Data Science Professional Practicum

This course provides academic scaffolding for graduate students in data science who are engaged in internships, practicums, or relevant types of independent research while progressing toward a master’s degree. We focus on developing skills in project management, organizational navigation, and professional communication related to data science. In addition, the practicum explores various applications of data science methods in industrial, academic, governmental, and nonprofit settings. We discuss common challenges facing data scientists at work and possible approaches to addressing these challenges.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Assess the organizational culture of a company, governmental body, or non-governmental organization, especially as it relates to data-driven decision making and ability to adopt or employ data science methods
• Connect academic knowledge about data science to real-world professional contexts
• Evaluate the effectiveness of a variety of data science methods when deployed in organizational situations
• Integrate the student's own individual professional goals with the organization's needs relevant to the internship or practicum
• Reflect critically on the internship or practicum experience