M.S. in Data Science

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 58

Academic Requirements:

1. Undergraduate Degree: To be eligible for postgraduate (master's) programs at Marshall University, international students are required to hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. The minimum academic requirement is 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

2. Language Proficiency:

   • IELTS: An overall score of 6.5 with no individual band (section) score less than 6.
   • TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 80.
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 53.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105.                                                                                                                                            

3. Course by Course WES required.

Marshall University offers several scholarship opportunities to international students to help them with the cost of their education. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and other criteria. 

1. Marshall University Merit-Based Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to international students based on their academic performance. The specific criteria and the value of the scholarships may vary. Students are automatically considered for these scholarships during the admission process.

2. Intensive English Program (IEP) Scholarship: Marshall University offers scholarships to students who enroll in the Intensive English Program (IEP) to improve their English language skills before beginning their degree program. These scholarships can help reduce the cost of language preparation.

3. International Student Scholarships: These scholarships are available to both undergraduate and graduate international students. The eligibility criteria and award amounts may vary based on academic achievement and program of study.

4. Undergraduate Competitive Scholarships: Marshall University provides a range of competitive scholarships for undergraduate international students. These may be based on factors like leadership, community involvement, or specific academic achievements.

5. Graduate Assistantships: Graduate students have the opportunity to apply for assistantship positions. These positions may involve research or teaching and often include a stipend and tuition benefits.

6. External Scholarships: International students are encouraged to explore external scholarships, such as those offered by government agencies, foundations, and organizations in their home countries. Marshall University's International Student Office can provide guidance on external scholarship opportunities.

7. Honors College Scholarships: Exceptional undergraduate students may be eligible for Honors College scholarships. These scholarships are designed to support high-achieving students in their pursuit of advanced academic and research opportunities.

8. Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at Marshall University offer scholarships or assistantships specific to students in certain fields of study. Prospective graduate students should inquire within their respective departments.

9. Athletic Scholarships: International students with exceptional athletic abilities may be eligible for athletic scholarships if they are recruited to participate in Marshall University's sports programs.

It's important to note that scholarship availability and eligibility criteria can change over time.

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Data Science program is designed to prepare students for careers in the dynamic field of data science, offering them in-depth knowledge and practical experience in data analysis, machine learning, and data-driven decision-making. Whether aspiring to become data scientists, machine learning engineers, or data analysts, the program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed for successful and fulfilling careers in data science.

1. Data Scientist: Graduates of the program can become data scientists, working in a variety of industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, and e-commerce. They are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to provide actionable insights and support decision-making.

2. Machine Learning Engineer: Machine learning engineers focus on developing and implementing machine learning algorithms and models to make predictions and automate processes. They work on projects such as recommendation systems and natural language processing.

3. Data Analyst: Data analysts are experts in data collection, cleaning, and analysis. They work on translating complex data into understandable reports and visualizations to support informed decision-making.

4. Business Intelligence Analyst: Business intelligence analysts use data to identify market trends, customer behavior, and business opportunities. They create reports and dashboards to help organizations make strategic decisions.

5. Data Engineer: Data engineers are responsible for designing and maintaining data infrastructure, ensuring data availability and reliability. They work on data pipelines and data warehousing.

6. Quantitative Analyst (Quant): Quants work primarily in finance, using data analysis to model financial markets, assess risk, and develop trading strategies.

7. Database Administrator: Database administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining databases, ensuring data integrity, security, and performance.

8. Data Consultant: Data consultants work as external experts, helping organizations solve data-related problems and providing guidance on data strategy and analytics.

9. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Researcher: Graduates interested in AI can pursue careers as AI researchers, conducting research and developing AI algorithms and applications.

10. Data Privacy Officer: With the growing importance of data privacy, graduates can work as data privacy officers, ensuring that organizations comply with data protection regulations.

11. Predictive Modeler: Predictive modelers focus on building predictive models that forecast future events or trends, aiding businesses in decision-making.

12. Data Journalist: Data journalists use data to uncover and report on trends, stories, and insights, often working with media organizations.

13. Geospatial Analyst: Geospatial analysts work with geographic data, using GIS (Geographic Information Systems) to map and analyze spatial data for various applications, including urban planning and environmental analysis.

14. Healthcare Data Analyst: In the healthcare industry, data analysts can work on healthcare informatics, using data to improve patient care, optimize operations, and assess clinical outcomes.

15. Sports Data Analyst: Sports data analysts work with data to evaluate player performance, analyze game strategies, and support decision-making in the sports industry.

16. Supply Chain Analyst: Supply chain analysts use data to optimize the supply chain process, ensuring efficient production, distribution, and inventory management.

17. Government Data Analyst: Government agencies employ data analysts to work on public policy analysis, resource allocation, and data-driven decision-making.

18. Academic and Research Positions: Graduates interested in academia or research can pursue positions in universities, research institutions, or think tanks, focusing on data science research.