COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science (MS) in Mathematical Data Science at Wichita State University is a 30-credit-hour graduate program designed to build strong foundations in statistics, mathematics, computing, and modern data science techniques. To complete the degree, students must take six required core courses totaling 18 credit hours. These core courses include Introduction to Data Analytics (MATH 746), Introduction to Business Analytics (BSAN 775), Perspectives on Data Science (CS 746), Machine Learning (CS 770), and either Mathematical Models (MATH 553) or Optimization Theory (MATH 657), along with a required Data Analytics Capstone (MATH 802). Together, these courses provide training in statistical reasoning, optimization, computational methods, and applied machine learning, ensuring students develop both theoretical understanding and practical data analysis skills. In addition to the core requirements, students must complete 6 credit hours of statistical electives, chosen from courses such as Applied Regression Analysis, Analysis of Variance, and Applied Statistical Methods I and II, which strengthen expertise in statistical modeling and inference. The program also requires 3 credit hours from a computing elective group, where students select one course such as Statistical Computing I, Numerical Linear Algebra, Computational Methods for Physics, or Design and Analysis of Algorithms, depending on their technical focus. Finally, students complete an additional 3 credit hours from a flexible elective category that may include courses like Matrix Theory, Database Management Systems, Big Data Analytics in Engineering, or Prescriptive Analytics with Python, allowing specialization in areas such as databases, optimization, or advanced analytics tools. The structure of the program ensures a balanced combination of mathematics, statistics, and computing, preparing graduates for careers in data science, machine learning, business analytics, research, and computational problem-solving across industries. Overall, the MS in Mathematical Data Science at Wichita State is designed to develop strong analytical thinkers who can apply mathematical and computational methods to real-world data challenges in both academic and professional environments.