Introduction
Why UM-Flint
The technological world lives and depends on data. Whereas sophisticated use of data analytics used to be a competitive advantage, the employment of information scientists is now becoming an industry standard. Data warehousing, security, business intelligence, information storage and retrieval, and data mining are all crucial areas that industries must employ to remain competitive on a local and global scale.
Our graduate certificate in Data Science provides students with a highly concentrated set of classes that deliver technical training specifically in these areas related to big data use. Graduates of this certificate will be key players in driving decisions that are embedded in modern organizational and business processes.
Cyber Classrooms
With our Cyber-classrooms at your fingertips, we have the most flexible options to complete your graduate certificate at UM-Flint, including 100% online. The cyber-classrooms allow students to work from anywhere with computer access. In this enhanced learning environment, content is provided via our Mediasite viewer for students that are enrolled each semester. Students enrolled in these courses, will have access to course recordings online. For more information on Cyber Classrooms, click here.
Fast Track Option
Available for students without an undergraduate degree in computer science or a related field, this option consists of courses focused on the core competencies of Networking, Architecture, Algorithms, and Databases. Those who possess an undergraduate degree in liberal arts or business fields may be required to take some additional math and programming courses. All of the Fast Track pre-requisite courses are taught in the cyber-classroom format.
Courses
Prerequisites
Students with insufficient preparation may be required to take some of the following prerequisite courses:
A. Mathematics
MTH 118 - Calculus for Management and Social Sciences (4)
B. Programming
All students (except for UM-Flint CSC alumni) are required to take a programming proficiency test and, based on its score, may be required to take:
CSC 500 - Intensive Programming and Computer-Based Problem Solving (3)
C. Additional Computer Science Courses
Students without a Computer Science, Computer Information Systems, Data Sciences, or related bachelor's degree are required to take:
CSC 375 - Data Structures (3)
CSC 384 - Database Design (3)
Requirements
CIS 531 - Advanced Data Warehousing and Business Intelligence (3)
CSC 530 - Advanced Information Storage and Retrieval (3)
CSC 582 - Advanced Database Concepts and Emerging Applications (3)
CSC 587 - Advanced Data Mining: Algorithms and Applications (3)
Note
All requirements must be completed within six calendar years of initial enrollment in the program.
Admission Requirements
A Bachelor of Science degree from a regionally accredited institution in Computer Science, Computer Information Systems, or Computer Engineering is preferred. Applicants with other undergraduate degrees may enter the program while they complete the Fast-Track coursework to allow them to quickly attain the required background knowledge.
Minimum overall undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
State authorization for online students
In recent years, the federal government has emphasized the need for universities and colleges to be in compliance with the distance education laws of each individual state. If you are an out-of-state student intending to enroll in an online program, please visit the State Authorization page to verify the status of UM-Flint with your state.
Applying
To be considered for admission, submit an online application below. Other materials can be emailed or delivered to the Office of Graduate Programs, 251 Thompson Library.
Application for Graduate Admission
$55 application fee (non-refundable)
Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
Three letters of recommendation from individuals who can evaluate your scholarly and/or professional ability (This requirement is waived for all University of Michigan Alumni.)
Statement of Purpose describing your objectives for graduate study and reasons for selecting this program
International Students: Submit additional documentation. Visit umflint.edu/international for details. Because this is a certificate program, students are not eligible to obtain a student visa (F visa). Students with all other visa types are eligible.
Application Deadlines
Fall Early Deadline: May 1*
Fall Final Deadline: August 1
Winter: November 15
Spring: March 15
Summer: May 15
*You must apply for admission by the early deadline to be eligible for scholarships, grants, and research assistantships. Because this is a certificate program, students enrolled are not eligible for federal student loans. More information is available here.
