George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia offers an online master of science in data analytics program including a machine learning engineering specialty. Here, we will examine the in and outs of this program and describe why it might be the perfect choice for you.
Why Should You Choose George Mason University’s Online MS in Data Analytics Engineering-Machine Learning Engineering Program?
George Mason University began as a branch campus of the University of Virginia in 1957, with just 17 students. It became a separate university in 1972. Today, as Virginia’s largest public research university, George Mason University registers over 37,000 students from 130 countries and all 50 states, for classes offered both online and in-person. The school has been given accreditation by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
The university’s research capabilities have been recognized by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education as one of the top research universities in the United States. The online experience provided by George Masson University offers students the same quality education as does the in-person experience, with the same academic standards. Online students at GMU get the chance to interact with other students and faculty in a collaborative learning environment. The online program also offers flexibility to students who may be working full- or part-time and/or have family commitments.
GMU has been lauded for its diversity and inclusion, and was named the number one public Virginia university for diversity and innovation by U.S. News and World Report. Its admission rate is 90 percent, higher than that of most other public universities, and its six-year graduation rate is above the national average, with no disparities based upon economic status or ethnicity noted. Additionally, College Factual’s National Rankings place GMU as the number one university in Virginia for non-traditional students and the number four public university in the United States for non-traditional students.
Program Overview
George Mason University’s Master of Science in Data Analytics Engineering- Machine Learning Engineering is a 30-credit, completely online program proffered by the College of Engineering and Computing. The program can be finished within two years. The faculty who teach in the MS in Data Analytics Engineering-Machine Learning Engineering online program are career-focused, making sure that students are prepared for the real world after graduation. They are also available to online students to mentor them through video, phone, and email.
Courses are presented online in an asynchronous format, meaning that students may complete the work at times and places that suit them best. This type of learning format does require self-discipline, however, so keep that in mind if you are considering enrolling in this program. Synchronous meetings or groups may also occur during the online program.
GMU’s online MS in Data Analytics Engineering-Machine Learning Engineering program is designed for professionals who work in the field and want to advance their knowledge.
Admissions Requirements
Applications to GMU’s MS in Data Analytics Engineering-Machine Learning Engineering online program are accepted year-round on a rolling basis. The graduate application may be accessed here. An undergraduate degree is required to apply, preferably in information technology, math, statistics, computer science, business, or engineering. You should have a strong background in mathematics; have completed courses in computer programming, calculus, and statistics; and a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. If your undergraduate degree is not in a STEM discipline, but you have extensive work experience in analytics or data, your application may still be considered. Submit a recommendation letter (personal or professional), resume, and personal statement outlining your career goals when you submit your application. The GRE is not required for admission to GMU’s program.
Curriculum
The curriculum for GMU’s MS in Data Analytics Engineering-Machine Learning Engineering online program includes:
- Big Data to Information
- Data Analytics Project
- Introduction to Analytics and Modeling
- Principles of Data Management and Mining
- Applied Statistics and Visualization for Analytics
- Interpretable Machine Learning
- Applied Machine Learning
- Applied Deep Learning
- Introduction to Natural Language Processing
- Knowledge Mining from Big Data
- Determining Needs for Complex Big Data Systems
At least one project is required to be completed prior to graduation.
Student Outcomes for George Mason University’s Online MS Data Analytics Engineering-Machine Learning Engineering Program
Upon graduation, students in GMU’s MS in Data Analytics Engineering-Machine Learning Engineering online program are ready to work in government, non-profit, for-profit, and private sectors. Industries in which graduates often find employment include statistics, systems engineering, business, and information science/technology. Jobs as Data Scientists and Data Analysts are available to graduates of this program.
Tuition Information
Tuition for the 2023-2024 school year at GMU is $930 per graduate credit hour. There is an added charge of $35 per credit hour for distance education fees for online students. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if you can receive assistance in paying for online graduate school. Tuition waivers, merit aid and grants are also possible options for financial aid.
Contact Information
For additional information on George Mason University’s Master of Science in Data Analytics Engineering-Machine Learning Engineering online program, contact the Digital Learning office at (703) 348-5006 or [email protected], or Admissions at (703) 993-2400 or [email protected].