Data science comprises the concepts, techniques, tools, and body of knowledge supporting Big Data, the acquisition, management, analysis, and display of large, rapidly changing, and varied sets of information. It supports the extraction of actionable knowledge directly from data through a process of discovery, hypothesis formulation, and hypothesis testing. Data science encompasses activities ranging from collecting the raw data, processing and extracting knowledge from the data, to decision-making based on the data, and implementing a solution. The data science field presents career entry, advancement, and transition opportunities for practitioners and researchers in industry, government, and academia at various levels of expertise.

A data scientist is a practitioner who has extensive knowledge in the overlapping realms of business needs, domain knowledge, analytical skills, and software and systems engineering to manage the end-to-end data processes in the data life cycle. Such a practitioner is skilled in data management and processing, analyzing business and scientific processes, and communicating findings for effective decision-making.

The Master of Science in Data Science Program equips students with the knowledge and competencies required to become data science and analytics professionals. Applying tools and methods such as probability theory, statistical analysis, and computing, and exploring subjects such as data collection, manipulation, processing, analysis, and visualization, the students learn how to solve data-driven problems and practice analytics-driven decision-making. Furthermore, students learn how to automate these activities through cloud computing and machine learning platforms as the amount of accumulated data grows immensely.

With the exponential growth of big data, companies across various industries are looking for data scientists to inform data-driven ideas and methods for growth. Data scientists extract knowledge from data using a combination of skills from computing, mathematics, and statistics, to drive organizational decision-making. At Seton Hall, the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science is training the next generation of data scientists to address this tremendous need.

A 30-credit, hybrid program, the STEM-designated M.S. in Data Science integrates skills from computer science, mathematics, statistics, and applications to leverage the knowledge embedded in data into its curriculum. The data science programs are designed for students who have completed undergraduate degrees in science, mathematics, computer science, engineering, statistics, or economics. Students take courses both on-campus and online.

Students learn cutting-edge techniques in data science courses to analyze data from data mining, machine learning, data visualization, and cloud computing. Our data science master's program provides a rigorous curriculum that trains in practical skills needed for internships and full-time employment as data scientists.

Data Science students have the opportunity to work on real-world projects and internships made possible through the program's active relationships with such leading companies as Barnes and Noble, Google, Facebook, Celgene, Comcast, Chase, and Amazon.

The data science programs are a part of the University's Academy of Applied Analytics and Technology, which facilitates cross-disciplinary research and applications in various emerging areas, such as data analytics and technology.

What Can I Do With a Master's in Data Science?

With a STEM-designated Master's in Data Science, students are prepared to harness the power of big data and advanced analytics in today's digital world. Graduates can venture into a variety of sectors, taking on roles such as Data Scientist to extract actionable insights, Machine Learning Engineer to design predictive models, or Data Engineer to create robust data infrastructure. In the financial world, Quantitative Researchers can apply data-driven methodologies to forecast market trends. Transitioning to consulting, they might serve as Data Analytics Consultants, guiding firms on data-driven decision-making. Roles like Big Data Solutions Architect or Business Intelligence Analyst allow for the design of comprehensive data solutions or the visualization of data for strategic business decisions, respectively. For those eyeing leadership positions, becoming a Chief Data Officer offers the chance to steer an organization's entire data strategy. Furthermore, the STEM designation offers international students extended work opportunities in the United States, providing a tangible advantage in a globally competitive field.

Opportunities for International Students with a STEM-Designated M.S. in Data Science

By 2028, it is estimated that there will be more than a million jobs in the STEM field. In preparation, this STEM-designated program will equip you to utilize technology, data, and business analytics to make effective business decisions and solve complex business problems.

The STEM designation offers an additional benefit by allowing international students to apply to extend their 12-month optional practical training (OPT) by an additional 24 months.