Online Masters in Computer Science – Data Science Track

Online Masters in Computer Science – Data Science Track

Big Data Leads to Big Demand

In the Online Masters in Computer Science program with a concentration in Data Science, you will envelop techniques and algorithms for efficient management and analysis of big data. This field employs mathematics, statistics and computer programming disciplines, and incorporates advanced techniques of data mining, machine learning, and visualization.

In particular, our Data Science degree teaches students to:   

  • Gain insight into advances in very large-scale data repositories, exploring analytical approaches to handling the five Vs – volume, velocity, variability, veracity, and value – of big data  
  • Learn the components of parallel programming based on the MapReduce paradigm within the Hadoop ecosystem  
  • Examine advanced topics in cloud environments (AWS, Google, Azure) and the economics, history, differences, and importance of architecture decision 
  • Assess concepts related to virtual private clouds (VPCs), instance types, microservices, and storage services, in addition to deeper architecture concepts 
  • Understand concepts, techniques, and applications of data warehousing and data mining, as well as advanced topics in machine learning and statistics 
  • Examine visualization as a tool for data analysis, recall, inference, and decision-making, exploring high-dimensional data spaces, and tools for visual description and presentation  
  • Use Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, and Scalable Computing to make data-driven business decisions 
36%

Data Scientist jobs openings are projected to increase by
by 36% through 2031

BLS.gov

3.3 Million

Current active job postings
in Computer Science

CompTIA, 2022

3.8 Million

Current active professionals
in the Computer Science field

BLS.gov, 2021

$131,490

The median annual wage for
a Computer Scientist

BLS.gov

#1

Data Scientist ranked as the #1 job in the U.S. for 2019

Glassdoor.com

Program Features

  • Baylor University ranks among the Top 5% of Best National Universities, 2021 - U.S. News & World Report
  • 100% online
  • Courses are 15 weeks, with three intakes per year
  • Students learn from nationally recognized faculty
  • Total credits: 30 (up to 42 with foundation courses)

Admissions Requirements  

  • 3.0 GPA in bachelor’s degree   
  • Three letters of recommendation   
  • Resume   
  • Proficient in a high-level, object-oriented programming language such as Python, C, C++, C#, or Java
     
Data Visualization

An in-depth exploration of the techniques and algorithms for creating effective visualizations based on principles from graphic design, visual art, psychology, and cognitive sciences. Explores how to better understand data, present clear findings, and tell engaging data stories.

Cybersecurity Concepts

Introduction to concepts in cybersecurity, including cryptography; instruction detection/prevention; attacking/defending; cybersecurity tools; malware and reverse engineering; defensive programming.

Is a Computer Science Degree Required to Qualify?

No. Applicants with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Physics or another closely related field are also eligible.

Cloud Computing

Programming and data storage with cloud architectures. Topics include the Apache Hadoop Ecosystem and related programming frameworks.

Am I Eligible?

Connect with one of our enrollment advisors or visit our Frequently Asked Questions Page to learn more about program eligibility.

Data Mining and Analysis

Advanced topics in Data Mining are presented. These include the pattern analysis of numerical, categorical, time, and textual data. The course focuses on algorithms for clustering and predictive modeling with special attention to extracting useful information from raw data, and methods for data validation.

Recognition

U.S. News & World Report showed the multi-faceted benefits of a Baylor University degree in its most recent rankings. The publication issued ranks including: 

Applied Data Science

This course surveys practical areas of data science using an application based approach. Additionally, students are introduced to new content and coding paradigms for developing more intelligent data processing environments. Students participate in guided projects intended to replicate the integration of scalable computing, integration of very large passive and active high-speed data sets, and new analytic approaches.

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Data Science Track Curriculum

The courses you will take in the Master of Computer Science online - Data Science track are listed below. Based on your previous education, you may need to take some foundation courses prior to beginning your core coursework. They are listed in the brochure and an enrollment advisor can help determine if they are necessary.

Important Dates

Application Deadline: Now Accepting Applications. Seating is limited.

Next Start Date: May 8th, 2023

Data Science Courses in the Online Masters in Computer Science Program

Baylor University connects promising data science students to a world-class faculty. This collaboration goes beyond theoretical exercises to real-world examples of data science problems. Master of Computer Science online candidates collaborate with students worldwide to learn about:  

  • Applied Data Science 
  • Cloud Computing 
  • Data Mining and Analysis
  • Data Visualization 

High Demand for Computer Science Roles

Texas is the second-largest market
for computer-related positions

- CompTIA, 2022

 

Job Titles in Data Science 

The Master of Computer Science online from Baylor University unlocks opportunities for career advancement. With your graduate degree in hand, you can move from research scientist to the following positions:  

  • Artificial Intelligence Research Scientist
  • Big Data Engineer
  • Cloud Engineer
  • Computer Scientist
  • Data Analyst
  • Data Architect
  • Data Engineer
  • Data Manager
  • Data Scientist
  • Database Engineer
  • Director of Data Science
  • Machine Learning Engineer
  • Senior Data Analyst
  • Senior Data Engineer

Are You Ready to be a Data Leader?  

The Master of Computer Science online connects every course to a broader approach to data science innovation. It also refines skills and analytical processes that extend beyond today’s professional demands. Your coursework and projects open your mind to problem-solving approaches helpful later in your career. Baylor University designed its Data Science track to provide a long-lasting return on investment.

A dedicated Student Success Coach helps every student navigate graduate school from admission through their final project. You can add valuable skills and knowledge from faculty with industry experience. The Master of Computer Science online also keeps student cohorts together to encourage collaboration.

Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the online Masters in Computer Science - Data Science Track?

Students with a Computer Science background typically complete the program in just over 1.5 years. Students with a non-Computer Science background typically complete the program in just over 2 years. Length to program completion may vary by student.

Is a Computer Science degree required to qualify?

No. Applicants with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or another closely related field are also eligible.

Is programming experience required?

Yes, you must be proficient in a high-level, object-oriented programming language such as Java, Python, C, C++, or C#. Programming experience that is self-taught would not apply and proficiency must be acquired via work experience or education.

Am I eligible for the program if I am a self-taught programmer without formal programming education?

Programming experience can only be acquired via education or gained through work experience. If gained through work experience, you must prove your proficiency with programming.

What if I have experience with only one of the five programming languages required?

Experience and proficiency with any one of the five (Java, Python, C, C++, or C#) is sufficient.

If I do NOT have a degree in Computer Science or something similar, which math classes must I have completed to be eligible for the program?

Calculus II AND Linear Algebra.

Where are Baylor ECS graduates employed?

Employers who have hired graduates from the Baylor School of Engineering and Computer Science include:

  • 3M
  • Amazon
  • AT&T
  • Bell Helicopter
  • Brazos Electirc
  • ExxonMobil
  • Galatia Associates
  • General Motors
  • Google
  • Headstorm
  • HP
  • IBM
  • Intel
  • L3Harris
  • Linc
  • Lockheed Martin
  • NASA
  • Northrop Grumman
  • Qualcomm
  • Raytheon
  • Rivian
  • Samsung
  • SpaceX
  • Tesla
  • U of Ireland