Online Master of Science in Data Science
Data is Everywhere. Find the Information That Matters
Study the Science of Big Data
Data analytics supports informed decision-making, fact-finding and forecasting in nearly every industry. But the science of collecting, structuring and managing datasets shapes the practice of data analytics and determines the quality of the insights that these tools provide.
Augusta University Online’s Master of Science (MS) in Data Science provides an in-depth focus on the methodology that goes into creating strong, reliable data pipelines and frameworks. The program teaches innovative approaches to tackle today’s top challenges in data science, from finding clear ways to structure, code and interpret complex datasets to using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning methods for predictive and exploratory analysis.
Are you ready to leverage big data insights to see the bigger picture? Join us at Augusta University Online.
Contact Us
AU Online
Health Sciences Campus
Suite 2300
706-721-2239
What Is an MS in Data Science?
A data science master’s program teaches you to leverage scientific approaches to organize and gather insights from big data.
What Will I Learn?
The MS in Data Science program goes beyond data tools and technology, focusing on the best practices and methods for extracting clean, solution-oriented data that supports diverse types of analysis.
AU Online’s MS in Data Science also offers elective course options in areas such as Cyber Science and Genomics, allowing you to develop specialized skills necessary for roles in business, finance, medical and public health jobs, health care and bioinformatics.
What Can You Do with an MS in Data Science?
As industry employment adapts to the rising demand for AI tools and data processing services, the demand for data scientists is expected to increase by 34 percent between 2024 and 2034, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) — making data scientist the fourth fastest-growing occupation in the U.S. Take a look at some career insights for data science roles.
Data Science Careers
Data Scientist
Daily Tasks:
- Develop scientific or mathematical models
- Analyze data to identify trends or relationships among variables
- Prepare graphics or other visual representations of information
Business Intelligence Analyst
Daily Tasks:
- Collect data about customer needs
- Analyze market or customer-related data
- Prepare analytical business reports
Clinical Data Manager
Daily Tasks:
- Develop procedures for data management
- Gather data and evaluate quality
- Analyze health-related or organizational data to identify or resolve problems
Data Science Typical Salary
The median annual salary for data scientists was $112,590 as of May 2024, according to the BLS. Check out the salaries for data scientists working in the top-employing industries.
Computer Systems Design and Related Services*
Median Annual Salary: $128,020
Management of Companies and Enterprises*
Median Annual Salary: $126,940
Scientific Research and Development Services*
Median Annual Salary: $120,090
Management, Scientific and Technical Consulting Services*
Median Annual Salary: $110,240
Insurance Carriers and Related Activities*
Median Annual Salary: $108,920
*Salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024
Curriculum & Courses
The online MS in Data Science is a 36-credit hour degree program that provides students with a strong foundation and expertise in quantitative methods, machine learning tools and data management skills for optimally visualizing, summarizing and analyzing large and complex data.
Degree Requirements
Core Courses (21 Credit Hours)
DATS 7100 - Introduction to Statistical Models (3 Credit Hours)
DATS 7510 - Programming for Data Analysis (3 Credit Hours)
DATS 7530 - Computing for Data Science (3 Credit Hours)
DATS 7760 - Data and Visual Analytics (3 Credit Hours)
DATS 7860 - Statistical and Machine Learning for Big Data (3 Credit Hours)
STAT 7630 - Applied Linear Models (3 Credit Hours)
STAT 7670 - Modern Methods of Multivariate Analysis (3 Credit Hours)
Elective Courses (Choose 3 for 9 credit hours)
CYBR 6250 - Scripting and Automation for Cybersecurity (3 Credit Hours)
CYBR 6400 - Digital Forensics (3 Credit Hours)
STAT 7750 - Introduction to Genetic Analysis (3 Credit Hours)
STAT 7850 - Omics Data Analysis (3 Credit Hours)
STAT 8150 - Advanced Genomic Data Analysis (3 Credit Hours)
Capstone Project (3 to 6 credit hours)
DATS 7900 - Capstone Project in Data Science
This course provides an opportunity for the student to integrate both technical and content knowledge into a project on a data science topic chosen by the student, and directed by a faculty member from the Division of Biostatistics and Data Science. A formal write-up and a formal oral presentation or a poster presentation are required at the conclusion of the project.
Tuition and Financial Aid
$401 per credit hour for in-state students*
36 credits
Financial Aid available
Earning a graduate degree is about more than career advancement — it’s about developing the skills to live a better, more stable life. With affordable graduate programs, we rank in the top 5 percent for increased economic mobility for low- and moderate-income students, according to the Economic Mobility Index, a tool created by the Third Way think tank.
Learn More About Financing Your Degree
*The cost per credit in the 2025-26 academic year for in-state tuition is $401, while out-of-state tuition is $1,158 per credit and out-of-country tuition is $1,192 per credit. Waivers may be available for students who do not meet the qualifications for a Georgia-resident status. Visit the Tuition Classification & Waiver Information page to see if you are eligible for in-state tuition and fees.
What Sets Our Online MS in Data Science Apart
Practical Applications of AI
The program teaches students to apply AI and machine learning concepts to large-scale datasets using modeling tools and software, all while fine-tuning strategies to achieve targeted insights from data.
Interactive Capstone Project
To bring together the knowledge and technical skills gained in the program, you’ll complete a final capstone project in a topic of your choice. You’ll work directly with faculty to support your progress throughout the project and develop a formal presentation of your findings.
Learn on Your Schedule
As a student in the program, you’ll complete core courses and electives online with no set class times, allowing you to balance your coursework with your responsibilities outside of school.
Interdisciplinary Faculty Mentorship
The program structure promotes meaningful interactions with professors from different schools and departments at Augusta University Online, allowing you to get hands-on, one-on-one training in topics of interest from subject matter experts.
Serving the CSRA
Developed to bridge a regional gap in available data science master’s programs, our online program makes innovative data science methods accessible to students across the Central Savannah River Area and beyond.The next class start date is approaching. Don't wait to apply!
Apply Now
Online MS in Data Science Admissions Requirements
To be considered for admission to the online MS in Data Science program, the following materials must be submitted with your application:
- Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended showing that you’ve earned a minimum of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. A minimum overall GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale at the baccalaureate level is required, calculated across all graduate coursework.
- Prerequisite coursework, showing at least one undergraduate calculus course.
- Three formal letters of recommendation.
- Though not required, we recommend students have adequate knowledge in linear algebra, basic statistical reasoning and coding experience in one or more programming languages
- Optional submission of official GRE exam score.
- Proof of Lawful Presence: In accordance with Board of Regents Policy 4.1.6, all applicants for admission to Augusta University are required to provide validation of lawful presence in the United States.
- Acceptance to Augusta University is conditional until lawful presence is verified.
- ALL applicants who are U.S. citizens must submit documentation that verifies their lawful presence in the United States at the time of application to admissions@augusta.edu.
- Please review the verification process for international transcripts and the English proficiency requirement
About Augusta University Online
Augusta University Online brings the tight-knit community experience and research opportunities found on campus to students across the country. Small class sizes, engaged professors, strong relationships with a multitude of professional organizations and valuable input from subject matter experts across industries allow our graduate degrees to provide students with individualized attention and practical, real-world skills. One of the country’s top universities for improving economic outcomes for low- and moderate-income graduates, Augusta University Online gives students a truly transformative degree experience that allows them to make a profound impact on their lives.
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