Boston University Metropolitan College Online Master of Science in Applied Data Analytics, Massachusetts 

Why Boston University Metropolitan College? 

If you are interested in the field of Data Science, but you aren’t sure a Master’s degree in the area is the right path for you, you might want to consider the Master of Science in Applied Data Analytics from Boston University Metropolitan College. “Met” is one of the 17 colleges that make up Boston University. Its mission is to provide a Boston University education for working adults by offering only programs that are taught entirely online, in a blended format, or in-person solely in the evenings. Accessibility is the name of the game when it comes to Met’s application process. 

If you do not have the recommended prerequisite background in computer science, information technology, or mathematics, it’s easy to identify which Met courses you need to take before embarking on the requirements for the Masters.  No standardized test scores are required (unless you are an international applicant who must submit TOEFL results). Most importantly, for most potential applicants, students can take up to two courses at Metropolitan College without applying to any programs. They simply register and pay the course fee. If the classes and the college are a good fit, the student can then choose to go through the application process and enroll in the degree program if accepted.  

Program Snapshot

University Name Boston University Metropolitan College
Location Boston
State Massachusetts
Niche.com Grade A+
Name of Degree Master of Science in Applied Data Analytics 
School or Department Administering Program Computer Science
Credits 32
Cost per credit $925
Tuition for Entire Program $29,600
Test Requirements TOEFL if applicable
Minimum GPA None indicated
Prerequisite Courses and Skills Background in information technology, computer science, and mathematics or the following prerequisite courses:

  • Introduction to Software Development
  • Introduction to Python or Introduction  to Java
  • Data Structures and Algorithms
  • Introduction to Probability and Statistics
  • Database Management or Database Design and Implementation for Business
Campus Visit Required? No
Typical Time to Complete Two semesters
When Can Students Start the Program? January, March, May, July, September, and November.
Program Concentrations None
Synchronous classes No
Required Courses
  • Foundations of Analytics with R
  • Data Analysis and Visualization with R
  • Analysis of Algorithms
  • Data Science with Python
  • Web Analytics and Mining
  • Data Mining
Does the Program Include a Capstone? No
Does the program include a practicum or internship? No
Other Features that Make the Program Unique Can take up to 2 courses at BU Metropolitan College without applying – just register and pay, and then choose to apply and use these courses towards the degree.
Program Objectives  Graduates of Met’s data analytics programs will learn to find patterns and details in large sets of data through visualization and other mining techniques, and be able to demonstrate a knowledgeable command of applied probability and statistics, web analytics, and metrics
Program Description This 32-credit program offers the chance to complete two courses before applying for the degree. It can be completed within two semesters and focuses on data mining, visualization, applied probability, statistics, web analytics, and metrics and other topics. No program concentrations are offered, and neither are capstone or practicum options.  

What will I Learn?

Once a student has been admitted to the Master of Science in Applied Data Science at Boston University Metropolitan College, they are required to take six courses that cover various aspects of analytics, programming, data visualization, and data mining. An essential feature of these required courses is that they build skills in both the R programming language and the Python programming language. The program’s stated learning objectives focus on practical technical skills such as finding patterns and details in datasets through visualization and data mining and demonstrating a knowledgeable command of applied probability and statistics, web analytics, and metrics. A course focusing on ethical or societal implications, common in many similar programs, is not a requirement for all students. Although the program does not offer named concentrations in any specific technique or domain, there is more choice than in some similar degrees because students have a choice from among numerous electives.

How much will the program cost?

The “try before you apply” model would allow you to be sure about a program that represents a significant financial investment: at $925 per credit, the total cost of the program comes in at just under $30,000.

How does the program fit into my life?

The program can be completed in as little as two semesters. Courses follow an accelerated schedule, giving students the chance to focus intensively on one subject. Flexibility is offered by the 100% online program, with no requirement to visit campus. Students can enter the program at any one of six possible start dates throughout the year: January, March, May, July, September, and November. 

Summary

Advantages to the Boston University Metropolitan College program include intense technical training and an accelerated, flexible course model. Capstone and internship/practicum courses are not available, so students may feel the lack of those structured opportunities to apply what they have learned.  Boston’s status as a hub of technology and education and its proximity to other east coast powerhouse cities makes BU Met an attractive choice for students wishing to access the powerhouse job markets and networks of the East Coast.