The Masters of Science in Data Science and Analytics (MSDSA) is open to students with a Bachelor's degree that have a strong interest in pursuing a programming approach to solving problems using data. Data Science is useful for everyone, and anyone can learn the mathematics, statistical and programming skills needed to tell a compelling story with data, whether that be for business operations, public policy, healthcare studies, or environmental research. Students missing preparation in one or more areas can take the required prerequisite courses after being admitted into the program.
Admission Information
MS in Data Science & Analytics
- Admission Requirements
- An acceptable baccalaureate degree
- GPA of at least 3.0 in the last 30 semester (45 quarter) units attempted for majors directly related to Data Science (Statistics, Data Science, Computer Science, Data Science, Business Analytics). A GPA of a 3.2 or higher is required for other majors
- If you do not meet the GPA thresholds, your application will still be considered. Be sure to explain in your Statement of Purpose why you believe your GPA is not an accurate indicator of your ability to succeed in the MSDSA program
- A one-page "Statement of Purpose" that addresses the following questions:
- The area of study in which you wish to specialize and why
- The faculty members with whom you would like to conduct research
- Your career goals and plans for the future
- Your special preparation in and fitness for your proposed area of study
- Explanations of any problems or inconsistencies in your records or scores
- One letter of recommendation from an individual who have had a working or academic relationship with you
- Letters should address your personal characteristics, performance, experience, strengths, weaknesses, capabilities, and professional promise
- All graduate applicants, regardless of citizenship, whose primary education was principally in a language other than English, must demonstrate competency in English. For questions, refer to International Admissions & Outreach
- Approval by the Mathematics & Statistics Department and the Office of Graduate Studies or International Admissions & Outreach
- Optional:
- Completion of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
- Examples of coding experience
- Application SubmissionTo apply to the MSDSA Program, submit an application through Cal State Apply during the stated Graduate Admission deadlines.
- Application Process
The application will ask you to provide:
- Statement of Purpose (see above)
- One letter of recommendation – provide contact information for your recommender. They will be emailed instructions on submitting the letter electronically
- A current Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume
- Official transcripts from all accredited institutions attended since high school (community colleges and universities)
Optional Items. Note: Applicants with prior statistical or data science coding experience are more likely to be accepted into the program.
- A demonstration of a recent quantitative statistical analysis or data science project. We would like to see examples of your analytical process, including problem solving, coding, and explanatory writing.
- One publicly available and relevant URL that links to a project portfolio
- Test scores for the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) Aptitude Test. Test scores must be sent directly from the testing agency to the Graduate School using institution code for Chico State #4048. Allow at least six weeks for processing
