Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics

The Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics (MSDSA) program at Kennesaw State University (KSU) is a professional degree program which prepares a diverse student body to utilize cutting edge data science and analytics techniques for careers in business, industry, government, and health care. Students graduate with the essential knowledge, techniques, and tools gained from working with faculty who integrate real-world data into their courses and multiple opportunities to work directly with corporate partners.

About MSDSA Program

The MSDSA program is a 36 semester-hour graduate program designed to help students gain the skills, knowledge, and experiences they need to be practicing data scientists and analytics professionals. Our students come from wide variety of academic and professional backgrounds, but by the time they graduate all are prepared for a career in data science and analytics. Highlights of the program include:

1. Fluency in analytical programming languages such as R, Python, and SAS, all necessary for the workforce.
2. Statistical and mathematical foundations emphasized throughout the program as essential to understanding model building.
3. Working directly with companies every semester in sponsored project courses is possible. Previous sponsors include Equifax, Travelers, Southern Company, IHG, Shaw Flooring, Trusit Bank, Spanx, Atlanticus, and Coke One North America. 
4. Capstone options include internships, applied research projects, research with faculty, working in a Center for Data Science and Analytics sponsored lab, and others. 
5. Emphasis on communication of results and professional presentation skills, which is vital and helps our graduates stand out in job searches.
6. Analytics Day each fall and spring brings actively recruiting employers and industry professionals directly to the students in our programs who get to showcase their skills through poster presentations. 
7. Students can take up to 9 hours of related courses in other programs at KSU to help expand their knowledge and skills into related areas like Information Technology, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Business, Health, Social Sciences, and Education.

What can you do with a Data Science and Analytics degree?

• Statistician
• Actuarial Analyst
• Mathematician
• Biostatistician
• Statistical Epidemiologist
• Data Scientist
• Sports Analyst
• Financial Analyst
• Computer Scientist
• Data Engineer

Program Admissions Requirements

• Online Graduate Application - There is a non-refundable $60 application fee.
• Transcripts - Official transcripts from EACH college and/or university you have attended.  
• Bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 2.75 from a regionally accredited college or university

Additional Program Requirements:

• Resume or professional vitae documenting coursework, professional certifications, relevant work experience, professional activities
• Fundamental knowledge in the field is required. This knowledge can be demonstrated by relevant coursework on the transcript, by completing
  foundation courses, or by completing foundation modules

Graduate College Admission Requirements:

1. Completed online Graduate Application
2. $60 non-refundable application processing fee*
3. Official transcripts from each college or university attended. If the institution is outside the U.S., an international credential evaluation will be required. Applicants must not send international transcripts directly to Kennesaw State University.
4. Bachelor's degree from a Regionally Accredited college or university with a minimum GPA of 2.75
5. Additional requirements by program

Not all programs are available to residents in all states. Please check the institution's State Authorization and Professional Licensure website(s) to ensure you reside in an authorized state.

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges