¶¶Òõ̽̽

Program Overview

If you're looking to get your data science M.S. but don't have years to invest in a degree program, this certificate program is for you. We provide students with a broad training in computation and theoretical techniques for describing and understanding complex natural and sociotechnical systems and enabling them to (as possible) predict, control, manage, and create such systems.

You will learn:

• Data wrangling: Methods of data acquisition, storage, manipulation, and curation
• Visualization techniques, with a potential for building high quality web-based applications
• Uncovering complex patterns and correlations in systems through data-fueled machine learning and genetic programming
• Powerful ways of identifying and extracting explanatory, mechanistic stories underlying complex systems—not just how to use black box techniques

Curriculum

The Certificate requirement is 5 courses (15 credits), with a minimum GPA of 3.0 in all 5 courses.

Structure

3 required core courses; 1-2 A-list courses; 0-2 B-list courses
or
2 required core courses; 1-3 A-list courses; 0-2 B-list courses

Required Core Courses (3)

• CSYS/MATH 6701: Principles of Complex Systems
• CSYS/CS 6020: Modeling Complex Systems
• CSYS/STAT/CS 3870: QR: Data Science I

A-List Courses (Select 1 to 2)

• CSYS 5766: Chaos, Fractals, and Dynamical Systems
• CSYS/MATH 6713: Complex Networks
• CSYS/CS 6520: Evolutionary Computation
• CSYS/CS 3560: Neural Computation
• CSYS/STAT 5530: Appl Time Series & Forecasting
• CSYS/STAT/CEE 7980: Applied Geostatistics
• CSYS/CE 7920: Applied Artificial Neural Networks

B-List Courses (Select 0 to 2)

• CSYS/CS/STAT 6870: Data Science II
• MATH 5788: Mathematical Biology & Ecology
• MATH 5230: Adv. Ordinary Differential Equations
• CEE 3990: Reliability of Engineering Systems
• CEE 6990A: Data Analytics for Water Resources
• CSYS/ME 3990: Systems and Synthetic Biology
• ME 5410: Advanced Bioengineering Systems
• EE 5320: Smart Grid
• ME 6550: Multi-Scale Modeling
• CSYS/EE 6990: Optimization in Engineering
• PA 6080: Decision Making Models
• PA 6170: Systems Analysis and Strategic Management
• PA 6060: Policy Systems
• BIOL 3165: Evolution
• PBIO 5940: Ecological Modeling
• CS 3060: Evolutionary Robotics
• CS 3540: Machine Learning
• CS 6540: Deep Learning
• ENVS 4990: Envir. Modeling and Systems Thinking
• NR 385: Energy Systems Transitions
• PHYS 323: Phase Transitions and Critical Phenomena

Other courses may be approved by the Complex System and Data Science Curriculum Committee.

Deadlines

Fall admittance: Application deadline is August 1.
Spring admittance: Application deadline is December 31.

Admissions

The certificate can be earned by students as a complement for their graduate degrees across ¶¶Òõ̽̽, as a standalone post-baccalaureate Graduate Certificate. 

Prerequisites

A Bachelor's degree and demonstrated proficiency in:

• Calculus
• Probability and statistics
• Computer programming (Python, R, and Matlab will be most helpful)

Highly recommended (but not required):

• Linear algebra
• Note: specific electives may have additional prerequisites

Professor Peter Dodds is the Certificate's Program Graduate Coordinator. Our team at the Complex Systems Center will, along with each student's faculty advisor, help the candidate seekers navigate their path. If you're interested in the program or need advice, please email Charlie Brooks.

Costs and Funding

Tuition and Financial Aid

Choosing to continue your education and work toward your Certificate of Graduate Study in Complex Systems and Data Science is a big decision, both personally and financially. ¶¶Òõ̽̽'s Office of Student Financial Services is here to help you make an informed decision and equip you with the financial information, support, and resources you need during that process.

Tuition

Information associated with the Certificate of Graduate Study in Complex Systems can be found at the Student Financial Services (SFS) site:

Certificate Tuition and Fees information associated with the Certificate of Graduate Study in Complex Systems is available from Student Financial Services (SFS). 

Financial Aid

Federal or institutional financial aid is not available for students enrolled solely in a certificate program. Student Financial Services has details about other potential financing options for the certificate program.

More

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to take classes and work full-time?

Yes. You should plan to spend 5 to 20 hours per week on each class. Students find the discussion boards with fellow students and instructors to be very engaging. Your participation can take place anytime, including evenings and on weekends.

Can I transfer my credits from my Complex Systems and Data Science Certificate to a Master’s program?

Credits used for a Certificate of Graduate Study may be applied toward an appropriate master’s or doctoral degree at ¶¶Òõ̽̽, and conversely, credits applied toward a graduate degree at ¶¶Òõ̽̽ may be applied toward an appropriate Certificate of Graduate Study (i.e., credits may overlap between one certificate and one degree). Credits taken for one Certificate of Graduate Study may not be used to fulfill requirements for another Certificate of Graduate Study.

Is financial aid available for this program?

Federal or institutional financial aid is not available for students enrolled solely in a certificate program. The Student Financial Services website includes details about other potential financing options for the certificate program.

What are the prerequisites for the Certificate?

A Bachelor’s degree and demonstrated proficiency in:

• Calculus
• Probability and statistics
• Computer programming (Python, R, and Matlab will be most helpful)

Highly recommended (but not required):

• Linear algebra

Note: specific electives may have additional prerequisites