YSU launches new graduate program: Master of Science in Data Science & Statistics

Youngstown State University's College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics and the College of Graduate Studies have launched a new graduate program to begin in Fall 2024. The Master of Science in Data Science & Statistics is an interdisciplinary program built around a curriculum that will enhance learners’ knowledge and application of data science and statistics, including the use of “big data” to help solve problems and provide insight.

The program will take advantage of the collaborative relationship that already exists between YSU faculty members; the YSU Data Mine; and those involved with the Purdue University Data Mine, a living, learning and research-based community created to introduce students to data science concepts and equip them to create solutions to real-world problems.

Dean of the College of Graduate Studies and Assistant Provost, Salvatore Sanders stated, “The program is unique in the utilization of real-world data analysis utilizing the YSU Data Mine and STEM internship projects,” recognizing the demand for a program geared toward data literacy.

After a tremendous growth over the last three years in the conferral of data analytics certificates at the university, the need to provide students opportunity to engage in practical, real-world projects while learning data analytics became evident. External initiatives in the region and state to attract employers, such as Ultium Cells in Lordstown and Intel in Columbus will only increase the need for more employees trained in data science and statistics.

Data Analytics courses will remain at the core of the program curriculum, with elective options from a variety of disciplines ranging from Biological Sciences; Business; Computer Sciences; Economics; Geography; Mathematics; and Statistics. Professor and Department Chair of Chemical and Biological Sciences, Timothy Wagner notes that, given the interdisciplinary nature of the program, students can “focus their new expertise in data analytics on an area related to their respective undergraduate programs.”

College of STEM Dean and Professor, Wim Steelant adds, “The program stresses the importance of experiential learning, which is an emphasis of the College of STEM.” He continued, “We are excited about the prospect of adding data science and statistics to our portfolio of graduate degree options for students.”

Applications are open now, with the program officially beginning in the Fall 2024 semester. For any questions about the program, contact Tom Wakefield in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at (330) 941-3302 or by email at tpwakefield@ysu.edu.