Accelerated Program Options

Department of Computer Sciences and Electrical Engineering at Marshall University offers an accelerated path for students to obtain a bachelor’s and master’s degree on an accelerated path. It is offered as an accelerated bachelor’s plus master’s degree with:

Undergraduates accepted to an Accelerated Master’s Degree (AMD) program can begin taking graduate coursework while still in the B.S. program. These graduate credits can be taken in their senior year up to a maximum of 12 hours in place of electives. AMD will facilitate an easy and fast transition into the graduates program.

We encourage qualified undergraduates to consider doing an accelerated Master’s degree and please meet your advisor to see if you qualify for the program.

Advantages of an Accelerated Degree

  • Complete the Bachelor’s degree with up to 12 fewer credit hours, (must meet all other degree requirements for the Bachelor’s degree);
  • Begin work on the master’s degree during the senior year;
  • Complete up to 12 graduate credits at undergraduate tuition rates;
  • Earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in less time.

Eligibility Requirements for the Accelerated Master’s Degree Program

  • Must have completed at least 90 hours toward the Bachelor’s degree;
  • Must have at least a 3.30 overall undergraduate GPA;
  • Must have at least a 3.50 GPA in the major;
  • Must submit two reference letters, a personal statement, a graduate application and fee but are exempt from submitting GRE scores and a final transcript.

How to Apply

  1. During the junior or senior year, eligible students should meet with their Undergraduate Advisor and the Chair/Director of the chosen Master’s degree program to develop an AMD Plan of Study. This form is available from this Link. The completed, signed, and approved Plan of Study must be submitted to the Graduate College. Any changes to the AMD Plan of Study must be approved by the Undergraduate Advisor and Chair/Director of Graduate Studies and submitted in writing to the Dean of the Graduate College.
  2. The student’s acceptance into the AMD program is subject to the approval of the Plan of Study by the Dean of the Graduate College.
  3. Students accepted into the AMD program should apply for admission to the chosen Master’s degree program for the first semester after the Bachelor’s degree is awarded. Applications should be submitted during the last semester of the senior year.
Career Opportunities
Job opportunities in the field of data science and data analytics are rapidly growing. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for data scientists was $108,020 in May 2023 and the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated a projected 13,500 job openings in the U.S. each year through 2031. Nearly 40% of advanced data and business analyst positions require a master’s degree or Ph.D.
  • Business Intelligence (BI) Developer
  • Chief Executive Officer
  • Chief Data Officer
  • Data Analyst
  • Data Architect
  • Data Engineer
  • Director of IT
  • Enterprise Architect