MS in Big Data Analytics, San Diego State University

San Diego, California

24 Months

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About this course

The SDSU Big Data Analytics (BDA) Program is a two-year, transdisciplinary Master's degree designed to equip students with skills in data science and analytics across various domains such as technology, business, engineering, science, and social science. The program emphasizes a collaborative, active learning environment and aims to meet the growing demand for data analytic professionals. It offers a flexible and low-cost education that can be tailored to individual student needs through a customizable Program of Studies. Located in San Diego, a vibrant city known for its educational opportunities, SDSU's program combines computational skills and analytical methods to prepare students for research and business opportunities in big data across multiple disciplines.

Why this course is highly recommended

The SDSU BDA program stands out for its inclusivity, welcoming students from backgrounds beyond engineering or computer science, such as social sciences, arts, business, and biology. Its affordability and flexibility make it accessible and adaptable to individual career goals. Located in California’s top-ranking university system, SDSU’s reputation for entrepreneurship and innovation adds further value. The program aims to produce technically competent students capable of exploring research and business opportunities in big data, combining computational expertise with business concepts for diverse application fields.

Specialisation

The program is designed to develop competencies in managing and analyzing Big Data applications using appropriate programming tools, statistical models, and analytic software. Students learn both computational skills such as programming languages and software, and analytical methods including data mining, machine learning, and spatiotemporal analysis. The curriculum prepares students to formulate research hypotheses and guide decision-making processes, with a focus on diverse application domains like information technology, GIS, social sciences, digital humanities, public health, business analytics, and biotechnology.

Course fees

Application fees

0.00L

1st year tuition fees

Living cost

Degree requirements

Graduates will be able to articulate principles of statistical inference and data analysis, apply computational skills to real-world data challenges, demonstrate proficiency with data analytic software, and effectively communicate data analysis results. Additionally, they will understand research challenges related to data ethics, privacy, and legal issues involved in big data activities.

English language test

DUOLINGO

105

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

Career prospects

Graduates of the SDSU BDA program will be equipped to work in roles involving data collection, cleaning, organizing, analysis, and modeling across various sectors. Their skills will enable them to lead in organizations that utilize big data for research and business applications, and to identify research opportunities across disciplines like healthcare, social sciences, digital humanities, and more.

FAQs

Is there a requirement for GRE or GMAT scores?

Yes, for Fall 2025 admission, a GRE or GMAT score is required for applicants with an undergraduate GPA below 3.2 or with a degree in a non-quantitative field such as business, economics, GIScience, computer science, engineering, mathematics, biology, or physical sciences.

When does the program begin accepting applications?

Applications open on October 1 each year, with rolling admissions. Early application submission is encouraged for priority consideration, which is given if submitted by December 31.