Transform Information Into Impact
The Master of Science in Data Analytics (MSDA) degree program at Missouri Southern State University prepares you to turn raw numbers into real results. As more industries depend on data to shape strategy and solve complex problems, the need for professionals who can analyze, interpret and communicate insights is growing fast. Whether you aim to lead analytics teams or support executive decision-making to bring data-driven thinking into your current position, the STEM-classified MS in Data Analytics degree program gives you the skills to use data to recommend strategic choices and position yourself for high-paying, in-demand roles.
Our STEM-classified curriculum of 10 courses (30 credit hour) contains 6 MSDA core courses and 4 specialization courses in the Business Analytics track. To accommodate students from a variety of academic backgrounds, the four track courses are available in two options: one to accommodate students with an earned business degree, and another that assumes no prior knowledge of business.
Student Learning Outcomes
The MS in Data Analytics program prepares students to:
During the fall and spring semesters, the six core courses are offered in our
HyFlex modality that allows students to complete coursework in one of three
ways (or any combination):
The six core courses required are as follows:
Data 580 Portfolio
During the final semester of the program, all Master of Science in Data Analytics students must submit a portfolio showcasing data analytics research and applied skills upon completing the required coursework. The portfolio is a culmination of the student’s academic work, demonstrating the student's proficiency in data analytics and ability to apply theoretical concepts to real-world problems. It highlights the students' achievements, methodologies, and competencies developed during the students' studies, aligned with the program’s learning objectives.
The four (4) track courses are offered in the online asynchronous (non-live) modality, meaning you will watch pre-recorded lectures and complete assignments. While the asynchronous format means there are no set class meeting times, there may still be times where your instructor may require you to complete activities - exams, presentations, etc. - synchronously (live) as a class. The time requirements for any synchronous course activities will always be announced well in advance of any due dates.
Students with a business degree will complete the following four track courses to
build on prior business knowledge:
Students without a business degree will complete the following four track courses
to introduce them to business concepts:
To apply to the Master of Science in Data Analytics program, you must hold a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a regionally accredited college or university or an equivalent international institution, with a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher. In addition, you must provide documentation of one of the following:
Conditional Admission: An applicant who does not fully meet the requirements for admission as a regular graduate student, at the discretion of the Program Director, may be allowed to enroll in the graduate program under a conditional acceptance status.
Students applying from outside the U.S. whose native language is not English must submit TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo scores.
Note: Applicants who have taken classes outside the U.S. may have their transcripts evaluated by MSSU Admissions. MSSU requires a GPA equivalency. If MSSU Admissions is unable to determine a GPA or the applicant disagrees with the evaluation, they may submit their transcript to an approved third-party evaluation service.
International Admissions