The University of Minnesota (UMN), Twin Cities, is one of the most renowned public institutes in the United States of America (USA). Established in 1851, this university consists of five specialized colleges on its enormous 1,150 acres of campus.
Moreover, UMN is ranked 186 globally by QS World University Rankings and stands 68 amongst US national universities. This top position is a clear testament to the university’s high academic standards.
At this time, you can explore over 130 research programs at UMN. Amongst these options, the MS in Data Science at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities is one of the prominent choices.
Read the following post to acquire all the information about the Data Science Master’s program and know the reasons behind its popularity.
About MS in Data Science at the University of Minnesota
The MS in Data Science course falls under the Computer Science and Information Systems domain. As per the latest QS world subject rankings, UMN is positioned in the 201 – 250 range for this subject category.
The MS in Data Science at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities program is a two-year course. This program focuses on two significant aspects:
Big data
Analysis
So, overall, the program is traditional and includes research, project, and poster presentation opportunities.
Modules
Like most post-graduate programs, the MS in Data Science course consists of mandatory and elective modules. This section explains segregation.
Compulsory
The UMN makes three tracks mandatory to complete the course requirements. Each of the tracks carries a weightage of six credits. Here’s a look at the sub-domains:
Statistics
Algorithmics
Infrastructure and large-scale computing
It is vital to note that each sub-domain contains two tiers — Tier I and Tier II courses. You can choose two subjects under each track.
So, the compulsory modules provide reasonable flexibility to customize your post-graduate course. Still, a separate Data Science Colloquium is compulsory to complete the program.
Optional
You can select three elective courses to complete the entire academic curriculum. Some notable subjects under this section are:
Programming Languages
Advanced Algorithms and Data Structures
Security and Privacy in Computing
Introduction to Network Science
Urban Mobility & Accessibility
In addition to the above courses, you can explore a wide array of other subjects at the UMN.
Specialization
The MS in Data Science at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities is a program focused on Big Data technology. This course includes valuable content on cutting-edge methods and techniques used in data analysis and computation.
Academic Cycle
The MS in Data Science at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities comprises 31 credits. Here’s the detailed segregation of the credits:
Mandatory tracks: 18 credits
Elective modules: 09 credits
Capstone project: 03 credits
Research colloquium: 01 credit
Besides, you need to take a minimum of 20 credits after admission at UMN Twin Cities. The curriculum is divided into semesters with appropriate breaks in between.
Eligibility Requirements
Like most USA institutes, acquiring admission to the MS course requires you to become eligible in two facets — academic and language proficiency.
Academic
You need to clear at least a four-year Bachelor’s course from a recognized institute. This program must be related to Computer Science, Maths, Statistics, Engineering, or another relevant domain.
Also, the minimum Bachelor’s GPA requirement for admissions is 3.5 (or similar equivalent grading).
English Language Proficiency
You should choose an examination of your preference to prove your linguistic proficiency. Here are the options of the tests with their required minimum scores:
TOEFL: 79
IELTS: 6.5
PTE Academic: 59
Cambridge C1 Advanced: 180
So, aim to score top-notch grades in any of the above tests.
Admissions for MS in Data Science at University of Minnesota
It is essential to note that you can only take admissions for the Fall semester at UMN Twin cities. Here’s the general admission schedule.
Admission Cycle
For fall admissions, the deadline to submit your applications can vary each year. For instance, the final date for the next batch is March 1. Hence, you should submit all the relevant documents at least two weeks before this date.
Process
The admission procedure to enter the MS in Data Science at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities program is simple; take a look.
Visit the official website to fill out the online application form
Upload or send the required documents as per instructions
After submission, the committee will review your application
The Office of Graduate Admissions will mail the status updates at each stage
Check the final status on the official Graduate Application page
Note: Ensure that you send the required test scores to the accurate address of UMN.
Documents Required for Admission
Here’s the list of important papers that you should keep ready to apply for the MS Data Science program:
Academic mark sheets
English proficiency test scores
Statement of Purpose
CV
Letters of recommendation
Transcripts
You can also attach a description of your research or diversity statement.
Cost Of Attendance
The University of Minnesota data science course fees are an integral part of the overall expenses. Here’s a quick look at the costs:
Per credit tuition fees: USD 1,315 (Overall estimate: USD 26,676)
Living costs: USD 20,100
Additional costs: USD 4,500
These estimates offer a general idea of the costs you may incur post-admission.
Placements for MS in Data Science at the University of Minnesota
These top companies hire graduates who complete the Data Science course at UMN:
Microsoft
Google
Walmart Labs
IBM
Target Corp.
Amazon
So, studying Data Science at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities can offer a great head-start to your career.
What are the MS in Data Science schedule options at University of Minnesota twin cities program?
You can choose either the 3-semester or 4-semester schedule for the two-year master’s course. The credit division varies as per the two schedules. For instance, you need to complete 14, 12, and 6 credits in case of the 3-semester schedule.
On the other hand, the 4-semester schedule contains 11, 9, 6, and 6 credits each semester.
Who are some famous University of Minnesota alumni?
Notable names like Norman Borlaug, Deke Slayton, Alan Page, and Jessica Lange studied at the UMN. So, the history of this institute is a testament to its exceptional educational standards.
When can you expect the results of your admission application?
Generally, the committee conveys its decision of selection between April and May. So, you need to be prompt and check relevant notifications in this period.
With over10 years of experience in the ed-tech sector, Sachin holds expertise in operations management, ensuring the smooth functioning of study abroad programs. He has deep understanding of the global university systems, acceptance rates, and selection process.