Computational and Data Sciences, M.S.

In the Master of Science in Computational and Data Sciences program, students will learn to apply techniques including machine learning, high performance computing, time series analysis and image processing to answer the world’s most complex questions in fields such as bioinformatics, climate modeling, drug design, economic science and predictive analytics. Students will also be prepared for a career in the exploding new field of data science.

Admission to the program and prerequisites

An undergraduate degree specifically in computational science is not required for admission. The program will consider applicants from a broad range of undergraduate and master’s level science disciplines (e.g. biology, chemistry, computer science, biochemistry and molecular biology, mathematics, physics). Admission will depend on the relationship between the student’s goals and the program’s objectives as well as the likelihood that the student will benefit from the program.

Admission to the program may be achieved by the completion of the following requirements:

1. Online application for admission (which includes $60 non-refundable application fee).
2. Official transcript from degree granting institution.
3. Graduate Record Examination (GRE) - general test scores are required and must have been taken within the last five years. Applicants must achieve the following minimum scores: Verbal 153, Quantitative 146, Analytical Writing 4.0.
4. Statement of intent - a 750 word essay. Applicants are expected to address science topics they are interested in and how they envision applying computational science in those areas.
5. Two letters of recommendation.
6. A resume or curriculum vitae.

International application requirements

Language Test
Because our programs are taught completely in English and the classroom experience will require a strong understanding of the English language, we require all our students to have strong English language skills. Chapman does not have an ESL program for international students on campus - international students who are non-native English speakers need to demonstrate English proficiency at the time of admission.

Applicants who have completed their degree (Bachelor and Graduate) at an institution where English was not the primary language of instruction must submit minimum scores from one of the following English language exams:

• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): 550 (PBT) or 80 (iBT) (Institution Code: 4047)
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS): 6.5
• Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic): 53
• Cambridge English Advanced Exam (CAE): Level C1

Exam scores must come directly from the testing agency to Chapman University and have been taken within two years of the date of application.

Official Transcripts and Diploma

• Your application requires official transcripts in both the native language, and in English. If your university does not provide translations of your transcript, you will need to have your transcript translated, line-by-line and word-for-word exactly. You will need to submit both the official transcript and the official translation.
• If your university only provides one official transcript, you will need to submit a notarized copy. You will need to take your official transcript and have certified copies made, and translated into English if needed. These documents should be stamped by the legal notary who made the copy and/or translation. We do not accept uncertified copies directly from students. Please note that official documents will be required upon acceptance.
• While your diploma will not be required with your application, your enrollment into Chapman University will be dependent upon submission of your official diploma. Should you be admitted, your diploma will need to be submitted in both the native language, and in English. You will need to submit both the official diploma and the official translation. If your university only provides one official diploma, you may send a notarized copy, or bring the original documents into our office at the time classes begin.

GPA Evaluation
Once your transcripts are received, Chapman University will conduct an in-house evaluation of your credentials to determine your U.S. equivalent GPA.

Supplemental Application

• The International Supplemental Application is the financial certification form that provides comprehensive information about your passport, I-20 requirements, and financial support for your studies. This form is required for F-1 student visa applicants.
• Should you be admitted into our program, you will be sent information on how to access the Supplemental Application.
• If you hold a U.S. passport, or are a permanent resident, you do not need to submit this document. You will apply as a domestic student.

Transfer policy

Students admitted to the M.S. in Computational and Data Sciences degree program may transfer up to six credits completed toward M.S. degree coursework upon approval by the program director and the dean of the college. (See Academic Policies and Procedures  for transfer policies.)

Prerequisites

Equivalent preparation (or foundation courses) may be used to satisfy the following requirements:

1. Differential Equations
2. Computer Programming; Data Structures preferred
3. Probability and Statistics

Foundation courses

For admitted students who have verified potential, but require supplementary support for success in the CADS program. These classes may be added to the student’s program of study, but they may not substitute for any other degree requirements.

• CS 501 - Introductory Computation for Scientists
    3 credits
• CS 502 - Applied Methods in Mathematics
    3 credits
• CS 503 - Statistical Methods
    3 credits

Requirements for the Master of Science in Computational and Data Sciences degree

Students pursuing the Master of Science in Computational and Data Sciences are held to the University’s Academic Policies and Procedures. In addition, these specific degree standards apply:

• Completion of prerequisite or foundation courses
• Minimum grade “C+” or above required in all coursework.
• Maintain 3.000 GPA in the degree.
• Complete the thesis or non-thesis option.

The following courses make up the M.S. in Computational and Data Sciences curriculum: