Lewis University Online - Master of Science in Data Science Program
Lewis University Online offers a Master of Science in Data Science degree that targets the mathematics and computer science skills and concepts that are integral to data science. The program gives students a choice of two concentrations. The Computer Science concentration focuses on the design and development of computer systems and programming for processing and interpreting large datasets. The Computational Biology and Bioinformatics concentration includes coursework tailored to data science applications in healthcare analytics. Both concentrations require the completion of 36 credits, which can be accomplished in two-years of part-time enrollment by students who take one or two courses per eight-week term. The program is 100% online, and does not require any campus visits.
Lewis University Online utilizes a learning management system (LMS) that supports asynchronous instruction. This means that video lectures and other course materials are available on-demand to students 24/7. Coursework and exams must be submitted according to a schedule, but students can choose when to log on to the LMS in order to complete that work. Students can also communicate with instructors through the LMS, which also allows for interactive, peer-to-peer discussion forums.
The Master of Science in Data Science at Lewis University Online is built on a foundation of eight core courses. These include: Mathematics for Data Scientists; Concepts of Statistics; Data Mining and Analytics; Statistical Programming; Encryption and Authentication Systems; Data Visualization; Large-Scale Data Storage Systems; and Machine Learning. The Computer Science concentration incorporates three additional advanced data science courses, and a Data Mining and Analytics Project for Computer Scientists, which challenges students to create their data analysis solution using the school’s cloud computing and programming assets. Students who opt for the concentration in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics take an Introduction to Computational Biology class, followed by classes in Data Systems in the Life Sciences, and Research in Biotechnology. They then complete and present a master’s thesis on an approved research topic in the area of life sciences and analytics.
Lewis University Online is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.