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Master of Science in

Data Science

About M.S. in Data Science

The M.S. in Data Science program helps students identify and formulate key business challenges, collect and manage data from a variety of sources, select effective analytical techniques to identify solutions, and communicate results in a clear and creative way, harnessing the power of data in decision making. Students interested in the master’s in data science may choose from two different pathways:

  • One-Year Accelerated, Coursework Only Pathway: Students may complete their full 30 credit hour master’s degree in one academic year, or three total semesters – Fall, Spring, and Summer.
  • Two-Year Thesis Pathway: With a heavy emphasis on research in your chosen area of study, the two-year thesis pathway of our graduate program is designed for students with an area of interest that can benefit from extensive study both inside the classroom and out.

Format

On Campus

Department

Data Science & Business Analytics

Credit Hours

30

Program Start

Every Fall and Spring Semester

Distinctions

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Master of Science in Data Science, graduates will have the ability to:

  1. Master contemporary data science methods, tools, and best practices.
  2. Formulate and propose data science solutions for complex real-world problems across different domains.
  3. Disseminate data science findings through various formats, including visual, oral, and written, to diverse audiences in an effective manner.

Shape the Future

The M.S. in Data Science program helps students identify and formulate key business challenges, collect and manage data from a variety of sources, select effective analytical techniques to identify solutions and communicate results in a clear and creative way, harnessing the power of data in decision making.

Careers in Data Science

Data scientists are in high demand in a wide range of industries, including information technology, finance, healthcare, insurance, energy, transportation, manufacturing, and telecommunications.

Potential Careers

  • Data Engineer
  • Cloud Engineer
  • Systems Engineer
  • Software Engineer
  • Machine Learning Specialist
  • Project Consultant
  • Research and Development Manager
  • Data Scientist
  • Research Analyst
  • Developer

Job Growth

Employment of data scientists is projected to grow 35 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 17,700 openings for data scientists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Salary Ranges

The median annual wage for data scientists was $108,020 in May 2023. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $61,070, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $184,090.

Why Florida Poly?

At Florida Poly, our small campus environment fosters a unique approach to STEM education.

Through a curriculum that progresses from freshman to senior year, emphasizing project-based learning, individualized mentorship with faculty, required internships in high-tech industries, and culminating in a senior capstone design project, students are equipped with comprehensive skills and experiences, uniquely preparing them for success in the rapidly advancing tech landscape.

The Internship Experience

At Florida Poly, internships aren’t just encouraged—they’re a fundamental part of the educational experience. Mandatory for all students, these internships provide direct engagement with high-tech industry leaders. This immersive experience not only provides practical skills but also fosters crucial connections within the industry, frequently paving the way to future employment opportunities for our graduates.

Capstone Design

Florida Poly’s capstone design course is the pinnacle of each students’ academic journey, consolidating their four years of learning into a single project. During their senior year, students in this course collaborate with peers from various fields to tackle real-world challenges supported by industry sponsors. Through this interdisciplinary approach, students not only apply theoretical concepts but also gain practical experience, preparing them for successful careers in their respective fields.

Alumni Making an Impact

Armed with the knowledge and skills gained at Florida Poly, especially through internships and capstone projects, our alumni smoothly entered thriving careers in high-tech industries. These hands-on experiences offered invaluable insights and practical expertise, enabling our alumni to innovate and excel in dynamic, leading-edge settings, influencing the trajectory of technology.

Admissions Requirements

One-Year, Coursework-Only Pathway:

  • A baccalaureate degree in a field related to your intended graduate major.
  • A minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA in degree-specific courses (2.75 for FPU students / alumni).
  • Transcripts from each postsecondary institution attended (*Waived for FPU students / alumni – the university has access to your transcripts).
  • International applicants: If your postsecondary institution(s) was located outside of the US, please provide a course by course evaluation of your transcripts for US equivalency, with GPA calculation, by an evaluator such as WES, Josef Silny, or AES.
  • A Statement of Purpose (a brief summary of your interest in the degree, as well as how it may impact your academic and professional goals).
  • Two letters of recommendation from faculty or professional supervisor (*Letters of rec are waived for FPU students / alumni).
  • International applicants: Please provide proof of English literacy by meeting the requirements listed here.

*Meeting minimum qualifications does not guarantee admission to the program.  Additional documentation may be required at the discretion of the Admission Committee.

Two Year Thesis Pathway:

Students seeking consideration to the two year thesis pathway should meet the same minimum requirements listed above for the one-year, coursework-only pathway in addition to the following:

  • An interview with the Faculty Chair of the department to which you’re seeking admission (or their designees).
  • A statement outlining any previous research, completed or ongoing projects, publications, etc.
  • Additional documentation at the discretion of the Admission Committee.

Meet the Faculty

Faculty to be listed here.

Want to be a Phoenix?

Get in touch with Admissions.