BOONE, N.C. — Appalachian State University has been recognized by Fortune in its list of “Best Master’s in Data Science Programs for 2024.” The business magazine ranked App State 11th in the nation for its Master of Science in applied data analytics program.
The 36-hour degree program, offered by App State’s Walker College of Business, was created in 2016 and provides students with the technical skills to work with data — and to do so within a business context. Graduates of the program understand and can apply data analytics concepts, techniques and tools to promote effective organizational decision-making and problem-solving.
“As evidenced by this latest Fortune ranking, App State stands as a national leader in higher education for innovative academic programs that prepare students to excel in dynamic and emerging fields,” said App State Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor Heather Hulburt Norris. “It also highlights the quality of App State’s Walker College of Business, whose graduates go on to serve their communities as business executives, data scientists, accountants and more.”
Fortune ranked the top 29 universities with the most exceptional data science master’s programs, based on three criteria:
- Selectivity score — which considered the average undergraduate grade-point average of incoming students and each program’s acceptance rate.
- Success score — which considered the programs’ retention and graduation rates.
- Demand score — which considered both the enrollment size of programs and the number of applicants for the most recent year.
In fall 2023, App State’s undergraduate GPA for incoming students of the program was 3.58, and the program accepted about 38% of the 133 students who applied. The 2022–23 retention and graduation rates for the program were both 98%.
“We are committed to aligning our business programs with student needs and industry demands in the rapidly evolving fields of data analysis and technology management,” said Dr. Sandra Vannoy, dean of the Walker College of Business. “We are pleased that our Master of Science in applied data analytics program is proving its merit not only through the achievements of our students and graduates but also through rankings like this one from Fortune.”
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, data science is the third-fastest growing occupation in the country, and many companies are willing to pay competitive salaries even for entry-level candidates. The bureau reports that the current mean salary for data scientists is $115,240.
“We are thrilled to see our Master of Science in applied data analytics program receive such prestigious recognition from Fortune,” said program director Dr. Jason Xiong, professor in App State’s Department of Computer Information Systems. “This honor not only underscores the exceptional quality of our curriculum and the relevance of our program in today’s data-driven world, but also shines a light on the incredible dedication and expertise of our graduate faculty and staff. Their unwavering commitment to excellence in education ensures our students are not just equipped with cutting-edge technical skills but are also prepared to lead with integrity and innovation in their communities and workplaces.”
Learn more about the M.S. in applied data analytics and other App State graduate programs at appstate.edu/academics/graduate.
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Applied Data Analytics: Master of Science Degree (MS)
Big data is shaping our lives and creating high demand for data scientists and analysts. Now is the time to capitalize on this growing opportunity and become job-ready with a Master of Science in Applied Data Analytics from App State.
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Walker College of Business
The Walker College of Business at Appalachian State University delivers transformational educational experiences that prepare and inspire students to be ethical, innovative and engaged business leaders who positively impact our community, both locally and globally. The college places emphasis on international experiences, sustainable business practices, entrepreneurial programs and real-world applications with industry. Enrolling approximately 3,000 undergraduates in 10 majors and 175 graduate students in three master's programs, the Walker College is accredited by AACSB International – the premier global accrediting body for schools of business.
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About Appalachian State University
As a premier public institution, Appalachian State University prepares students to lead purposeful lives. App State is one of 17 campuses in the University of North Carolina System, with a national reputation for innovative teaching and opening access to a high-quality, affordable education for all. The university enrolls more than 21,000 students, has a low student-to-faculty ratio and offers more than 150 undergraduate and 80 graduate majors at its Boone and Hickory campuses and through App State Online. Learn more at https://www.appstate.edu.
