UGA’s Franklin College of Arts and Sciences is expanding its online graduate offerings with a new fully online Master of Science in Applied Data Science, launching Fall 2025. Designed for working professionals, the 30-credit program offers academic flexibility and can be completed in just two years.

Offered through the Department of Statistics, this interdisciplinary program builds hands-on expertise in programming, data science techniques, and statistical analysis using both Python and R. Students begin with foundational courses in data structures, SQL, and statistical modeling, then advance to topics such as clustering, classification algorithms, deep learning, and natural language processing.

“Statistics is a field that combines rigor, creativity, and practical application. I hope students develop not only a solid foundation in data science and statistics in my classes, but also the ability to think critically, analyze data effectively, and communicate their findings to diverse audiences,” said Maduranga Dassanayake, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Statistics.

The curriculum brings together perspectives from statistics, computer science, linguistics, and management information systems to prepare students for the demands of today’s data-driven economy. With a focus on real-world applications, graduates will be equipped to lead data initiatives across industries, mastering tools for data visualization, software development, distributed data processing, and strategic decision-making.

Learn more about the MS in Applied Data Science.

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