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 |
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| 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 |
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| 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 |
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| 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.