Overview & Admissions

As organizations increasingly rely on data for decision-making, the demand for “data-capable” employees is growing dramatically.

This Certificate in Applied Data Science (CADS) is designed to equip students with the basic knowledge and skills to use data to make better decisions in any field.

The program offers focused training with a strong emphasis on practical workplace applications. All students complete a practicum in which they complete a project in a real-world setting. For students completing the certificate while working, the practicum could potentially take place within their current place of work.

Outcomes

Students will gain an understanding of basic data science tools, methods, and best practices, as well as the complex ethical and societal issues associated with data-driven approaches.

Prerequisites

Students must earn a B or higher in the following courses, or demonstrate equivalent knowledge:

• STOR 155: Introductory level knowledge of statistical data analysis methods including correlation, regression, basic probability, hypothesis testing, and confident intervals for stat.
• COMP 110 or INLS 560: Basics of computer programming (language agnostic) ) including flow control, functions, basic data structures, and debugging techniques.

Students who have mastered a prerequisite topic through other means (e.g., work experience, a different UNC course, or training outside of the university) must apply for a prerequisite waiver as part of the admissions process. This involves providing documentation explaining why they feel a waiver should be granted and include, for example, a syllabus for an alternate course or a detailed description of the work experience through which students obtained the required skills. Approvals for waivers will be made on a case-by-case basis as part of the admissions process.

Cost

View current graduate tuition rates and fees.

Application Deadlines

The application for Fall 2025 admission is now open. The application deadline is June 9, 2025.

How to Apply

Working professionals, alumni, and others not currently enrolled in a degree program at UNC should apply for the CADS program as non-degree-seeking students.

You must apply and be admitted before taking part in the CADS program. Once the CADS admission committee reviews the applications, accepted students will be notified via email. If you have questions about the certificate program or application process, please email CADS@unc.edu.

To apply to CADS, click Apply Now and create an account or log in if you are a returning user. Start a new application type and select Certificate. Then, create application and choose “Applied Data Science (Certificate)” from the program dropdown menu. Submit all materials and the application fee by the deadline.

Application requirements:

1. A CV or résumé.
2. An unofficial transcript showing completion of an undergraduate degree.
3. Documentation showing satisfactory completion of the math prerequisite. This may be in the form of a transcript or a written statement.
4. Documentation showing satisfactory completion of the programming prerequisite. This may be in the form of a transcript or a written statement.
5. A statement of interest in the program in the form of a short (500 words) essay.