Program Overview
Big Data Analytics Advanced Certificate
Overview
The mass amount of data collected by industries, retailers, and organizations requires knowledgeable professionals who can collect, mine, and analyze as well as store, retrieve, and manage data. These professionals also guide the analysis, preparation, and visualization of data to aid in understanding trends, patterns, and behaviors, all of which help impact business decisions.
Big data is noted for its volume, varieties of data types, and rapid accumulation. Big data has become a catchphrase to describe data collections that are so large they are not amenable to processing or analysis using traditional database and software techniques. The advanced certificate in big data analytics is a multidisciplinary program intended for professionals with BS degrees in computing or other diverse fields–such as finance, retail, science, engineering, or manufacturing–where knowledge in data analysis is in demand.
Big Data Analytics Courses
The big data certificate features courses in the practical techniques used in exploratory data analysis and mining, as well as the approaches used to store, retrieve, and manage data in the real world. The certificate is meant for students who would like a formal qualification in big data analytics. It also allows professionals with a bachelor's degree to enhance their career opportunities and professional knowledge with targeted graduate course work in big data.
What is a Graduate Certificate?
A graduate certificate, also called an advanced certificate, is a selection of up to five graduate level courses in a particular area of study. It can serve as a stand-alone credential that provides expertise in a specific topic that enhances your professional knowledge base, or it can serve as the entry point to a master's degree. Some students complete an advanced certificate and apply those credit hours later toward a master's degree.
Curriculum
Big Data Analytics, advanced certificate, typical course sequence
- First Year
- CSCI-620 | Introduction to Big Data | 3 This course provides a broad introduction to the exploration and management of large datasets being generated and used in the modern world. First, practical techniques used in exploratory data analysis and mining are introduced; topics include data preparation, visualization, statistics for understanding data, and grouping and prediction techniques. Second, approaches used to store, retrieve, and manage data in the real world are presented; topics include traditional database systems, query languages, and data integrity and quality. Case studies will examine issues in data capture, organization, storage, retrieval, visualization, and analysis in diverse settings such as urban crime, drug research, census data, social networking, and space exploration. Big data exploration and management projects, a term paper and a presentation are required. Sufficient background in database systems and statistics is recommended. (Prerequisite: CSCI-603 or CSCI-605 with a grade of B or better or (CSCI-320 or SWEN-344). May not take and receive credit for CSCI-620 and CSCI-420. If earned credit for/or currently enrolled in CSCI-420 you will not be permitted to enroll in CSCI-620.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer).
- CSCI-720 | Big Data Analytics | 3 This course provides a graduate-level introduction to the concepts and techniques used in data mining. Topics include the knowledge discovery process; prototype development and building data mining models; current issues and application domains for data mining; and legal and ethical issues involved in collecting and mining data. Both algorithmic and application issues are emphasized to permit students to gain the knowledge needed to conduct research in data mining and apply data mining techniques in practical applications. Data mining projects, a term paper, and presentations are required. (Prerequisites: CSCI-620 or (CSCI-420 and CSCI-320) or ( and ) or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).
- Elective | 3
- Second Year
- Elective | 3
- Total Credit Hours | 12
Admissions and Financial Aid
This program is available on-campus only.
- Offered | Admit Term(s) | Application Deadline | STEM Designated
- Part‑time | Fall or Spring | Rolling | No
Application Details
To be considered for admission to the Big Data Analytics Adv. Cert. program, candidates must fulfill the following requirements:
- Complete an online graduate application.
- Submit copies of official transcript(s) (in English) of all previously completed undergraduate and graduate course work, including any transfer credit earned.
- Hold a baccalaureate degree (or US equivalent) from an accredited university or college in science, computing, engineering, or a related major. A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (or equivalent) is recommended.
- Satisfy prerequisite requirements and/or complete bridge courses prior to starting program coursework.
- Submit a current resume or curriculum vitae.
- Submit a personal statement of educational objectives.
- Submit two letters of recommendation.
- Entrance exam requirements: GRE optional for Spring 2025 and Fall 2025 applicants. No minimum score requirement.
- Submit English language test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic), if required.
English Language Test Scores
International applicants whose native language is not English must submit one of the following official English language test scores. Some international applicants may be considered for an English test requirement waiver.
- TOEFL | IELTS | PTE Academic
- 88 | 6.5 | 60
International students below the minimum requirement may be considered for conditional admission. Deaf and hard-of-hearing test takers with significant hearing loss do not need to take the listening and speaking sections for the TOEFL and IELTS. Each program requires balanced sub-scores when determining an applicant’s need for additional English language courses.
Cost and Financial Aid
An RIT graduate degree is an investment with lifelong returns. Graduate tuition varies by degree, the number of credits taken per semester, and delivery method. View the general cost of attendance or estimate the cost of your graduate degree.
A combination of sources can help fund your graduate degree. Learn how to fund your degree.
Additional Information
Prerequisites
Have college-level credit or practical experience in probability and statistics, computer programming in a high-level language, and database systems.
Program Outline
The mass amount of data collected by industries, retailers, and organizations requires knowledgeable professionals who can collect, mine, and analyze as well as store, retrieve, and manage data. These professionals also guide the analysis, preparation, and visualization of data to aid in understanding trends, patterns, and behaviors, all of which help impact business decisions.
Big data is noted for its volume, varieties of data types, and rapid accumulation. Big data has become a catchphrase to describe data collections that are so large they are not amenable to processing or analysis using traditional database and software techniques. The advanced certificate in big data analytics is a multidisciplinary program intended for professionals with BS degrees in computing or other diverse fields–such as finance, retail, science, engineering, or manufacturing–where knowledge in data analysis is in demand.
Big Data Analytics Courses
The big data certificate features courses in the practical techniques used in exploratory data analysis and mining, as well as the approaches used to store, retrieve, and manage data in the real world. The certificate is meant for students who would like a formal qualification in big data analytics. It also allows professionals with a bachelor's degree to enhance their career opportunities and professional knowledge with targeted graduate course work in big data.
What is a Graduate Certificate?
A graduate certificate, also called an advanced certificate, is a selection of up to five graduate level courses in a particular area of study. It can serve as a stand-alone credential that provides expertise in a specific topic that enhances your professional knowledge base, or it can serve as the entry point to a master's degree. Some students complete an advanced certificate and apply those credit hours later toward a master's degree.
Students are also interested in: Artificial Intelligence in Computer Science Adv. Cert., Computer Science MS
Curriculum for Big Data Analytics Adv. Cert.
Big Data Analytics, advanced certificate, typical course sequence
| Course | Cr. Hrs. | |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| CSCI-620 | Introduction to Big Data |
3 |
This course provides a broad introduction to the exploration and management of large datasets being generated and used in the modern world. First, practical techniques used in exploratory data analysis and mining are introduced; topics include data preparation, visualization, statistics for understanding data, and grouping and prediction techniques. Second, approaches used to store, retrieve, and manage data in the real world are presented; topics include traditional database systems, query languages, and data integrity and quality. Case studies will examine issues in data capture, organization, storage, retrieval, visualization, and analysis in diverse settings such as urban crime, drug research, census data, social networking, and space exploration. Big data exploration and management projects, a term paper and a presentation are required. Sufficient background in database systems and statistics is recommended. (Prerequisite: CSCI-603 or CSCI-605 with a grade of B or better or (CSCI-320 or SWEN-344). May not take and receive credit for CSCI-620 and CSCI-420. If earned credit for/or currently enrolled in CSCI-420 you will not be permitted to enroll in CSCI-620.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
| CSCI-720 | Big Data Analytics |
3 |
This course provides a graduate-level introduction to the concepts and techniques used in data mining. Topics include the knowledge discovery process; prototype development and building data mining models; current issues and application domains for data mining; and legal and ethical issues involved in collecting and mining data. Both algorithmic and application issues are emphasized to permit students to gain the knowledge needed to conduct research in data mining and apply data mining techniques in practical applications. Data mining projects, a term paper, and presentations are required. (Prerequisites: CSCI-620 or (CSCI-420 and CSCI-320) or (4003-485 and 4003-487) or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). | ||
Elective |
3 | |
| Second Year | ||
Elective |
3 | |
| Total Credit Hours | 12 |
|
Rochester Institute of Technology (Dubai)
Overview:
Rochester Institute of Technology (Dubai) is a branch campus of the renowned Rochester Institute of Technology in the United States. Located in Dubai Silicon Oasis, a special economic zone for knowledge and innovation, RIT Dubai offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, including engineering, business, computing, and design. The institution is committed to providing students with a high-quality American education in a dynamic and international setting.
Services Offered:
RIT Dubai provides a wide array of services to support student success, including:
Academic Support Center:
- Offers tutoring, study skills workshops, and other resources to enhance academic performance.
Advising Resources:
- Provides guidance on academic planning, career exploration, and personal development.
Health and Wellness:
- Offers access to healthcare services, counseling, and wellness programs.
Athletics and Recreation:
- Provides opportunities for students to participate in sports, fitness activities, and recreational programs.
Student Leadership:
- Encourages student involvement in clubs, organizations, and leadership initiatives.
Student Accommodation:
- Offers on-campus housing options for students.
Parking and Transportation:
- Provides parking facilities and transportation services for students.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
RIT Dubai fosters a vibrant and inclusive campus community where students can engage in a variety of activities and experiences, including:
Student Life at RIT Dubai:
- Offers opportunities for students to connect with peers, participate in social events, and explore cultural activities.
New Student Orientation:
- Provides a welcoming introduction to campus life and resources.
Co-op and Internship Program:
- Offers students practical work experience through co-op and internship opportunities.
Key Reasons to Study There:
American Degree:
- RIT Dubai offers a true American degree, recognized globally for its quality and rigor.
State-of-the-Art Campus:
- The campus features modern facilities and technology to support learning and research.
Co-op and Internship Program:
- Provides students with valuable work experience and career development opportunities.
Study Abroad Options:
- Offers students the chance to study at other RIT campuses or partner institutions around the world.
Global Connectivity:
- RIT Dubai is located in a dynamic and international hub, providing students with diverse perspectives and networking opportunities.
Academic Programs:
RIT Dubai offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including:
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in New Media Design
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology
- Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
- Bachelor of Science in Computing and Information Technologies
- Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
- Bachelor of Science in Marketing
- Bachelor of Science in Finance
- Bachelor of Science in Global Business Management
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and Innovation
- Masters of Science in Professional Studies: Future Foresight and Planning
- Masters of Science in Engineering Management
- Masters of Science in Mechanical Engineering
- Masters of Science in Professional Studies: Data Analytics
- Masters of Science in Professional Studies: Smart Cities
- Masters of Science in Cybersecurity
- Masters of Science in Electrical Engineering
Other:
- RIT Dubai has a strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, with dedicated labs and centers supporting student projects and research.
- The institution boasts a diverse student body representing over 75 nationalities, creating a rich and multicultural learning environment.
- RIT Dubai has a high employability rate, with over 80% of graduates securing employment within six months of graduation.
- The institution has a strong network of alumni, providing students with valuable connections and career support.
