Data Science and Analytics is one of today’s fastest-growing fields, connecting technology, statistics, and problem-solving to turn data into meaningful insights. At Buffalo State, you’ll build technical skills and gain hands-on experience with big data, machine learning, predictive modeling, data visualization, and business intelligence. 

You’ll also develop the communication and critical-thinking skills to put data to work in fields such as business, health care, government, and education. Graduate ready to solve complex problems, make informed decisions, and pursue careers as data scientists, analysts, and innovators.

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Data Science and Analytics, M.S.: The M.S. in Data Science and Analytics prepares you to turn data into insights that drive better decisions across industries. Build hands-on skills in data analytics, coding, machine learning, geospatial programming, visualization, and analysis. You’ll also develop expertise in communication, project management, data governance, and problem-solving. Workshops with industry experts and an applied internship give you opportunities to put your skills to work and build valuable professional connections.

Data Science and Analytics, Advanced Certificate: Designed for bachelor’s-prepared professionals seeking modern, industry-relevant skills in data manipulation, organization, and analysis. This 12-credit graduate certificate equips students with essential data analytics competencies to thrive in today’s data-driven workplaces. 

Data Science and Analytics (DSA) 4+1: The 4+1 pathway allows students to complete requirements for their bachelor’s degree while taking select graduate-level coursework during their undergraduate studies. The DSA track is a Professional Science Master’s (PSM)- affiliated program, meaning it integrates data science coursework with communication strategies, project management, and an internship.

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What You Will Learn

  • Data Mastery
  • Statistical & Computational Skills
  • Programming & Tools
  • Data Visualization & Storytelling
  • Ethics & Privacy
  • Critical Thinking
  • Collaboration & Leadership
Learning Outcomes
Joaquin O. Carbonara, headshot
“Data science and analytics breaks silos among disciplines. You have people from business, research, and medicine, all of them talking in the common language of science. It improves teamwork, supports crowdsourcing, and generates progress.”
Joaquin Carbonara Lead Faculty DSA M.S. & Professor of Mathematics

Where Your Degree Can Take You

  • Data Scientist
  • Data Analyst
  • Business Analyst
  • Data Engineer
  • Machine Learning Engineer
  • Data Architect
  • Statistician
  • GIS Analyst
  • Research Analyst
  • Data & Analytics Manager
More Data Scientists Roles
Smiling student in the lounge with a laptop
I'Jaz Ja'ciel headshot
"I believe the greatest takeaway for any student enrolling in this program who does not have a strong math or science background is to understand that because Data Science and Analytics is interdisciplinary in nature, this is a field that will benefit from all types of backgrounds, including yours, whatever it may be!"
I'Jaz Ja'ciel Investigative Reporter

Industries Using Data Science

Data science plays a critical role across many fields, offering professionals the chance to apply their skills in many diverse ways:

  • Technology: AI development, product data science, and advanced machine learning.
  • Finance & Banking: Fraud detection, quantitative analysis, and risk modeling.
  • Healthcare & Biotech: Predictive healthcare modeling, bioinformatics, and medical data analysis.
  • Retail & E-Commerce: Customer behavior analysis, recommendation systems, and pricing strategy.
  • Government & Public Policy: Economic modeling, statistical research, and public data strategy.
  • Manufacturing & Logistics: Supply chain optimization, operations research, and predictive maintenance.

More industries and areas that need data scientists

Career Paths in Data Science

Graduates and professionals can progress through a variety of roles such as:

  • Data Analyst: Interprets data trends and supports business decisions.
  • Junior Data Scientist: Builds foundational models and conducts statistical analysis.
  • Machine Learning Engineer: Designs and deploys AI-driven systems.
  • Data Engineer: Develops data pipelines and infrastructure for analysis.
  • Business Intelligence Analyst: Creates dashboards and reports for decision-makers.
  • Leadership Roles: With experience, professionals can advance to Senior Data Scientist, Data Science Manager, or Chief Data Officer.

The DSA program provides additional educational and professional development experiences to enhance the background learned through coursework. This includes:

  • Each semester, the DSA program invites industry experts from many different data science fields to speak at Buffalo State. These presentations are an excellent opportunity for students to explore career paths, make connections that could lead to future internships and jobs, and learn about different areas of data science.
  • The DSA program hosts events like AI & Agency: Reshaping Learning and Work, which bring together students, educators, and industry professionals for a full day of discussions and collaboration around artificial intelligence. Featuring panel debates, faculty presentations, keynote speakers, and networking sessions, these events provide a space to explore how AI is shaping education and the workforce while offering valuable opportunities to learn from experts, share ideas, and build meaningful professional connections.