Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS)
Data Science is integral to the needs and operations of almost every business sector and enables companies to leverage data to predict trends, inform decisions and make breakthroughs. Data Scientists are employed by hospitals, pharmaceutical manufacturers, financial and trading firms, sports teams, marketing agencies, and of course, tech companies. In fact, Glassdoor ranked Data Scientist as the #1 job in America in 2019, with a median base salary of $108K/year, as well as the #1 Best Paying Job Out of College in 2019.
Recognizing the market need and high employment opportunities for professionals with data science skills, Ramapo College has created the Master of Science in Data Science degree program. The program will prepare Data Science graduates, entering the job market, with sought-after skills in programming, statistics, machine learning, and data visualization, providing opportunities to pursue high-paying, high-quality jobs at some of the most influential and prestigious companies in the country.
The Master of Science (MS) degree is a 30 credit program with a signature Fieldwork Experience component. Full time students will complete their degree in two years, however students may work towards the degree part-time as well. Courses are delivered as a combination of online, hybrid, and evening in-seat format.
Current Ramapo students in Computer Science, Mathematics, Bioinformatics, or Data Science may also be eligible to complete the 4+1 MSDS program and earn their M.S. in their 5th year at Ramapo.
Data Science – (15 credits)
Computer Science – (6 credits)
Mathematics – (6 credits)
Interdisciplinary (3 credits)
To begin MSDS coursework, students must have basic skills in computer programming, statistics, and linear algebra. To remain in good academic standing, students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0.
2-Year Plan (Full-time students)
Courses are offered either in an online format or during the evenings to accommodate students currently working.
1st Semester
2nd Semester
3rd Semester
4th Semester
Students are encouraged to enroll in the summer and winter online course offerings for the above requirements when available. DATA 730 – Fieldwork Experiences, which may count towards an elective, is also frequently offered during the summer session.
Students enrolled in Computer Science, Bioinformatics, Mathematics, and Data Science undergraduate 4-year degrees may be eligible for the 4+1 MSDS program.
Amanda Beecher
Associate Professor of Mathematics
Year Joined RCNJ: 2010
Phone: (201) 684-7159
Email: abeecher@ramapo.edu
Office: G-128H
Office Hours: M 11:00-12:00 online; W 11:00-12:00 in G-128H
Program Director
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