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

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, cell 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 a $60 non-refundable application fee).
2. Official transcripts from degree conferring institution(s) including all post-baccalaureate graduate coursework and advanced degree (if applicable). A cumulative grade point average of 3.000 is required.
3. 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.
4. Two letters of recommendation.
5. A resume or curriculum vitae.

International Application Requirements

Chapman’s language of instruction is English. If you have not received a bachelor’s degree (or higher) at an institute where English was the language of instruction, you must demonstrate English proficiency by submitting official scores from an English language exam. You can find additional information here.

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 the 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 US 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 US 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

It is expected that students admitted to the CADS M.S. program will have completed substantial preparatory coursework as an undergraduate major or minor from a regionally accredited institution in one of the following disciplines, or the equivalent: Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Data Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or Software Engineering. Preparatory coursework must include the following courses or the equivalent:

1. Linear Algebra
2. Multivariable Calculus
3. Differential Equations
4. Computer Programming; Data Structures preferred (R, Python, and SQL)
5. Probability and Statistics (Distributions, Confidence Intervals, Hypothesis Testing, Linear Models)

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:

• Minimum grade “B-” 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: