Masters of Professional Studies (M.P.S.) in Data Science

Application Fees : US$ 50

Postgraduate Programs:

1. Academic Qualifications: International postgraduate applicants should have completed a bachelor's degree or equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall grade average of 60% or higher. Specific program prerequisites or requirements may vary.
2. English Language Proficiency: The minimum requirements for English language tests are an IELTS score of 6.5 overall or a TOEFL score of 80 (internet-based test).

Scholarships for International Students at the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC):

1. International Student Scholarships: UMBC offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students to support their educational expenses. These scholarships may be merit-based, need-based, or a combination of both. They are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, extracurricular involvement, and other criteria. International students are encouraged to check the UMBC website and contact the university's financial aid office for information on available scholarships and application processes.

2. UMBC Merit Scholarships: UMBC offers merit-based scholarships to both undergraduate and graduate international students. These scholarships are awarded to students with exceptional academic achievements, leadership qualities, and community involvement. The selection process for these scholarships is competitive, and students are typically considered based on their application materials, including academic transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.

3. Departmental Scholarships: Various departments and academic programs at UMBC may offer scholarships specifically for international students within their respective fields. These scholarships may be discipline-specific and target students who demonstrate exceptional abilities and potential in a particular area of study. International students are advised to inquire with their intended department or program about any available scholarships or funding opportunities.

4. External Scholarships: International students studying at UMBC may also be eligible for external scholarships provided by organizations, foundations, and government agencies. These scholarships can be based on various criteria such as academic excellence, leadership, community service, or specific fields of study. Students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities in their home countries or through international scholarship databases.

5. Fulbright Scholarships: UMBC participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships to international students from over 160 countries. The Fulbright scholarships support graduate study, research, and teaching assistantships at UMBC. Eligibility criteria and application processes for Fulbright scholarships may vary depending on the student's home country. Interested international students can contact the Fulbright Commission or Embassy in their home country for more information.

6. Global Ambassador Scholarships: UMBC's Global Ambassador Scholarships are designed for international students who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding on campus. These scholarships provide financial support and an opportunity for international students to engage in outreach activities, cultural programs, and campus initiatives that promote global perspectives and intercultural exchange.

7. International Education Foundation (IEF) Scholarships: The International Education Foundation offers scholarships to international students studying at UMBC. These scholarships are aimed at supporting students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership skills, and a commitment to community service. The IEF scholarships are awarded based on a competitive application process, and students are required to submit an essay and letters of recommendation.

It is important for international students to carefully review the eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and required documents for each scholarship opportunity. 

Graduates of the M.P.S. in Data Science program at UMBC are well-prepared for exciting career opportunities in a wide range of industries. 

1. Data Scientist: Graduates can pursue roles as data scientists, leveraging their expertise in statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualization. They work with large datasets to uncover patterns, generate insights, and develop predictive models that drive business strategies and decision-making.

2. Data Analyst: With their strong analytical and problem-solving skills, graduates can work as data analysts, responsible for gathering, analyzing, and interpreting data to support business operations. They derive actionable insights from data, identify trends, and communicate findings to stakeholders.

3. Big Data Engineer: Graduates with a focus on big data analytics can pursue careers as big data engineers. They design, develop, and maintain large-scale data infrastructure, ensuring the efficient storage, processing, and analysis of massive datasets.

4. Business Intelligence Analyst: Graduates can work as business intelligence analysts, providing organizations with valuable insights to guide strategic decision-making. They collect and analyze data from various sources, create reports and dashboards, and communicate findings to stakeholders.

5. Data Consultant: Some graduates may choose to work as data consultants, providing specialized expertise to organizations across industries. They offer guidance on data management strategies, develop data-driven solutions, and help businesses optimize their data processes.

As a STEM-designated program, the M.P.S. in Data Science at UMBC enhances students' career prospects by highlighting the program's focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. This designation signifies the program's alignment with industry needs and its emphasis on developing technical skills that are highly sought after by employers.