Frequently Asked Questions
GENERAL:
Is the MS in Data Science a STEM program?
Yes, the MS in Data Science is a STEM program.
Can I do CPT and/or OPT?
Yes, International students may be eligible to do CPT and/or OPT. CPT can usually be undertaken after one year of being in the program. The US immigration rules are very specific and students are strongly advised to discuss their specific situation with Pacific's International Programs and Services advisors.
Is this a full-time program?
Yes, this is a full-time graduate-level program.
Where is the program based?
Our program is based in the University of the Pacific's San Francisco campus. The campus is located in the SOMA (South of Market) neighborhood.
What are the admission requirements?
+ An undergraduate degree
+ Transcripts
+ Two letters of recommendation
+ A resume
+ Statement of interest
International applicants are additionally required to provide official evaluations of their transcripts from one of the agencies accepted by the University, and to provide official English proficiency test scores from either TOEFL or IELTS.
Additionally, successful candidates will have a basic foundation in linear algebra, statistics and computer programming. Students must have access to a computer along with sufficient internet access to view and/or take part in video sessions, and be able to be physically in class during scheduled in-classroom meetings. In addition to the academic submissions, applicants are also required to complete a statement of interest.
The purpose of this statement is to allow applicants to demonstrate their motivation, skills, and abilities that will contribute to their academic success in our program. While there is no specific format required for this statement, applicants are advised to give particular consideration to:
+ Academic credentials
+ Experience in the foundational concepts of:
+ Statistics
+ Linear Algebra
+ Computer programming (any language, but Python and R are preferred)
+ Commitment and personal stamina to undertake fast paced, intensive academic program
+ Enthusiasm for this particular course of study.
All students will be invited to take a short introductory test. This will give you a brief insight into some of the material we will be covering, and help us understand the knowledge level of the cohort.
Do I need to take the GRE or GMAT?
Neither the GRE nor the GMAT is required for admission to this program.
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What transcripts are required?
An official set of transcripts from each post-secondary institution attended is required as part of the application. Transcripts from universities outside of the United States must also be accompanied by an official WES evaluation.
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Length and schedule of program?
Students must complete 32 units for degree conferral. The program consists of 4 semesters spread over 2 academic years.
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What is hybrid delivery?
Hybrid delivery means that courses will have components that require students to be physically present in the classroom, and components that will require students to complete and participate in online class assignments and activities, such as live conferencing with their instructors.
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What is a Capstone project?
The Capstone project occurs during the last semester and enables students to engage in a real-world data science problem, while working with one of Pacific's industry partners. Students will be divided into teams and will have the opportunity to put into practice all that they have learned throughout the program, gaining hands-on experience on a real-world data science project. Because a sponsoring company will host the Capstone project, students should anticipate that they might be required to be present on that company's premises for an average of 1 day per week during normal business hours.
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What is the cost of the program?
The cost of the program for the 2019-2020 academic year is $1,498/unit.
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What are the job prospects in this field?
Recent studies by the McKinsey Global Institute and MIT Sloan Management Review have found that the demand for data scientists is currently exceeding the supply and that this trend is expected to continue. With ever-greater quantities of data at a company or government's disposal, individuals with knowledge and skills in data analytics will be increasingly in demand. This shortage of talent has also resulted in data scientists being one of the highest paid professionals in the tech industry. Please see our CAREER PATHS page for a sample of potential careers in the data science field.
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When is the priority deadline?
+ For students applying for admission for San Francisco in Fall 2019, please complete your application by May 1, 2019 to ensure adequate time for a decision before classes start in August. The program may accept applications after this date - please contact the program.
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When do classes start?
Classes for the San Francisco Fall 2019 cohort begin in August 2019.
INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS:
Do you admit international students?
Yes. Please contact the Office of International Programs and Services for visa-related questions.
BUSINESSES:
I'm a business owner, how do I sponsor an employee(s)?
In order to comply with U.S. privacy laws, the University of the Pacific is required to work directly with the student in terms of fee payments. Corporations wishing to sponsor their employees to attend the program should do so by following their own internal processes in terms of course cost reimbursement to their employees. If you have further questions, please contact Rick Hutley, the program director, at: rhutley@pacific.edu.
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How do I sponsor a Capstone project?
If you are interested in sponsoring a Capstone project, please contact Rick Hutley, the program director, at: rhutley@pacific.edu.
SOCIAL MEDIA:
How do I stay up-to-date?
To stay up-to-date with the latest news about our program and faculty, please check:
Our website at: pacific.edu/datascience
Or our Facebook page at: facebook.com/pacificdatascience