This program evaluation and data analytics master’s builds interdisciplinary expertise at the intersection of statistics, computer science and management. You’ll learn how to use a variety of data tools and implement rigorous approaches to collecting, analyzing and interpreting data within public organizations. This includes creating visualizations, dashboards and automated reports to support decision-making. As a graduate, you can enhance organizational performance by gathering better data, improving the use of existing data, formally evaluating programs and implementing actions based on findings.
Prepare for careers in a variety of industries
The curriculum explores two fields: program evaluation, which focuses on using tools to assess policy or program impact, and data science. With an understanding of both, you’ll possess diverse knowledge that complements careers within think tanks, research groups, consulting groups and government agencies at all levels. You can also pursue data-driven roles in nonprofits and international development agencies to measure program effectiveness or enhance monitoring and evaluation capacity.
Unlike most data analytics curricula, this program stands out because it focuses on applications in the public and nonprofit sectors. The coursework explores common performance challenges and provides you with data-driven approaches to designing solutions. This can give you a leg up when pursuing positions in these sectors upon graduation. You’ll be equipped to help organizations leverage the power of data to make a positive social impact.
Who’s a good candidate for this program?
Ideal candidates include those with social science or management knowledge seeking a broader skill set in advanced data analytics. This master’s is also an excellent choice for those with data analytics experience who want to apply their technical skills to the public sector. Regardless of your academic or professional background, you’ve found the right program if you’re passionate about using data to drive social and organizational change.
As an applicant, you don’t need prior computer programming knowledge, but you must have a rudimentary knowledge of the R language, such as through a basic tutorial. Additionally, this program leans heavily into the intuition behind data analysis, as well as interpreting results and translating them to real-world applications in the public sector. This master’s is an ideal choice if you’re looking to refine both quantitative and qualitative skills.
Are you passionate about applying data insights to drive organizational performance improvements? This online Master of Science in program evaluation and data analytics from Arizona State University prepares you to make a positive social impact through data and evidence-based decision-making. Upon graduating, your critical thinking and analytical skills will be in high demand by employers across all industries, particularly in the public and nonprofit sectors.
In this program, you’ll take courses that build your understanding of key principles from the program evaluation and data analytics fields. Foundational program evaluation courses will cover multiple regression, research design and advanced regression tools. Core data analytics courses will introduce you to data programming in R, data wrangling and project management. The program culminates in an applied project where you’ll apply what you’ve learned in a real scenario with a client.
The impressive faculty in the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions inspire the next generation of public service leaders through real-world solutions to issues in areas such as child welfare, safety, city management, human trafficking and water scarcity. Faculty highlights include:
- Fellow of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences.
- Fellow of the American Psychological Association.
- Member of the National Academy of Public Administration.
The Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions is a comprehensive public service college dedicated to addressing social problems through teaching, research and service. Our programs, which range from public policy and social work to criminal justice and emergency management, are designed to prepare graduates to make a difference in their communities.
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Applicants to the Master of Science in program evaluation and data analytics degree must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions.
Applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in the last 60 hours of their bachelor's program. Alternatively, applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in an applicable master’s degree program.
Additionally, prospective students must complete an introductory tutorial on the R programming language before enrolling in classes if they aren't familiar with the program.
All applicants must submit:
- Graduate admission application and application fee.
- Official transcripts.
- Personal statement.
- Proof of completed undergraduate or graduate course in statistics, having earned at least a “B” grade (or 3.00 GPA equivalent).
- Two letters of recommendation.
An applicant whose native language is not English (regardless of current residency) must provide proof of English proficiency.
The letters of recommendation should be from former instructors who can attest to the applicant’s academic potential.
The personal statement should be one to two pages in length and include any relevant experience that demonstrates the applicant’s ability to succeed in a technical, skills-based degree program. The personal statement is also an opportunity to explain a low GPA, share your career goals or describe any important information that’s not included elsewhere in the application.
GRE or other test scores aren’t required for admission.
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”