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Data Science, Certificate

Gain cutting-edge expertise in one of the world’s fastest-growing industries with a career-focused Graduate Certificate in Data Science. Our flexible program equips you with the technical, professional and analytical training you need to extract valuable insights and drive organizational strategies.

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About this Program

Gain Data Science Expertise With Our Flexible, Career-Focused Certificate

Data powers today’s world—organizations need skilled professionals to analyze complex information, identify trends and shape strategy. Seattle University’s Graduate Certificate in Data Science helps you enter this high-demand field or advance your career.

Why Seattle University?

  • Comprehensive, Interdisciplinary Curriculum – Gain expertise in statistics, computer science, data analysis, modeling and more.
  • Flexible Learning – Choose online or on-campus courses to fit your schedule.
  • Accelerated Timeline – Complete the program in as little as two academic quarters.
  • Strong Industry Connections – Build your network in Seattle’s thriving tech hub with our industry-aligned program.
  • Seamless Pathway to a Master’s – Apply your credits toward Seattle U’s MS in Data Science upon successful completion of the certificate.

Get the skills. Make an impact. Fast-track your future.

Note: Seattle University is in the process of applying for federal financial aid eligibility, and we expect approval prior to the start of fall term. Until then, this program is not eligible for federal aid.

Program Requirements at a Glance

The Graduate Certificate in Data Science can be completed in as little as two academic quarters.* Learn more about admission to the program, course requirements and learning outcomes below.

*Additional detail under Required Courses.

REQUIRED

  • Application: Completed application for graduate admission.
  • Transcripts: Official transcripts of all post-secondary education institutions attended in the last 90-quarter/60-semester credits of the bachelor’s degree, including any transfer credits earned during this time and any post-baccalaureate coursework. Unofficial transcripts can be used for the admissions process if official transcripts are unavailable.
  • Academic Background: Successful applicants can come from all backgrounds but have completed the undergraduate courses listed below. See descriptions in the course catalog.
    • Elementary Probability and Statistics (such as MATH 2310)
    • Programming course in Python (such as CPSC 1220)
    • Integral Calculus (such as MATH 1335)
  • Resume or CV
  • GRE: The GRE is not required for most students. Students subject to the Three-Year Baccalaureate Degree policy or who have earned degrees from institutions issuing non-graded transcripts must submit official results from the GRE (Code 4695) or GMAT (Code 5613) to be considered.
  • Deposit: Upon admission, this program requires a non-refundable $250 deposit to confirm your space. The deposit will be applied toward your first quarter tuition bill.

OPTIONAL

  • Personal Statement: A 300-word essay on one of the following topics: the job you would like to have after graduating OR a problem you would like to solve, or have already solved, using analytical skills.

International Students: International students may be required to submit additional materials in order to have their applications evaluated. If English is not the applicant’s native language, a demonstration of English proficiency meeting the university’s entrance requirements must be submitted. Please visit the International Admissions page for complete information.

  • DATA 5100: Foundations of Data Science
  • CPSC 5070: Programming for Data Science
  • CPSC 5071: Data Management for Data Science
  • DATA 5321: Statistical Machine Learning I

Program Duration: Courses for the Graduate Certificate in Data Science are offered only in the fall and winter academic quarters. Students who enroll in two courses per quarter can complete the certificate in two academic quarters, while students who enroll in only one course per quarter will complete the certificate over two academic years. 

Upon successful completion of the program, you'll be able to:

  • Apply appropriate analytical and computational methods to solve real-world problems effectively.
  • Communicate technical information effectively to a specific audience via speech, writing and data visualization.
  • Exhibit constructive and inclusive collaboration and teamwork skills.

This program is approved by the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to fall within the definition of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). However, because it is a certificate program, the 24-month STEM OPT extension does not apply.

International students who wish to complete the program from their respective country are eligible to complete it in an online format.

Career Outlook

1,122

Annual Job Openings

More than 1,100 job openings for data science professionals are projected in Washington state each year between now and 2031 (WA Employment Security Department, 2024).

36%

Projected Job Growth

Demand for data science professionals is expected to increase by 36 percent nationwide over the next decade (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024).

#2

Best City for STEM Careers

Seattle is the second-best US city for STEM professionals according to a new study comparing the number of job openings for STEM graduates, median wages, quality of life and more (WalletHub, 2024).

Virtual Information Sessions

Have questions about Seattle University's Data Science Certificate? Attend a one-hour virtual information session to learn more about graduate programs in the College of Science and Engineering, meet a knowledgeable admissions representative and get answers to your questions about the program, the application process and more.

Seattle University student working on a laptop.

A Program Designed with Your Success in Mind

Seattle University Student Typing on a Laptop

Flexibility for Working Professionals

Balance Your Education and Your Career

As a student in Seattle University's Data Science Certificate program, you can enroll either full- or part-time. Students enrolled full-time can complete the certificate is just two academic quarters. Our in-person courses are taught in the evenings, while online classes are offered asynchronously—meaning you can complete coursework on your own schedule. 

Graduate students walking

Master of Science in Data Science

Take Your Education Further

Looking for a full master’s program? Our Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS) provides both advanced technical training and professional skill development, so you'll gain the expertise needed to advance your career in the highly competitive tech industry. Similar to the certificate, the MSDS program is offered both online and in-person.

If you complete the Graduate Certificate in Data Science and want to continue your education, you can seamlessly transition into the master’s program. All certificate credits count toward the MS in Data Science, allowing you to build on your knowledge without repeating coursework.

20%

Average Salary Increase

Data science professionals with a master’s degree earn an average of 20 percent more than those with only a bachelor’s (NACE, 2023).

Employers of SU MSDS graduates

Industry Aligned. Industry Connected.

Build In-Demand Skills and Valuable Career Connections

Seattle University works with local and national tech and business partners to develop a curriculum that's relevant to today's job market. This collaborative approach ensures that the knowledge and skills you gain at SU are highly applicable to current industry trends and in demand among leading employers. Our graduates thrive in Seattle's dynamic tech landscape and are employed by some of the region’s most influential companies, including Amazon, Boeing, Meta, Microsoft, Google, Starbucks, The Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Microsoft, Tableau and others.

Hear From Our Alumni

Fidan Aydamirova

"The faculty at Seattle U is truly exceptional, combining deep expertise with a genuine commitment to student engagement and growth. Working closely with some of the best professors at the university, I witnessed an unwavering dedication to student success and willingness to provide guidance and mentorship. If you're looking to advance your education… I highly recommend Seattle U."

MSDS '23

Frequently Asked Questions

Completion of the certificate is not required for enrollment in the MS in Data Science program. However, if you're not quite ready to pursue a full master's degree, the certificate provides an alternative option to advance your education. Upon successful completion of the certificate, students can enroll directly in the MS in Data Science. All credits earned in the certificate program can be applied toward the full master's degree, meaning you don't have to repeat courses.

The Data Science Certificate offers one start term per year in the fall quarter. The program can be completed in as little as two academic quarters for students who enroll in two courses per quarter. Students who wish to enroll in only one course per quarter will complete the certificate over two academic years, as courses are offered only in the fall and winter quarters.

All courses offered in the certificate program are available both online and in-person. You'll work with an advisor to identify a course schedule and modality that best suits you.

Yes! The Graduate Certificate in Data Science is designed with working professionals in mind. Our online and in-person learning formats, combined with evening course options, and full- and part-time enrollment provide the flexibility you need to balance school, work and your personal commitments.

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Get in Touch

We’re here to help. For information about data science graduate degrees and certificates at Seattle University, contact:

Mathematics Department