Distance Learning

U Wisconsin To Launch Online Master's of Data Science

• By Joshua Bolkan
• 04/29/15

The University of Wisconsin will launch an online master's degree in data science. Classes for the 12-course, 36-credit program will begin in September, pending approval from the Higher Learning Commission.

The course is the result of a collaboration between the U Wisconsin Extension and six campuses and was designed with input from industry leaders to "offer a rigorous, multidisciplinary curriculum grounded in computer science, math and statistics, management and communication," according to a news release. "Students will learn how to clean, organize, analyze and interpret large and complex data sets using the latest tools and analytical methods. Admission to the program will require a bachelor's degree and a 3.0 GPA. Aptitude tests such as the GMAT and GRE will not be required."

"Today's world is generating data at an explosive and accelerating rate," said David Schejbal, dean of UW-Extension's Division of Continuing Education, Outreach and E-Learning (CEOEL), in a prepared statement. "In Wisconsin and across the country, employers in most industries are in great need of skilled professionals with the ability to transform big data into actionable insights. We are excited to offer an online professional degree program aimed at creating tomorrow's data science leaders today."

The program is intended for students with undergraduate degrees in math, statistics, analytics, computer science, marketing or a professional background as an analyst.

"The online format is a great choice for busy adults," added Schejbal. "All course content will be provided by distinguished University of Wisconsin faculty. Their expertise, combined with UW-Extension CEOEL's award-winning instructional and media design, will ensure a rich, flexible, and engaging educational experience that prepares students for success in data science and analytics careers."