Name Change FAQs
We are excited to share great news about the next phase of our program’s evolution! Effective June 12, 2023 (Summer Quarter), our official degree name will be the MS in Applied Data Science.
Based on thorough internal and external research, we anticipate this change to Applied Data Science will further enhance your competitiveness in the job market. Since the inception of the MS in Analytics program at the University of Chicago, the landscape of analytics degree programs has evolved. Likewise, our program’s curriculum, mission, and vision have evolved. Today, our identity is best represented as a data science program, which aligns with our already robust data science-focused curriculum.
If you missed the April 7, 2023 Zoom session, check out our Name Change Announcement. Please review the name change FAQs listed below.
Why is the program changing its name to MS in Applied Data Science?
The MS in Applied Data Science program name better aligns with our data science curriculum, desired student outcomes (job titles, industry nomenclature), and the University of Chicago’s Data Science Institute’s leadership in the field of data science.
When does the name change take effect?
The new program name, MS in Applied Data Science, will be effective Summer Quarter 2023, which begins June 12, 2023.
Will the program's website URL or email addresses change?
Yes, the program’s website and group inbox email addresses will reflect the new program name. CNetID usernames for students, instructors, and staff will not change.
I am a current student and plan to graduate in Spring Quarter 2023. Can I delay my graduation to have the new name on my diploma and official transcript?
Students who plan to graduate in Spring Quarter 2023 may delay their graduation quarter pending eligibility. Students who wish to defer graduation for this reason must contact their academic advisor no later than April 14, 2023 to discuss this option.
I am an international student. Does the name change impact any of my documentation (e.g., Visa)?
No. As confirmed with the UChicago Office of International Affairs, at this time, current international students do not need to re-submit or correct any existing documentation.
Is the program still considered STEM OPT with the new name, MS in Applied Data Science?
Yes.
Who is eligible to graduate with the new program name?
Students who are graduating Summer Quarter 2023 and later will graduate with the new program name, MS in Applied Data Science.
Students who will graduate in Autumn Quarter 2023, Winter Quarter 2023, Spring Quarter 2024, Summer Quarter 2024, or Autumn Quarter 2024 will have the option to have the original program name (Analytics) appear on their diploma and transcript. Students who wish to graduate under the original program name should work with their academic advisor to discuss that option.
I am a current student in the program and am planning to graduate Summer Quarter 2023 or after (e.g., Autumn 2023, Summer 2024, etc.) Can I graduate with the former program name, MS in Analytics?
Yes. Current students who began the program when it was MS in Analytics may opt out of graduating with the new program name, MS in Applied Data Science. Students will record their decision to opt out via an electronic survey that was emailed to all current students and due by April 14, 2023. Students who complete the survey to opt out of the name change will graduate with the former program name, MS in Analytics.
I already graduated from the MS in Analytics program. Can I retroactively change my diploma name and/or degree name on my official transcript?
No. The diploma and transcript reflect the name of the degree program you completed. However, you may reflect the new program name, MS in Applied Data Science, on your official resume/CV, LinkedIn profile, job application materials, and any other relevant professional documentation, regardless of the name on your official diploma.