Program structure

The Master of Science in Data Analytics (MSDA) program at Walsh College is designed to provide students with in-depth knowledge and practical skills to interpret data and inform business strategies. The curriculum emphasizes real-world applications using industry-standard tools and techniques.

1. Total Credit Hours

• 30 credit hours are required to complete the program.

2. Core Courses

The core curriculum includes foundational and advanced topics in data analytics:

• Data Mining and Predictive Modeling
• Statistical Analysis and Decision Making
• Data Visualization and Communication
• Big Data and Data Governance
• Programming for Data Science (Python or R)
• Business Analytics Strategy

3. Practical Application

• Capstone Project or Practicum:
  • A hands-on project integrating skills and concepts from the program to solve a real-world business problem using data analytics.

4. Tools and Techniques

Students gain expertise in industry-standard tools and methodologies:

• Statistical Tools: R, Python, SAS
• Data Visualization Platforms: Tableau, Power BI
• Database Management: SQL, NoSQL
• Big Data Tools: Hadoop, Spark

5. Specializations

Students can focus on specific areas of interest:

• Predictive Analytics
• Data Governance
• Big Data Analytics

6. Learning Formats

• Online Learning: Courses are available fully online for flexibility.
• Hybrid Learning: Combines online and on-campus options to suit individual preferences.

7. Duration

• The program is designed to be completed in 1.5 to 2 years for full-time students.
• Part-time options are available for working professionals.

8. Program Highlights

• Practical, hands-on learning through case studies, projects, and internships.
• Faculty with extensive industry experience in analytics and business intelligence.
• Emphasis on data-driven decision-making and real-world problem-solving.

For more details, visit the Walsh College program page.

Fees and Funding

1. Tuition Fees

• Cost Per Credit Point: $924
• Total Credits Required: 30 credits
• Estimated Total Tuition: $27,720
• Estimated Annual Fee: Approximately $16,632 (based on 18 credits per year for full-time enrollment).

2. Funding Opportunities

a. Scholarships

• Merit-Based Scholarships:
  • Awarded to students with strong academic records or professional achievements.
  • Amounts vary depending on qualifications.
• Need-Based Scholarships:
  • Available to students demonstrating financial need via FAFSA.
• Program-Specific Scholarships:
  • Scholarships tailored for students pursuing data analytics or STEM-related fields.
• Veteran and Military Scholarships:
  • Includes support through the Yellow Ribbon Program for eligible veterans.

b. Federal Financial Aid

• FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid):
  • Eligible students can apply for federal grants and loans.
  • Walsh College FAFSA code: 004072.

c. Employer Tuition Reimbursement

• Many students utilize employer-sponsored tuition assistance programs.

d. Payment Plans

• Walsh College offers flexible payment options to spread tuition costs across the semester.

e. Private Loans

• Additional funding is available through private lenders for students needing supplemental aid.

Additional Costs

• Books and Materials: Estimated at $1,000–$2,000 annually.
• Technology Fees: Contact the college for applicable fees.

Application Process for Financial Aid

1. Submit FAFSA: Required for need-based financial aid and federal loans.
2. Scholarship Application: Apply for scholarships through the Walsh College Scholarships page.
3. Meet Deadlines: Apply early to maximize your financial aid opportunities.

For more details, visit the Walsh College Financial Aid and  Scholarships page.

Scholarship Guidance

Walsh College provides a range of scholarships to support students pursuing the Master of Science in Data Analytics (MSDA). These scholarships aim to reduce financial barriers and recognize academic excellence, professional achievements, and financial need.

1. Merit-Based Scholarships

• Eligibility:
  • Awarded to students with strong academic performance.
  • Typically based on undergraduate GPA or demonstrated professional excellence.
• Award Amount:
  • Varies based on funding availability and applicant qualifications.

2. Need-Based Scholarships

• Eligibility:
  • For students demonstrating financial need.
• How to Apply:
  • Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
  • Walsh College FAFSA code: 004072.

3. Program-Specific Scholarships

• Focus Areas:
  • Scholarships tailored for students specializing in data analytics or related STEM fields.
  • Emphasis on supporting those pursuing careers in analytics, business intelligence, or big data.

4. Veteran and Military Scholarships

• Yellow Ribbon Program:
  • Walsh College participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, covering tuition costs beyond the GI Bill® cap for eligible veterans.
• Eligibility:
  • Available to veterans, active-duty military personnel, and their dependents.

5. External and Private Scholarships

• Students are encouraged to apply for external scholarships offered by private foundations, professional associations, and industry organizations in the data analytics field.

6. Alumni Grants

• Discounts or scholarships available for Walsh College alumni returning for graduate programs.

Application Process for Scholarships

1. Submit FAFSA: Required for need-based scholarships and some merit-based awards.
2. Complete Scholarship Applications: Visit the Walsh College Scholarships page to apply.
3. Provide Supporting Documents:
   • Personal statements, transcripts, and letters of recommendation, if required.
4. Apply Early: Scholarships are often awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Application Deadlines

• Scholarship deadlines vary, and early application is recommended to maximize eligibility.

For more information on available scholarships and funding options, visit the Walsh College Financial Aid and Scholarships page.

Admission Requirements

To apply for the Master of Science in Data Analytics program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Educational Background

• Bachelor’s Degree:
  • Applicants must have earned a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.

2. Academic Performance

• Grade Point Average (GPA):
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale.
  • Applicants with a lower GPA may be considered for conditional admission.

3. Professional Experience

• Relevant Experience (Preferred):
  • While not required, prior work experience in business, data analytics, or a related field strengthens the application.

4. English Language Proficiency (For International Applicants)

• TOEFL: Minimum score of 79.
• IELTS: Minimum band score of 6.5.
• Alternative Proof: Completion of a degree program in English may suffice for proficiency requirements.

5. Prerequisite Knowledge

• Foundational knowledge in programming, statistics, or database management is recommended. Applicants without a background in these areas may need to take prerequisite courses.

6. Required Application Materials

1. Completed Application Form:
   • Submit online through the Walsh College Application Portal.
2. Official Transcripts:
   • Submit transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
3. Resume or CV:
   • Highlight professional achievements and relevant experience.
4. Personal Statement (Optional):
   • Discuss career goals, motivation for pursuing data analytics, and how the program aligns with your objectives.
5. Letters of Recommendation (Optional):
   • Academic or professional references can strengthen your application.

7. Application Fee

• Confirm and pay the application fee (if applicable) during the submission process.

8. Application Deadlines

• Walsh College offers rolling admissions, meaning applications are accepted year-round. Early submission is encouraged to secure financial aid and preferred start dates.

Additional Support

For further assistance, contact the Walsh College Admissions Office or visit the Admissions page.

This program is ideal for individuals aiming to enhance their skills in data analytics and pursue leadership roles in this rapidly growing field.

Application Procedure

Follow these steps to apply for the MSDA program at Walsh College:

Step 1: Review Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree:
  • Must be from a regionally accredited institution.
• GPA Requirement:
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 (on a 4.0 scale).
• English Proficiency (for International Students):
  • TOEFL: Minimum score of 79.
  • IELTS: Minimum band score of 6.5.
• Relevant Knowledge:
  • Foundational understanding of programming, statistics, or database management (prerequisites may apply for students without this background).

Step 2: Prepare Required Materials

• Application Form:
  • Complete the online application through the Walsh College Application Portal.
• Official Transcripts:
  • Submit transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
• Resume or CV:
  • Highlight academic achievements, work experience, and relevant skills.
• Personal Statement (Optional):
  • Explain your motivation for pursuing the MSDA program and your career goals.
• Letters of Recommendation (Optional):
  • Academic or professional references can strengthen your application.

Step 3: Submit the Application

• Online Submission:
  • Complete and submit your application on the Walsh College Admissions page.
• Application Fee:
  • Confirm and pay the application fee (if applicable) during submission.

Step 4: Apply for Financial Aid and Scholarships

• FAFSA Submission:
  • Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to determine eligibility for financial aid and scholarships.
  • Walsh College FAFSA code: 004072.
• Scholarship Application:
  • Apply for available scholarships through the Walsh College Scholarships page.

Step 5: Application Review

• Evaluation:
  • The admissions team reviews applications holistically, considering academic performance, professional experience, and overall fit for the program.
• Interview (if required):
  • Applicants may be invited for an interview to discuss their qualifications and goals.

Step 6: Admission Decision

• Walsh College notifies applicants of their admission status via email or mail.
• Conditional admission may be offered for students needing prerequisite courses or additional qualifications.

Step 7: Confirm Enrollment

• Accept the offer of admission and pay any required enrollment deposit.

Step 8: Register for Classes

• Meet with an academic advisor to plan your course schedule and register for your first semester.

Step 9: Attend Orientation

• Participate in an orientation session to familiarize yourself with Walsh College resources, policies, and learning tools.

Application Deadlines

• Walsh College operates on a rolling admissions basis, allowing students to apply throughout the year.
• Early application is recommended to ensure a smooth process and access to financial aid opportunities.

For further details, visit the Walsh College Admissions page or contact the admissions office directly.