Master's in Data Science overview
Lehigh's Data Science Graduate Program offers a rigorous curriculum that teaches the foundations of data science and the skills to apply its tools across many disciplines and career paths. For those interested in a master's in data analysis, the program is designed to provide a strong foundation in mathematics, coding, and computing with an analytical focus. It takes an interdisciplinary approach and emphasizes project-based learning. The curriculum also includes a focus on ethics. Data science is an interdisciplinary field that uses mathematical and computational methods to collect, process, and validate data, and then put it to practical use. The work of data scientists is transforming nearly every aspect of our lives across various fields, including cybersecurity, supply chains, medicine, marketing analytics, and risk analysis. These advances also raise important ethical questions about using data responsibly and addressing bias in algorithms.
Master's in Data Science highlights
Students can graduate with a master's degree in as little as 10 months, gaining a skill set that prepares them for a multitude of fields. The program is designed to position graduates in a field projected to grow by more than 30 percent by 2030. The program offers both on-campus and online options, and can be pursued on a part-time or full-time basis. Students also have opportunities for short-term research.
Data Science salary and career outlook
Career pathways in data science lead to positions at leading research and technology companies, as well as in sectors such as healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and nonprofits. Graduates are well-positioned for career opportunities in healthcare, computer engineering, business, and marketing. The program prepares students for highly sought-after roles with highly competitive salaries such as:
- Data Analyst
- Data Scientist
- ML Engineer
- Data Engineer
- Business Analyst
- Marketing Analyst
- Database Administrator
- Data Architect
- Statistician
- Public Health Analyst
Data Science program format
The program is available both on-campus and online, and can be completed on a part-time or full-time schedule. The curriculum is interdisciplinary, with a foundation in mathematics, coding, and computing, and incorporates project-based learning. A unique aspect is the multidisciplinary faculty, and the availability of electives from multiple colleges.
Data Science collaborations
The program is taught by a multidisciplinary team of faculty who leverage expertise from across multiple departments within the P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science. The curriculum includes electives from multiple colleges, which allows for an interdisciplinary approach and opportunities for students to customize their degrees to their career goals.
Data Science external funding
Both merit-based and alumni tuition scholarships are available.
Master's in Data Science admissions requirements
To be considered for admission to the master's program, candidates must hold at least a Bachelor of Science (or equivalent) degree in a related field. A complete application must include:
- A candidate's personal statement detailing motivation for graduate study, relevant background, and research experience.
- The candidate's resume summarizing background relevant to graduate study.
- Complete transcripts from each college and university attended. Unofficial copies may be uploaded initially, but official transcripts are required upon accepting an offer of admission.
- At least two (2) letters of recommendation from qualified individuals. Preference is given to letters from research advisors and professors, but letters from technical/industrial employers are also accepted.
- For international students whose first language is not English who have not studied in the US or countries where English is an official and widely spoken language, TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or Cambridge English Qualification test scores are required.
- A non-refundable application fee of $50.
- GRE test scores are not required.