A candidate with a master’s degree in data science is the most sought after requirement by employers. Obtaining your MS demonstrates to potential employers that you have sufficient expertise in each of the abilities required to excel in data science or a related subject – as well as a desire to be at the forefront of the field.
The lack of adequate information regarding a Master’s programme in Data Science in the US is a bottleneck for millions of Indian students to embark further on their data science journey. Therefore, Analytics India Magazine got in touch with the Computer Science department of the North Carolina State University, one of the leading public research universities, to get a piece of first-hand information about the programme.
AIM: How does the course for Masters in Data Science stand out and designed to make students industry ready?
NCSU: Our department offers a Masters in Computer Science with a track (concentration) in Data Science. The curriculum of the Masters’ Track in Data Science includes courses that instil in students skills essential to knowledge discovery efforts, including skills in managing, querying, analysing, visualising, and extracting meaning from extremely large data sets. These skills are at the core of analytical intelligence and decision making in nearly every industry sector and academic field.
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Graduate students in Computer Science also have the benefit of specialised career programmes and services, which includes the Corporate & Career Services suite, with opportunities for on-campus interviews, small group career workshops, virtual practice interviews, and individual career advising.
AIM: What aspects do you look for in a student while granting admission to this program?
NCSU: We consider a variety of factors in the admissions process, including the undergraduate University, major, and GPA, GRE scores, English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS scores), letters of recommendation (three), and the applicant’s statement.
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In particular, we pay attention to an applicant’s standing within their graduating class, specifically targeting applicants at the top quartile.
AIM: How well does the university/college have industry links for on-campus placements? Do you place any specific emphasis on foreign students, especially from India?
NCSU: Our department’s Director of Career Services serves as liaison with industry partners and as an advocate for the department to encourage and identify premiere internship and career opportunities for our Masters’ students. Our ePartners program consists of a variety of companies who are not only interested in recruiting our students but are a strong source of contacts for them.
Our Master’s program is diverse and highly international. For example, in Fall 2021, 60% of enrolled Masters students hail from India.
AIM: Can you share the placement history of the college, specific to the data science program for students’ reference?
NCSU: Students graduating from our Masters’ program are fortunate to be highly recruited by top employers, both locally (in the Research Triangle) and throughout the United States. Our department is a top supplier of new hires for several major, multinational companies.
We have attached the results of the most recent survey of Computer Science Masters graduates in the 2020-21 academic year, which includes salary and placement information for graduates of the Masters’ track in Data Science.
AIM: Who all can apply to the course? Would you please mention requirements specific to Indian students only?
NCSU: Applicants must have an undergraduate degree in Computer Science or a related field. International applicants must provide TOEFL/IELTS test scores as well as GRE scores. Our web page on the application procedure has a detailed list of all application steps and requirements.
The university follows a four-step application process.
- Step 1: A candidate has to choose a graduate degree program or graduate certificate
- Step 2: Review application deadlines
- Step 3: A candidate has to prepare their application materials
- Step 4: Finally, one has to submit their application
One can find the complete details here.
AIM: Can you mention the availability of any scholarship and accommodation for Indian students? If yes, please provide details on how to grab this opportunity.
NCSU: There is limited support from the department for Masters students but abundant part-time and summer employment with local and national high tech companies, paying very respectable wages. Our web pages on Cost/Financial Aid Opportunities (here) and Employment of Graduate Students include a thorough discussion of financial support.
AIM: Who all will be the concerned authorities for the Indian students to contact for matters related to admission directly?
NCSU: For questions regarding graduate admissions, prospective applicants may use the email alias csc_gradadmissions@ncsu.edu. This email will be directed to the appropriate person to help with the question or request.
