MSDADS · Current · 32 CUs

Master of Science, Data Analytics - Data Science

Source: WGU Program Guide·v202408·5/15/24

About This Degree

WGU Catalog 2026-03
The MS Data Analytics degree prepares a diverse range of professionals for thriving careers in the dynamic field of data analytics. By arming graduates with the competencies needed to tackle business challenges through data mining, predictive analysis, analytics deployment, and compelling data storytelling techniques, the MSDA ensures they are well-prepared for success. Emphasizing both theory and practical application, the curriculum fosters the development of skills necessary to drive impactful change within organizations spanning various industries and sectors. The Data Science concentration enhances mastery in statistical and programming methodologies, delving into the advanced topics advanced analytics professionals will need such as machine learning, neural networks, and numerical optimization. The program includes a concentration-specific capstone, providing an opportunity for students to showcase their skills in a comprehensive manner.

Official catalog text — WGU-authored.

Degree History

First offered2024-06StatusCurrentCUs32

Program Learning Outcomes

WGU Catalog 2026-03

Official WGU-authored outcomes from the catalog Program Outcomes section.

  • •The graduate will develop expertise in applying data analytics life cycles, including data mining, statistical modeling, and predictive analytics. They will be proficient in using both supervised and unsupervised machine learning techniques, such as regression analysis, classification models, clustering, and dimensional reduction, to derive actionable insights from complex datasets.
  • •The graduate will possess strong competencies in data management, including the ability to work with both relational and non-relational databases. They will be capable of designing and implementing data storage architectures, performing complex data queries using SQL, and managing data integrity and quality throughout the analytics process.
  • •The graduate will demonstrate advanced programming skills in languages such as Python and R, enabling them to perform data acquisition, preparation, exploration, and the development of analytical models. They will be adept at leveraging programming libraries and frameworks for tasks such as statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualization.

Areas of Study

2 groups · 11 courses

Course groups from the WGU Program Guide. Expand each group to see course descriptions and competencies.

Course Roster (11 courses)

WGU Catalog 2026-03

Term 1

CodeTitleCUs
D596The Data Analytics Journey2
D597Data Management3
D598Analytics Programming3

Term 2

CodeTitleCUs
D599Data Preparation and Exploration3
D600Statistical Data Mining3
D601Data Storytelling for Varied Audiences3

Term 3

CodeTitleCUs
D602Deployment3
D603Machine Learning3
D604Advanced Analytics3

Term 4

CodeTitleCUs
D605Optimization3
D606Data Science Capstone3

Total: 32 CUs across 11 courses. Degree total per catalog: 32 CUs.