Master’s in Data Science Degree

A master of science in data science degree from grand canyon university can prepare those with a strong aptitude for mathematical reasoning and statistical computing for a career path in data analysis the data science career path may be ideal for results-oriented professionals who are skilled in data analysis, data mining, computer programming and problem solving in order to make effective data-driven business decisions. 

• Students in the data science master’s degree program can gain a solid understanding and practical experience with the application of predictive analytics theory, principles, technical tools and industry-specific knowledge to a wide variety of problems in science, engineering and business.

This is a profession that may require data science professionals to be able to handle the entire data lifecycle: 

• Identify challenges/ask questions
• Capture data from various sources
• Interpret and organize information
• Use intelligence to develop solutions
• Apply findings to answer questions 
• Drive business strategy

The master’s degree in data science program is ideal for professionals who are interested in positioning themselves for possible career advancement, making discoveries with big data, working with new innovative technologies and pursuing research-oriented, forward-thinking leadership roles to impact business decisions. 

Benefits of Pursuing Your MS in Data Science From GCU

• Earning a STEM degree from GCU can prepare you for careers in your field. By earning your data science master’s from the College of Engineering and Technology, you will study material instilled with a Christian worldview, promoting human flourishing and intentionality while serving others as you work to become a leader in your field. The faith-integrated curriculum at GCU advocates ethical decision making. 

Earn an Online Data Science Master’s Degree

• GCU’s College of Engineering and Technology offers this MS in Data Science program online to meet the needs of adult students and working professionals. By learning through an innovative digital learning platform, you have the opportunity to study from anywhere, anytime, according to your schedule. 

Admission Requirements for GCU
MS in Data Science Topics and Coursework Covered

• In the MS in Data Science online or evening program, you will cover various topics and gain competence in areas designed to boost your knowledge of the field and set yourself up for potential advancement and opportunities.

Focus Areas
The focus areas for the master’s in data science program include:

• Predictive analytics and modeling
• Computing
• Statistics
• Business intelligence
• Machine learning
• Software tools

Core Competencies
Master’s degree in data science students will gain competencies in these domains:

• Data Science Analytics: Apply data analytics and statistical techniques to discover and deliver meaningful insights for problems, processes and decision making
• Data Science Engineering: Use engineering principles and modern computer technologies to develop new data analytics applications
• Data Management: Develop enterprise data management, protection and storage systems
• Research and Applications: Formulate research questions, design experiments, analyze results and communicate research findings
• Business Analytics: Gain knowledge in business analytics and business intelligence (BI) methods and develop business-oriented data products
• Professionalism, Ethics and Sustainability: Demonstrate ethical judgement for new data-driven business processes

The Master of Science in Data Science degree culminates in a capstone project course that provides an opportunity for you to develop an evidence-based practice project proposal that addresses a current problem, issue or concern in data science. You will have the opportunity to identify a problem amenable to research-based intervention, search literature, propose a solution and develop a plan to implement the solution, evaluate its outcome(s) and disseminate the findings. 

Career Paths for Master’s in Data Science Degree Holders
Graduates of the MS in Data Science program may take on roles within an organization such as:

• Natural sciences manager
• Actuary
• Statistician
• Data scientist
• Survey researcher
• Mathematical science teacher (postsecondary)

Potential work settings in the field of data science include: 

• Web-based retailers
• Social media companies
• Hospitals
• Primary care facilities
• Large manufacturing corporations
• Financial institutions
• Insurance companies
• Educational institutions
• Technology suppliers
• Consulting firms
• Think tanks
• Research facilities