Cabrini University Online Master of Science in Data Science, Pennsylvania

Why Cabrini University? 

The online Master of Science in Data Science Program from Cabrini University is a lower-cost option for the aspiring data scientist who wants a solid introduction to the field complemented by some hands-on experience and coursework in business and project management skills. Cabrini, a small private Catholic college in the suburbs west of Philadelphia, is primarily an undergraduate residential college, and data science is one of about a dozen part-time online professional programs offered.

Students having a bachelor’s degree in computer science and some college-level math and statistics, as well as expertise in database systems and object-oriented programming, will be well-prepared for the degree. The 2.75 necessary GPA for admission is lower than some other MSDS programs, and the lack of standardized test scores in the application process enables accessibility to a diverse array of applicants.

Program Snapshot

University Name Cabrini University
Location Radnor
State Pennsylvania
Niche.com Grade C+
Name of Degree Master of Science in Data Science 
School or Department Administering Program School of Natural Sciences and Allied Health
Credits 36
Cost per credit $705
Tuition for Entire Program $25,380
Test Requirements None
Minimum GPA 2.75
Prerequisite Courses and Skills
  • Coursework in statistics and college-level math
  • Undergraduate degree in computer science or related field or coursework in object-oriented programming & database management systems
Campus Visit Required? No
Typical Time to Complete 24 months
When Can Students Start the Program? Fall, Spring
Program Concentrations None
Synchronous classes No
Required Courses
  • Introduction to Database Management
  • Information Systems Management
  • Introduction to Data Analytics for Business
  • Data Access and Transformation 
  • Programming for the Data Sciences
  • Mathematics for the Data Sciences
  • Dashboards and Data Visualization for Data Analysis
  • Introduction to Machine Learning
  • Enterprise Information Systems
  • Introduction to Project Management
  • Business Elective
  • Internship/Capstone
Does the Program Include a Capstone? Yes
Does the program include a practicum or internship? Yes
Other Features that Make the Program Unique Small class sizes, use of Hadoop and SAS, Catholic heritage
Program Objectives 
  • Become proficient in Python, R, SQL and other programming languages.
  • Learn about the functions of a business enterprise.
  • Learn how to use Tableau, Hadoop, and Apache Spark.
  • Demonstrate database administration, management, and warehousing expertise.
  • To graduate with relevant experience, complete an internship or capstone project.
Program Description The 36 credit program at Cabrini teaches students programming languages such as Python, R and SQL and gives them an understanding of business enterprise functions as they become proficient in Tableau, Hadoop, and Apache Spark, as well as database administration management and warehousing. Courses in project management and business skills complement the required internship or capstone.   

What will I Learn?

Within the program’s 36 credits all students follow the same path. This program structure offers predictability and a stress-free registration process, but aspiring data scientists looking to follow specific interests or explore elective subject areas beyond core data science skills should probably take a pass on the Cabrini program. In keeping with the small size of Cabrini overall, the program boasts small class sizes. Learning objectives are primarily practical and technical. Students can expect to learn at least one programming language (of Python, R and SQL) and become proficient in the industry-standard tools of Tableau, SAS, Hadoop and Apache Spark. They also gain understanding of enterprise functions and data management and warehousing. Students then get the opportunity to apply their new knowledge and skills in their choice of either an internship or capstone course. A key feature of the program is the required business elective for every student, along with required courses in project management and enterprise information systems. 

How much will the program cost?

The cost per credit of $705 brings the total cost of the 24-month program to just over $25,000. 

How does the program fit into my life?

Flexibility comes from the program’s 100% online format, with asynchronous classes providing an “on-demand” experience for the busy student. No visits to campus are required to complete the program.

Summary

 If you are entering a Master’s program direct from undergraduate education, and feel less prepared in terms of general workplace skills and experience, Cabrini’s program might be the one for you as it combines general business topics with technical training in industry-standard tools. Conversely, students coming to data science with a wealth of professional experience will likely find these courses, and likely the program overall,  to be less relevant to their interests and goals.