Franklin College of Arts and Sciences is expanding its online offerings with three fully online master’s programs: the Master of Science in Applied Data Science, the Master of Science in Environmental Geology, and the Master of Art Education. Available Fall 2025, these programs are designed to meet the needs of working professionals seeking career advancement and academic flexibility, and can be completed in just two years. They join Franklin’s well-established Online Master of Music Education, which has been serving educators for over a decade.

Online Master of Science in Applied Data Science

Data science is one of the fastest-growing fields in the country, with demand projected to rise more than 35% over the next decade (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics¹). UGA’s online MS in Applied Data Science prepares professionals to lead in this expanding field with hands-on experience and advanced technical training.

Offered through the Department of Statistics, this interdisciplinary program equips students with the skills needed for roles in software development, statistical analysis, database management, machine learning, data visualization, and natural language processing. And, as it is designed for working professionals, the 30-credit program can be completed fully online in two years.

Learn more about the MS in Applied Data Science.

Online Master of Science in Environmental Geology

Built for professionals in environmental consulting, resource exploration, or regulatory compliance, UGA’s online MS in Environmental Geology offers a flexible, non-thesis path to deepen technical expertise while continuing to work full time.

The 30-credit curriculum covers topics such as Hydrogeology, Hazardous Waste Site Remediation, Water Resource Economics and Management, and Science Communication. Students complete a research project tailored to their career goals, whether that means analyzing a past project, applying work-based data, collaborating with faculty, or pursuing an internship.

Learn more about the MS in Environmental Geology.

Online Master of Art Education

Offered through the Lamar Dodd School of Art, the Master of Art Education (MAEd) blends creative practice with research in contemporary art education, disability studies, culturally responsive teaching, and digital technology. The program encourages reflection, innovation, and social engagement through art.

Designed for both certified art educators and professionals working in community-based or museum education, the fully online MAEd includes the option of an on-campus, one-week summer residency. For students interested in earning a teaching certificate alongside the MAEd, an in-person certification track is also available.

Learn more about the MAEd in Art Education.

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1. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook – Data Scientists,  https://www.bls.gov/ooh/math/data-scientists.htm ¹ ↩︎