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Business Data Science Graduate Certificate

Aug. 20, 2025

Next Start Date

4

Courses Required

$1,004

Cost Per Credit Hour

Reflects current academic year's tuition.
Military Discount Available

12

Total Credit Hours

Online Courses

Learning Format

Unlock the World of Big Data

The Business Data Science Graduate Certificate, offered by the John Chambers College of Business and Economics, focuses on advanced analytical methods and visualizations to help you make the most of your data and communicate your findings. Data science uses scientific methods to extract information from data, unifying statistics with machine learning and information technology to unlock insights otherwise impossible to discover. Analysts fluent in advanced statistical analysis, data mining, and data collection techniques can find the right data to support missions with the right insights, information, and knowledge. If you’re equally interested in applications and the infrastructure and theory underpinning the world of data, this might just be for you.

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Overview

The Business Data Science Graduate Certificate requires 12 hours of course work taken over the span of one and one-half semesters.

The coursework unifies statistics, machine learning and information technology to make discoveries otherwise out of sight. The methods emphasized in this certificate are capable of discovering hard-to-find trends in large, population-sized data sets.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this certificate, students will be able to:

  • Organize and securely retrieve data from data warehousing infrastructure.
  • Perform advanced predictive analytic techniques using statistical software and communicate their results.
  • Deploy machine learning for mining big data.

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Admission Requirements

Successful Completion of an bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution. Complete the following steps to apply:

  • Complete the WVU Online Graduate Application
  • Upload an up-to-date resume. Your resume should include enough information for the admissions committee to trace your entire professional work history and should indicate any relevant affiliations.
  • Create a Statement of Purpose (not to exceed one page). Your statement of purpose should be a short, one-page essay which describes your interest in the program, why you wish to pursue the program at WVU, how the program will help you reach your career goals, and any additional information which may be necessary to understanding your candidacy.
  • Request 1 letter of recommendation through the online portal. Individual letters should not exceed one page. We recommend that your reference provides some information that is not found in the other materials being submitted. Topics regarding your ability to work with others, your discipline and ambition, leadership potential, etc. should be addressed. Your reference letter should cover aptitudes necessary for your success in the program to which you are applying.
  • Applicants will need to submit college transcripts; an unofficial copy may be uploaded with your application. Upon acceptance, an official transcript must be submitted to finalize acceptance. If your school offers “e-script” (an official electronic copy of transcripts), email your official transcripts electronically to: GraduateAdmissions@mail.wvu.edu. Or by mail to: WVU Hub, P.O. Box 6004, Morgantown, WV 26506.
  • International applicants should submit electronic transcripts to: InternationalAdmissions@mail.wvu.edu. For those using express mail, use the address WVU Hub, 62 Morrill Way - Suite 220, Morgantown, WV 26506.
  • International Students are required to submit a TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo score.

Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid

Students enrolled in certificate programs are not eligible for financial aid. Visit Student Financial Support & Services for additional information.

The tuition rate per credit hour listed above is for the 2024-2025 academic year. Tuition and fees increase beginning in the fall term of each academic year.

Tuition and fees are usually not the only educational expenses you may have while pursuing a degree. You may have other costs such as books, supplies and living expenses. Please see the Estimate Costs and Aid webpage for how to estimate and plan for other potential expenses.

The future for graduates with a certificate in Business Data Science

The demand for data scientists is projected to increase due to a growing need for data-driven decision-making. Over the next decade, the amount of available data and its potential applications are expected to rise. Consequently, organizations will likely require more data scientists to extract insights and analyze the vast amounts of information gathered. Through their analyses, data scientists will aid organizations in making informed decisions, enhancing business processes, creating innovative products, and improving marketing strategies.

Career outlook for graduates with a certificate in Business Data Science

The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that the employment of data scientists is projected to grow 36% from 2021-2031, much faster than the average for all occupations, making this a good opportunity to consider.

What are the benefits to earning a certificate in Business Data Science?

Business data science is used in various fields, including marketing, finance, human resources, operations, and supply chain management. For example, a company may use data science to optimize their marketing campaigns, identify cost-saving opportunities, and improve customer satisfaction. In essence, business data science helps organizations turn their data into actionable insights, allowing them to make more informed decisions and stay competitive in their respective industries.

Certificate Code - CG45

The Certificate in Business Data Science requires 12 credit hours, the coursework unifies statistics, machine learning and information technology to make discoveries otherwise out of sight. The methods emphasized in this certificate are capable of discovering hard-to-find trends in large, population-sized data sets.

Course Title Credit Hours
BUDA 515 Big Data Technologies for Business 3
BUDA 525 Business Statistical Methods 1 3
BUDA 530 Business Statistical Methods 2 3
BUDA 535 Business Data Mining 3

Total hours: 12

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some careers this degree will get a person ready for?

Students who graduate from WVU Online with the Business Data Science Graduate Certificate may be prepared for the following careers. These are only a few examples of some of the many opportunities that will be open to you with this degree. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for some positions.

  • Business Intelligence Analyst Projected Growth: 15% or higher *Bright Outlook
  • Data Scientist Projected Growth: 15% or higher *Bright Outlook
  • Database Architect Projected Growth: 5-10%
  • Management Analyst Projected Growth: 10-15% *Bright Outlook

Information about careers on this list comes from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Which industry employs the most data scientists?

Most data scientists are currently employed by industries such as financial services, information technology, healthcare, retail, and media and entertainment. This is expected, as these industries increasingly rely on digital technology and require agile adaptation to remain relevant in changing times.

Can I become a data scientist without a degree?

Most senior roles will require advanced degrees.

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