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The Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics (MSA) at Georgia State University (GSU) is a rigorous, STEM-designated interdisciplinary program designed to equip students with statistical, computational, and business analytical skills essential for solving real-world data challenges. Housed within the College of Arts & Sciences, and supported by faculty across business, computer science, and public health, the program is tailored for students who want to become high-impact data professionals across industries.
The GSU MSA emphasizes hands-on learning, industry engagement, and team-based projects, ensuring graduates are workforce-ready with both technical knowledge and practical experience.
Program Format & Duration
Full-time cohort-based program
Duration: 16 months (3 semesters)
In-person, with evening classes to support working professionals
STEM-designated (eligible for OPT for international students)
Fall intake only
No thesis requirement
Core Curriculum Components
The MSA curriculum blends core quantitative training, data engineering, machine learning, and business context, structured in a collaborative, team-based format.
Foundation Modules
Programming & Data Management
Python for Data Analysis
SQL & Relational Databases
Data Wrangling and Cleaning
Cloud Platforms and APIs
Statistics & Machine Learning
Statistical Inference
Linear and Logistic Regression
Supervised & Unsupervised Learning
Time Series & Forecasting
Natural Language Processing
Business & Domain Knowledge
Data-Driven Decision Making
Ethics in Data Science
Communication & Data Storytelling
Agile Project Management
Capstone Analytics Practicum
Two-semester industry-based project
Student teams work with corporate sponsors on live analytics problems
Culminates in a formal presentation to executives and faculty reviewers
The GSU MSA is highly experiential, with real-world applications embedded in every semester.
Capstone Practicum
A distinguishing feature of the program, running across two semesters
Students work in interdisciplinary teams on complex problems in sectors such as:
Healthcare analytics
Marketing and consumer insights
Logistics and operations
Public policy and education
Projects are guided by faculty and corporate liaisons, with a strong focus on deliverables and professional reporting
Industry & Community Engagement
Strong ties with Atlanta-based companies including Delta, Coca-Cola, Equifax, NCR, and Home Depot
Students regularly attend networking events, career panels, and employer-hosted data challenges
Alumni network across the Southeast and beyond offers mentorship and job connections
Career Services & Workshops
Dedicated career coaching and resume building
Technical interview preparation and case studies
LinkedIn profile reviews and mock interviews
Graduates of GSU’s MSA program are in high demand for technical, analytical, and strategic roles across industry sectors. The blend of deep technical skill and business acumen enables them to lead data initiatives from both a technical and stakeholder-facing perspective.
Career Outcomes
Typical roles include:
Top Employers
GSU MSA graduates are recruited by:
Further Study
Some graduates pursue:
Salary Overview-
Top Employers-
Geographic Placement-
Industry Sectors-
Career Growth and Progression-
What This Means for You-
Online Application & Fee: Complete the online application and pay the $50 non‑refundable fee.Video Interview: Participate in a mandatory video interview during the application. Transcripts: Upload unofficial college transcripts with your application; official sealed transcripts are required only if admitted.Personal Statement: Submit a personal essay outlining your goals, experience, and program fit.Résumé/CV: Provide a current résumé detailing your education, skills, and work experience.GMAT/GRE: No GMAT or GRE required; submitting strong scores may strengthen your application or scholarship eligibility.Test Scores & Scholarships: GRE/GMAT scores are optional but may be requested or beneficial for scholarships.International Requirements: International applicants must meet English proficiency and transcript evaluation requirements (e.g., TOEFL/IELTS and course-by-course evaluations).Data Scientist Track: STEM bachelor’s, calculus I/II, multivariate, statistics, linear algebra; coding experience preferred.Citizen Data Scientist Track: Bachelor's in business or related fields; background in statistics/business helpful; programming experience highly recommended.Work Experience: 18+ months of work experience recommended for both tracks but not required.Three‑Year Bachelor’s Degrees: A U.S.-equivalent bachelor’s degree is required; while GSU does not explicitly mention three-year degrees, international applicants should verify their degree’s equivalency with the admissions office .WES Evaluation: Applicants must submit official transcripts directly from their institutions, and GSU does not accept WES or other credential evaluations in lieu of official documents.Data AnalystData ScientistBusiness AnalystStatisticianStatistical ProgrammerSAS ProgrammerMachine Learning EngineerDeep Learning EngineerAI ResearcherData EngineerBI DeveloperData ArchitectAnalytics ConsultantAdvisory ConsultantQuantitative AnalystRisk AnalystOperations AnalystMarketing AnalystResearch ScientistInsights AnalystForecasting AnalystHealthcare Data AnalystFinancial Data AnalystProduct Analyst
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Georgia State University
