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

University-wide admissions policies can be found in the Graduate Admissions Policies section of this catalog. International students and students having earned international degrees should also refer to Admission of International Students for additional requirements.

Eligibility

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.

Application Requirements

To apply for this certificate, prospective students should submit the George Mason University Admissions Application and its required supplemental documentation.

The GRE is not required for admission into this certificate.

Policies

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

Transferring Previous Graduate Credit into this Certificate

Previously earned and relevant graduate credits may be eligible for transfer into this certificate; details can be found in the Credit by Exam or Transfer section of this catalog.

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 certificate.

Tools Courses

CSI 500Computational Science Tools3
CSI 501Computational Science 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