Mathematics MA, Data Science Emphasis
Program Overview
The Mathematics MA program at UMSL offers an emphasis in data science, providing students with advanced knowledge and skills in data analysis and modeling. The program's core courses cover essential data science principles, while elective courses allow students to specialize in areas such as machine learning and statistical computing. Graduates are prepared for careers as data scientists, analysts, and other data-driven professionals in various industries. The program employs interactive lectures, hands-on labs, and guided research to deliver its curriculum.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Mathematics MA program at UMSL offers an emphasis in data science, designed for individuals with a strong foundation in mathematics or a related field with significant mathematical content. The program aims to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in data science, preparing them for careers in industries that leverage data analysis and modeling.
Objective:
The program's objective is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of data science principles and techniques, enabling them to analyze, interpret, and model data effectively. Graduates will be equipped to apply their knowledge to solve real-world problems in various fields.
Outline:
- Data-Science Core Courses (12 credit hours):
- Exploratory Data Analysis with R
- Mathematical Statistics I
- Mathematical Statistics II
- Nonlinear Optimization
- Statistical Methods in Learning and Modeling
- Elective Courses (15 credit hours):
- Bayesian Statistical Methods
- Introduction to Stochastic Processes
- Scientific Computation
- High-dimensional Data Analysis
- Statistical Computing
- Topics in Statistics and its Applications
- Topics in Computation
- Advanced Topics in Nonlinear Optimization
- Machine Learning
- Data Mining
Assessment:
The program uses various assessment methods to evaluate student learning and progress:
- Coursework: Regular assignments, quizzes, and exams within each course
- Projects: Practical projects that require students to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world data analysis problems
- Thesis (optional): For students pursuing the thesis option, a written thesis and oral defense are required.
Teaching:
The program employs a combination of teaching methods to deliver its curriculum:
- Interactive Lectures: Faculty members engage students through lectures that introduce concepts, theories, and techniques.
- Hands-on Labs: Practical laboratory sessions allow students to apply their knowledge and develop their analytical skills using real-world datasets.
- Guided Research: Students have the opportunity to work closely with faculty mentors on research projects, gaining hands-on experience in data science.
Careers:
The Mathematics MA degree with a data science emphasis prepares graduates for a wide range of career opportunities in data-driven industries, including:
- Data Scientist
- Data Analyst
- Statistician
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Data Science Consultant Graduates are qualified to work in various sectors, including finance, healthcare, technology, manufacturing, and government agencies.
University of Missouri St. Louis
Overview:
University of Missouri St. Louis (UMSL) is a public research university located in St. Louis, Missouri. It is the largest university in the St. Louis metropolitan area and boasts a diverse student body. UMSL offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and professional programs, with a focus on affordability and accessibility.
Services Offered:
UMSL provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
Academic advising, tutoring, and writing centers.Career Services:
Career counseling, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.Health, Counseling, and Disability Access:
Counseling services, health services, and disability support.Residential Life:
On-campus housing options and residential life programs.Student Involvement:
Clubs, organizations, and volunteer opportunities.Veterans Services:
Support and resources for veteran students.Student Life and Campus Experience:
UMSL offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a variety of activities, including:
Athletics:
UMSL is home to the Tritons, who compete in NCAA Division II athletics.Performing Arts:
The Touhill Performing Arts Center hosts a variety of performances and events.Student Organizations:
Over 200 student organizations cater to diverse interests.Campus Events:
UMSL hosts numerous events throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and festivals.Key Reasons to Study There:
Affordability:
UMSL is ranked #1 in Missouri for affordability.Accessibility:
UMSL offers a variety of flexible learning options, including online and evening programs.Research Opportunities:
UMSL is a research-intensive university with a strong focus on community engagement.Location:
UMSL is located in the heart of St. Louis, providing access to a vibrant city and a wealth of cultural and historical attractions.Alumni Network:
UMSL has a large and active alumni network, providing valuable connections for students.Academic Programs:
UMSL offers over 50 undergraduate degrees and numerous graduate programs across a variety of disciplines, including:
Arts and Sciences:
Biology, Chemistry, English, History, Mathematics, Psychology, and more.Business Administration:
Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Management, and more.Education:
Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Special Education, and more.Engineering:
Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and more.Nursing:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).Optometry:
Doctor of Optometry (OD).Social Work:
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW).Other:
UMSL is committed to transforming its campus and the surrounding region through strategic initiatives. The university is investing in new facilities and programs to enhance the student experience and contribute to the economic and social well-being of the St. Louis community.
Entry Requirements:
Applicants must have at least a bachelor's degree in mathematics or in a field with significant mathematical content. Examples of such fields include computer science, data science, economics, engineering and physics. An applicant’s record should demonstrate superior achievement in undergraduate mathematics. Individuals may apply for direct admission to either the M.A. or Ph.D. program. Candidates for the M.A. degree may choose an emphasis in mathematics or data science. Students in the M.A. program who want to transfer to the Ph.D. program upon successful completion of 15 credit hours must fill out a new application through Graduate Admissions. Students intending to enter the Ph.D. program must have a working ability in modern programming technologies. A student with a deficiency in this area may be required to take courses at the undergraduate level in computer science. Applicants for the Ph.D. program must, in addition, submit three letters of recommendation and scores from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) general aptitude test.
