Learning Goals

Adopted January 2016

 

The Graduate Program in Data Science trains Master of Science students on the latest systems, tools, and algorithms to store, retrieve, process, analyze, visualize, and synthesize large data. The graduate program also meets the expectations and standards as outlined by the professional organization providing specialized accreditation for the discipline.

 

Learning Goal 1 for Students: Attain mastery of the essential aspects of practice and research in the field of data science

Assessment of student achievement of Goal 1:

  • Grades in graduate courses
  • Review by faculty of student progress with close advising and mentoring
  • A Capstone Project implementing a computer system that integrates in a coherent manner the full data cycle: from data gathering to data visualization and data synthesis aided by computer - human interactions.
  • Assessment of student's performance by committee of graduate faculty members
  • Continuation of graduate studies or placement in a professional position that requires an understanding of the norms and practices of data science, as well as competency in the technical aspects of performing the work associated in the field.

Roles of the program in helping students to achieve Goal 1:

  • Close advising to assure that students are being prepared in a coherent and academically rigorous way
  • Effective monitoring of student progress
  • Evaluations of teaching effectiveness of instructors in graduate courses
    • If effectiveness is below expectations, work with instructors to improve effectiveness
  • Periodic review of curricular offerings, degree requirements and assessment tools
    • By program faculty
    • In consultation with the office of the dean of the graduate school and/or the unit dean

 

Learning Goal 2 for Students: Prepare to be professionals in data science

Assessment of graduate student achievement of Goal 2:

  • Participation in internships and other work tailored to career goals, assessed accordingly
  • Collection of data on professional placement data or continuation of graduate studies
  • Review by external advisory committees, both inside of and external to academy.

Role of the program in helping students achieve Goal 2:

  • Host professional development and career exploration activities
  • Develop internship opportunities
  • Host external advisory committees

The Advisory Board of the Data Science Program will regularly review the structure and content of the program and the feedback received from assessments and surveys. These reviews will be used to provide the best possible education to students that meet current needs for professionals in data science.