This certificate program focuses on mastering a variety of basic computational skills to manage and analyze data. The certificate is designed primarily for professionals in technical fields who seek to upgrade their expertise in data science. This program is also available as an option for prospective or currently enrolled master's degree students.

The coursework in this program provides an accelerated introduction to concepts in the modern analysis of data. Topics include computer packages, graphics, databases, data analytics, and their applications.

This certificate may be pursued on a part-time basis or full-time basis.

Admissions

Applicants to all graduate programs at George Mason University must meet the admission standards and application requirements for graduate study as specified in the Graduate Admission Policies section of this catalog. Applicants to this certificate should have an academic background in science, engineering, mathematics, or computer science. They should have an undergraduate degree from an institution of higher education accredited by a Mason-recognized U.S. institutional accrediting agency or international equivalent with a GPA of at least 3.00 in their last 60 credits of study. In addition, applicants should have facility in using a high-level computer programming language.

To apply, prospective students should complete the George Mason University Admissions Application, supply two copies of official transcripts from each college and graduate institution attended, and a current résumé. TOEFL scores are required for all international applicants.

Policies

For policies governing all graduate degrees, see AP.6 Graduate Policies.

Banner Code: SC-CERG-DSCI

Certificate Requirements

Total credits: 15

This certificate may be pursued on a full-or part-time basis.

Students should refer to the Admissions & Policies tab for specific policies related to this program.

Tools Courses

CSI 500Computational Science Tools3
CSI 501Introduction to Scientific Programming3
CDS 501Scientific Information and Data Visualization3
CDS 502Introduction to Scientific Data and Databases3
Total Credits12

Applications Courses

The applications courses provide content from a specific scientific domain and demonstrate the utilization of techniques within its context.

Select one from the following:3
Scientific Databases
Principles of Knowledge Mining
Social Network Analysis
Total Credits3