Ph.D. in Data Science

The Ph.D. in Data Science program will provide the essential skills required to analyze big and complex data sets and equip students with a broad understanding of data challenges and opportunities, along with the research and inquiry skills necessary to independently conduct research and answer questions within their area of concentration.

To meet this goal, courses in the Ph.D. in Data Science Program curriculum are organized around interdisciplinary focal areas in computer science, engineering, mathematics, and statistics. Courses offered within this framework include traditional lecture-style, elearning, and special topics courses that introduce students to the latest theories, methods, and emerging issues; seminar series; and experiential learning through thesis research, (directed independent study and internship programs). Through this framework, students will gain proficiency in the application of scientific principles such as critical thinking, experimental design, data preprocessing and wrangling, data visualization, advanced statistical learning/data mining and machine learning, as well as a sense of professional and technical writing, and reporting, responsibility, and integrity.

Rowan University assesses the effectiveness of doctoral programs to ensure that participating students have the maximum opportunity to develop the foundational knowledge, skills and confidence to become creative independent researchers in their selected career path.

For more information about the courses taken as part of the PhD in Data Science, click here to view its program guide.

How can I qualify?

Students seeking a PhD in Data Science should have a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Statistics, or related field from an accredited institution of higher learning with a minimum undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale). Depending on the undergraduate area of study, completion of additional foundation courses may be required.

Students in the Master's program can transfer to the doctoral program. To qualify for the transfer, Master's students must have a cumulative MS GPA of 3.3 with no grade lower than a B at the end of the spring semester of their first Master's year.   If not, they may successfully complete the MS and then be allowed to transfer into the PhD program, completing the remaining coursework and graduation requirements.  Courses completed in the Master's program will be applied towards the PhD.  Students in the PhD program may choose to switch to the MS program if desired.

What can I gain from this program?

The PhD in Data Science is a rigorous academic program that seeks to set up doctoral students for success as researchers, scientists, and data science professionals. In addition to developing strong foundational knowledge about the field of data science, students will acquire the following skills:

• Expertise and experience to apply the theories and methodologies of data science to establish a basis for future research.
• Mastery of ethical data practices, methods, and procedures. 
• Ability to conduct independent, original research and acquire resources necessary to successfully execute a depth knowledge of a research project.
• Expository and oral communication skills.
• Engagement in professional outreach to advance the field.
• Ability to produce high-quality publishable research that advances understanding of important topics or problems.
• Ability to lead others in educational activities and research and development projects.

I want to apply!

If you would like to learn more about the application process and admission requirements for the PhD in Data Science at Rowan, please click here.