Program Overview
The Master of Science in Data Science program provides a comprehensive foundation in applied mathematics, statistics, computer science, and their intersection. Graduates gain the theoretical knowledge, practical data analysis, and coding skills to solve complex real-world problems using massive data sets. The program offers core courses in artificial intelligence, database management, and mathematical data visualization, along with elective options and a culminating experience in either thesis or project format. Graduates are well-prepared for data scientist positions in industry and government.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Objective:
The Master of Science in Data Science program aims to provide students with a strong foundation in applied mathematics, statistics, computer science, and their intersection. The program equips graduates with the theoretical knowledge, practical data analysis, and coding skills necessary to solve complex real-world problems based on massive amounts of data and qualify for various data scientist positions in industry and government.
Outline:
Program Content and Structure:
The program consists of 36 units, including core courses, electives, and a culminating experience.
Core Courses:
- CS 156 - Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (3 units)
- CS 157A - Introduction to Database Management Systems (3 units)
- CS 200W - Graduate Technical Writing (3 units)
- CS 274 - Topics in Web Intelligence (3 units)
- MATH 164 - Mathematical Statistics (3 units)
- MATH 261A - Regression Theory and Methods (3 units)
- MATH 250 - Mathematical Data Visualization (3 units)
- MATH 252 - Cluster Analysis (3 units)
Elective Course:
Students can choose one elective course from the Department of Computer Science or the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, subject to approval from the program coordinator.
Culminating Experience:
Students can choose either Plan A (Thesis) or Plan B (Project) for their culminating experience.
Plan A (Thesis):
- MATH 297A - Preparation for Writing Project, Research Project or Thesis (3 units) or CS 297 - Preparation for Writing Project or Thesis (3 units)
- CS 299 - Master's Thesis (3 units) or MATH 299 - Master's Thesis (1-4 units)
Plan B (Project):
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
Graduates of the MS in Data Science program qualify for various data scientist positions in industry and government.
San Jose State University
Overview:
San Jose State University (SJSU) is a public university located in San Jose, California. It is known for its strong academic programs, particularly in business, engineering, and nursing. SJSU is also recognized for its commitment to student success and its location in the heart of Silicon Valley, providing students with access to numerous career opportunities.
Services Offered:
SJSU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
King Library, tutoring services, academic advising, and career counseling.Student Life:
Housing options, health and wellness services, campus safety, and student organizations.Research and Innovation:
Opportunities for student-faculty collaborations, research centers and institutes, and partnerships with industry leaders.Online Learning:
SJSU Online offers flexible and affordable programs for students with busy lifestyles.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at SJSU can expect a vibrant and diverse campus community. The university offers a variety of events, traditions, and student organizations to foster a sense of belonging and engagement. The campus is located in close proximity to Silicon Valley, providing students with access to numerous cultural and entertainment options.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Location in Silicon Valley:
Provides access to numerous career opportunities and industry connections.Strong Academic Programs:
Offers a wide range of programs, particularly in business, engineering, and nursing.Affordable Education:
Provides a high-quality education at a relatively affordable cost.Commitment to Student Success:
Offers a variety of support services to help students succeed academically and professionally.Academic Programs:
SJSU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across nine colleges:
- Business
- Education
- Engineering
- Graduate Studies
- Health and Human Sciences
- Humanities and the Arts
- Professional Education
- Science
- Social Sciences
Other:
SJSU is a highly ranked university, consistently recognized for its value, innovation, and social mobility. The university is committed to sustainability and has received numerous awards for its environmental initiatives.
Entry Requirements:
- Applicants must possess a Bachelor’s degree in the sciences or engineering from a regionally accredited institution.
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 (based on a 4.0 scale).
- Completion of all program prerequisites listed below:
- Three semesters of college-level calculus courses (differential calculus, integral calculus, multivariable calculus)
- A linear algebra course
- A discrete math course
- An upper-division calculus-based statistics course
- A probability theory course
- Two CS introductory courses on programming and data structures
- An upper-division data structures and algorithms course
- An advanced course in object-oriented programming or two semesters of statistical programming coursework
