University of Bay Area

Master's in Applied Data Science

The Master’s in Applied Data Science at the University of Bay Area (UBA) is designed for a diverse community of students who are passionate about building careers at the intersection of data, technology, and innovation. No matter your starting point, if you have the drive, we have the tools to help you succeed.

Recent Graduates and Working Professionals

Whether you are newly graduating or already established in your career, this program offers a pathway to advanced skills and greater career opportunities.

STEM and Non-STEM Backgrounds

Applicants with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) degrees are ideal candidates, but we also welcome those from non-technical fields who have demonstrated technical skills through bootcamps, certifications, or professional experience.

Career Changers and Up-Skillers

If you are seeking to pivot into the fast-growing tech industry or deepen your data science expertise within your current field, this program provides a streamlined, practical path to do so.

Entrepreneurs and Innovators

If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, innovator, or creative problem-solver looking to leverage AI, big data, and machine learning for business or social impact, you'll find the tools and mentorship you need here.

Analytical Thinkers and Problem Solvers

Students who enjoy analyzing information, discovering insights, and building data-driven solutions will excel in our hands-on, real-world focused curriculum.

Working Professionals Seeking Flexibility

Our evening classes and industry-focused program are ideal for those balancing full-time work and education, allowing you to advance your career without pausing your professional growth.

Lifelong Learners Committed to Growth

If you believe in continuous learning, technological exploration, and staying ahead in a rapidly changing world, you’ll thrive at UBA.

Aspiring Data Scientists Ready to Lead

If you’re looking to become a leader in fields like technology, finance, health care, media, cybersecurity, energy, and beyond, this program is designed to launch you into a successful and impactful career.

The Master’s in Applied Data Science at the University of Bay Area offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip you with the skills needed to excel in today’s data-driven world. Over the course of 36 units, you will dive deep into key areas of data science, from foundational statistics to cutting-edge AI and machine learning techniques.

Core Courses (36 Units):

1. Probability and Statistics for Data Science
   Understand the fundamental principles of probability and statistics, focusing on their applications in data science.
2. Programming with Python
   Learn the essential programming skills in Python, one of the most widely used languages for data science.
3. Statistical Inference and Stochastic Processes
   Explore statistical methods and stochastic processes for analyzing and making predictions from data.
4. Data Collection and Data Management Systems
   Gain expertise in designing and managing data collection systems and ensuring the quality and integrity of datasets.
5. Data Visualization for Data Science
   Master the art of presenting complex data insights clearly through powerful data visualization techniques.
6. Time Series Analysis & Forecasting
   Learn how to analyze time-dependent data and develop predictive models for forecasting future trends.
7. Advanced Causal Inference
   Dive into advanced methods for identifying and estimating causal relationships in data.
8. Design and Analysis of Experiments in Data Science
   Study experimental design and statistical methods for analyzing data from controlled experiments.
9. Advanced Topics in Machine Learning
   Explore cutting-edge topics in machine learning, including deep learning, reinforcement learning, and model evaluation techniques.
10. Neural Networks and Deep Learning
    Understand the theory and application of neural networks, a cornerstone of modern AI, and deep learning models like convolutional and recurrent neural networks.
11. Big Data: Mining Massive Data Sets
    Learn how to process and analyze large-scale datasets using big data tools and techniques.
12. Advancements in AI: Anatomy of ChatGPT
    Investigate the latest advancements in AI, including the inner workings of models like ChatGPT and their impact on the future of data science.

This curriculum provides a strong foundation in data science, coupled with exposure to the latest AI innovations, preparing you for a successful career in the tech industry. Hands-on projects and real-world applications are integrated throughout the program to ensure that you are ready to solve complex problems in any data science role.

Upon successful completion of the Master’s in Applied Data Science program at the University of Bay Area, students will have gained the knowledge, technical expertise, and real-world experience to excel in the dynamic field of data science. Graduates will be able to:

1. Attain the Skills to Work as a Data Scientist
   Develop the practical and theoretical skills needed to become a proficient data scientist in a wide range of industries, from technology to healthcare.
2. Master Data Science Techniques
   Gain a deep understanding of core data science methods, including statistical analysis, data visualization, predictive modeling, and machine learning, ensuring readiness for real-world challenges.
3. Program in Python for Data Science
   Use Python — the leading programming language in the field — to write efficient, scalable programs for data manipulation, analysis, and visualization.
4. Work with Databases and Large Data Sets
   Acquire hands-on experience in working with databases and large-scale datasets using tools like SQL, NoSQL, and big data technologies such as Apache Hadoop and Spark.
5. Manipulate Big Data Infrastructure
   Understand the design and management of big data infrastructure, and develop the ability to work within distributed systems to process and analyze vast amounts of data.
6. Apply Machine Learning and Data Mining Techniques
   Build the skills to implement machine learning algorithms and data mining techniques, allowing you to make predictions, classify data, and uncover insights from complex data sets.
7. Leverage Advanced AI and Deep Learning Models
   Develop expertise in neural networks and deep learning, gaining proficiency in the use of cutting-edge AI techniques to solve complex problems and build advanced models.
8. Apply Techniques to Real-World Applications
   Gain the ability to apply learned data science techniques to real-world challenges, providing actionable insights and driving decision-making in any business or technical environment.

Career Outcomes

Graduates will be well-equipped to pursue careers in top-tier tech companies, research institutions, and beyond. Some possible job titles include:

• Data Scientist
• Machine Learning Engineer
• Data Analyst
• AI Specialist
• Big Data Engineer
• Quantitative Analyst
• Business Intelligence Analyst

With a combination of theoretical knowledge, hands-on experience, and industry connections, our program ensures that students are ready to thrive in the competitive world of data science.

The Master’s in Applied Data Science program at the University of Bay Area is carefully designed to prepare students for dynamic and rewarding careers across a broad range of industries. As the demand for skilled data scientists continues to grow, graduates of this program will be uniquely positioned to step into high-impact roles in both established companies and emerging sectors.

With a master’s degree in Applied Data Science, students will qualify for a variety of advanced positions in the private, public, and nonprofit sectors, bringing critical data-driven insights to organizations of all kinds. Graduates will not only have strong technical skills but also the business acumen and real-world experience that employers value highly.

Industries Where Our Graduates Thrive:

• Technology (including FAANG and Silicon Valley startups)
• Financial Services (banking, insurance, investment firms)
• Retail and E-Commerce (customer behavior analytics, inventory optimization)
• Media and Entertainment (audience analysis, content recommendation systems)
• Healthcare and Life Sciences (medical research, health data analytics, personalized medicine)
• Telecommunications (network optimization, customer churn prediction)
• Manufacturing and Supply Chain (predictive maintenance, supply chain forecasting)
• Cybersecurity (threat detection, risk analysis)
• Government and Military (policy planning, intelligence analytics, defense systems)
• Energy and Utilities (smart grid analytics, resource management)
• Automotive and Transportation (autonomous vehicle development, route optimization)

Potential Job Titles Include:

• Data Scientist
• Machine Learning Engineer
• Data Analyst
• Big Data Engineer
• Artificial Intelligence Specialist
• Quantitative Analyst
• Business Intelligence Analyst
• Data Science Consultant
• Research Scientist
• Product Data Analyst

Graduates will also benefit from the University of Bay Area’s strong connections to Silicon Valley companies, opening the door to exceptional opportunities for internships, mentorships, and full-time roles at some of the world’s most influential organizations.

Our Career Development team offers personalized support throughout your journey — from building a standout resume and preparing for interviews to networking with top companies and securing the career you deserve.

At the University of Bay Area (UBA), we are committed to providing high-quality, accessible education that sets you up for success in today’s fast-moving data-driven world. Here’s why UBA is the ideal place to launch or accelerate your career:

Guaranteed Scholarships

Apply by May 31st and, if accepted, you are guaranteed a full-tuition scholarship. Even after the deadline, outstanding applicants still have the opportunity to earn full or partial scholarships based on merit and fit.

Deep Industry Connections

Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, UBA has strong ties with top companies, including FAANG (Facebook, Amazon, Apple, Netflix, Google) and other major tech innovators. Our partnerships open doors to internships, mentorships, and full-time roles at some of the most prestigious organizations in the world.

Career-First Approach

Unlike many universities, UBA offers personalized career support throughout your entire journey—from resume development to exclusive job applications, mock interviews, and direct job placement assistance.

Flexible for Working Professionals

We understand that many of our students are balancing work and study. That’s why we offer evening classes and a streamlined, efficient application process, making it easier than ever to advance your education without putting your career on hold.

World-Class Faculty

Learn directly from Dr. Denkabe, a seasoned expert with degrees from UC Berkeley and NYU, and leadership experience at companies like Intel, Visa, and Chime. You’ll benefit from mentorship rooted in real-world experience and innovation.

Affordable, High-Quality Education

Our tuition is already competitively priced—about half the cost of many private universities—and with unlimited scholarships available, a world-class education is within your reach.

Personalized Attention

With a 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio and small class sizes, you’ll receive the individualized support and mentorship needed to thrive. At UBA, you're never just a number—you’re part of a community building the future together.

At the University of Bay Area (UBA), we designed the Master’s in Applied Data Science program to fit the lives of ambitious, working professionals—without compromising academic rigor or industry relevance.

Flexible Evening Classes

Courses are held during the afternoon and evening hours, allowing you to maintain your daytime job while pursuing your master’s degree. This flexible schedule makes it possible to balance work, study, and personal commitments.

In-Person Learning in Silicon Valley

Classes are conducted on-campus in San Jose, CA, placing you right in the heart of Silicon Valley. You'll benefit from face-to-face instruction, networking opportunities, and easy access to some of the world’s leading tech companies.

Hands-On, Practical Curriculum

Learning at UBA goes beyond textbooks. You will engage in real-world projects, case studies, and industry collaborations that mirror the challenges faced by data science professionals today.

Small Class Sizes for Personalized Attention

With a 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio, classes are intentionally kept small to ensure personalized instruction, meaningful interactions, and tailored feedback from instructors and peers.

Industry-Led Instruction

Courses are taught by seasoned professionals, ensuring that your education is aligned with industry standards and focused on the latest advancements in data science and artificial intelligence.