Technology

The analysis of big data in biological sciences can be applied to answer a wide variety of scientific questions. In this program, you’ll learn how to generate, analyze and manipulate big data using various statistical and computational toolsets. To analyze large data sets in the sciences, this program utilizes the Agave Cluster, which includes a large local pool of data center-class graphical processing units that are critical for running high dimensional models. Additionally, this program incorporates hands-on learning to ensure you develop an understanding of:

• Biological data analysis.
• Programming in open-access software such as Python, R and SQL.
• Technical writing.
• Writing Linux shell scripts for accessing high-performance computing resources.
• Writing scientific papers and statistical hypotheses.

Who is a good candidate for a biological data science master’s program?

You’ll be a good fit for this program if you have a background in biology and need more computational training, or have a background in computational sciences, seeking further knowledge of natural sciences. In this program, you’ll work with faculty members who have expertise in both areas and will help you bridge the gap between the two. However, this program is designed so that anyone with a bachelor’s degree from any background can be successful if there’s a desire to learn about life sciences.

Please note, this program focuses on computational sciences and therefore does not include hands-on training in a wet lab.

Is this program the same as a master’s in bioinformatics?

Bioinformatics and biological data science are closely related fields that overlap in their areas of study. A bioinformatics program focuses on developing and applying computational tools to analyze biological data. Whereas, this biological data science program emphasizes using statistical tools, mathematical models and theoretical methods to understand biological systems.

A bioinformatics program has a narrow focus on genetic and genomic data analysis to provide a highly specialized learning experience. Bioinformatics studies cover advanced skills such as gene sequence alignment, gene prediction and the analysis of genomic data. This biological data science program takes a broader approach and provides a comprehensive overview of data sets within many areas of biology ranging from molecular to ecology. This program is the right fit if you’re interested in gaining a more expansive set of skills that can be applied to various industries within life science.

The science of complex systems is a study of interactions. It is the interactions among our cells that enables them to collectively form an individual, the interactions among diverse plants and animals that produce a rich ecosystem. A complexity scientist studies these interactions, among genes, cells, species and people. 

What are complex adaptive systems?

We are surrounded by systems that are essential to our life and well being. Living organisms, ecosystems, corporations, societies, cities and even our bodies are complex adaptive systems. Complex systems are formed when different types of components interact in networks to create a whole that is greater than the sum of its parts. In our bodies, skin cells, blood cells, nerve cells, bone cells and other kinds of cells all interact to form an individual who does not behave like any of the cells they are made from. Plant and animal species interact as predators or prey to cycle nutrients and inhibit or encourage each other's growth in an ecosystem. Individuals, neighborhoods, businesses, utilities and local governments interact in cities.

Complex adaptive systems are organized as groups of components nested within components. In our bodies, different kinds of bone cells are organized into individual bones, which are organized in our skeletal system. The components of complex adaptive systems also transmit and process information, like the nervous system and immune system in our bodies. This enables complex adaptive systems to grow, evolve, adapt and die. Complex systems are at the core of all real-world challenges, ranging from health care and sustainability to engineering, economics and social systems. Learning about the interactions that create complex adaptive systems is key to understanding our world and creating solutions to our most pressing issues.

In a complex adaptive system, the interactions among components within components are many and diverse. Complex adaptive system scientists use advanced information technologies like network science and computational modeling to help them understand how these interactions create emergent properties and enable complex adaptive systems to grow and adapt to a constantly changing environment. 
 

What skills will I learn with a complex systems science master's degree?

You’ll learn about the fundamental properties that underlie all complex adaptive systems and how interactions among system components determine how these systems grow and change. You’ll develop cutting-edge digital skills like modeling and network science that are needed to understand and manage complex adaptive systems. A master’s in complex system science will equip you with unique insights and tools for problem solving and critical thinking.

Even though complex adaptive systems are such an important part of our lives, few people yet have the knowledge and skills to understand the interactions needed to fully understand them. For this reason, complex systems science can help you develop innovative solutions in a wide range of areas, including sustainability, finance, social sciences, biomedical sciences, computer science, public policy, political science and psychology. This program’s unique subject matter gives you an edge over other job candidates and many of the skills developed in this program are foundational to a large number of employment opportunities.

In this program, you’ll gain an understanding of crime analysis, which involves using sociodemographic, spatial and temporal factors to assist law enforcement and other criminal justice organizations. Coursework will provide you with expertise in the current terminology, principles and techniques crime analysts use daily. You’ll also learn how to determine who is most likely to commit crimes, including when and where through crime mapping. Additionally, you’ll explore the history of crime analysis and its role in criminal justice agencies.

Upon completion, you’ll understand the fundamental issues, strengths and limitations of crime analysis. This skill set will prepare you to work as a crime analyst and advance to leadership positions.

The knowledge and skills you’ll develop

The curriculum explores qualitative and quantitative analysis strategies, including when and how to use different statistical techniques. You’ll also gain insight into methods of data collection, management and dissemination, as well as how to interpret tests, graphics and data. Some of the tools you’ll gain familiarity with include:

• Crime prevention through environmental design.
• Geographic information system (GIS) software for crime mapping.
• Social network analysis (SNA) software to determine links within criminal networks.
• Statistical software such as SPSS and STATA.

Who’s a good candidate for this program?

This program is a great option for criminal justice practitioners who want to specialize in crime analysis and those interested in beginning a career in the field. While it’s ideal if candidates begin the program with an academic or professional background in criminology, criminal justice, psychology or a related field, it’s not required to be considered for admission.

It’s crucial, however, that candidates are comfortable with statistics courses. As a student, please expect rigorous coursework that includes qualitative and quantitative analysis of crime using data tools. Mastering these skills will prepare you for essential crime analyst job functions including collecting, processing and analyzing data.

User experience (UX) focuses on the design, development and evaluation of products and services that are useful, usable and desirable. In this rapidly growing field, UX professionals need skills in research, analysis, design and communication to effectively lead teams and collaborate with clients and technical personnel.

This master’s in UX is project-based and beneficial for practitioners looking to develop practical skills in the industry. This degree is unique in that it’s a collaboration between three key programs: human systems engineering, graphic information technology and technical writing and communication. Many similar programs prepare you for one of the areas, but not all three. This holistic approach to user experience teachings sets you apart from counterparts lacking this education experience.

What will I learn in an online master’s in UX program?

The online master’s in UX addresses user experience research, design, content development, communication, tone of voice and evaluation of all interfaces, components and products with which end users interact. This includes hardware and software user interfaces, informational products and identifying user needs, tasks, procedures, capabilities and limitations when using technology and interacting with information.

Examples of interfaces you'll learn to optimize for user experience include:

• Aviation and ground transportation.
• Food packaging.
• Infographics.
• Medical technology.
• Mobile and web applications.
• Software.

Additionally, you’ll develop skills in writing, verbal presentation, research design, graphic design, literature review, data analysis and statistics.

Do you need a master’s degree to work in UX design?

User experience is a rapidly growing field and UX professionals need skills in research, analysis, design and communication to effectively lead teams and collaborate with clients and technical personnel.

While most employers don’t require a master’s degree to work in user experience, research shows that there are few user experience jobs that’re truly considered to be entry level. Most employers prefer a few years of experience. This online master’s in UX provides you with the hands-on experience that employers are looking for.