Student Policies

A student shall be deemed to be in Good Academic Standing only if they are making appropriate progress towards the degree as defined and communicated by the program.

To be in Good Academic Standing within the MS in Applied Data Science program, students are expected to:

• Maintain a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher
• Complete all required MS in Applied Data Science courses with a B- or higher
• Adhere to high standards of conduct, attendance, and course expectations in the classroom as outlined in the syllabi and/or from your Faculty/Instructor
• Adhere to the University’s policies regarding academic honesty and plagiarism
• Comply with all program requirements and guidelines (e.g., foundational assessments, participation in the required Career Seminar series, etc.)
• Be collegial, responsive to peers, and fairly contribute when engaged in group projects and/or team capstones
• Adhere to deadlines and respond to email correspondences sent by University officials

Students are expected to maintain Good Academic Standing and make academic progress toward the degree throughout their graduate career. If a student is deemed not to be in Good Academic Standing, the student may be placed on Academic Probation upon the recommendation of the faculty in their program and approval of the Program Director. Students who decide to take a Leave of Absence while on Academic Probation will remain on Probation status upon resumption of studies. If placed on Academic Probation status, it will only remain until all action items outlined in the letter are completed and the prescribed timeframe of the Academic Probation status has ended.

The MS in Applied Data Science program will regularly assess each student and communicate in writing (1) if a student is not in Good Academic Standing, (2) what must be accomplished to return to Good Academic Standing, (3) in what timeframe it must be achieved, and (4) what the consequences are if the requirements to achieve good academic standing are not completed within the timeframe (e.g., academic probation, dismissal).

In accordance with the Physical Sciences Division’s residency policy, students in the MS in Applied Data Science program are expected to maintain an ongoing and meaningful physical presence in Chicago throughout their studies. All students should plan to arrive in Chicago and be ready to participate in in-person classes and activities by the start of each quarter. This policy does not apply to students in the online MS-ADS program.

We recognize that maintaining residency in Chicago is essential to making the most of your academic journey, building connections, and engaging fully with both the program and resources at UChicago. If you encounter challenges in meeting this residency requirement, we encourage you to promptly reach out to your academic advisor or your OIA advisor. The program is committed to supporting students and will work with you to explore alternative options – such as a leave of absence, if necessary.

Adherence to this policy is expected of all MS-ADS students as it is a key component of maintaining good academic standing and remaining in our program. Our goal is to support your success and well-being throughout your time in the program.

For students* enrolled in the MS in Applied Data Science (MS-ADS) program beginning Autumn 2022 or later, the maximum allowable period for degree completion is 16 academic quarters (4 years) from initial enrollment. For students who enrolled prior to Autumn 2022, the maximum period for completion is 20 academic quarters (5 years).

Active Enrollment Requirement
Students are expected to maintain continual enrollment in coursework throughout their program. Inactive status is defined as a lack of enrollment and/or absence of communication with the program, except when an official, approved leave of absence has been granted. Students are encouraged to proactively request a leave of absence if they anticipate not enrolling for more than one academic quarter. Please note that all periods of inactivity, including approved leaves of absence, count toward the maximum time allowed for degree completion.

Registration Holds
With the exception of the self-activated Summer quarter, students who do not enroll in courses by the end of Week 3 of the Autumn, Winter, or Spring quarters will have a registration hold placed on their account, preventing future course registration. To have the hold removed and resume coursework, students must consult with their Academic Advisor.

Administrative Leave and Dismissal
If a student is inactive (not enrolled and not in communication with the program) for one quarter (four consecutive academic quarters), the student will be placed on administrative leave. Notification of this status will be provided by the Academic Advisor. While on administrative leave, students interested in returning to active study must meet with their Academic Advisor to discuss options for resuming coursework.

If inactivity continues and totals two years (eight consecutive academic quarters), the student is subject to administrative withdrawal from the MS-ADS program. Any student administratively withdrawn interested in readmission into the program must submit MS-ADS General Petition to the MS-ADS Director of Student Affairs. Please note that the program does not guarantee readmission.

Voluntary Leave of Absence
The program supports students who need to take an official leave of absence for personal or professional reasons. Students will not be penalized for requesting and utilizing a formal leave. It is essential that students communicate their intentions and submit a formal request for a leave of absence to ensure program support and guidance.

Considerations for Exceptional Circumstances
The MS-ADS program recognizes that extenuating personal or professional circumstances may occasionally arise. Requests for exceptions to this policy will be considered by the program administration and the Physical Sciences Division Dean of Students on a case-by-case basis. However, exceptions are rare and not assured.

For more information or clarification on this policy, feel free to reach out to the Director of Student Affairs, DuJuan Smith, at dusmith@uchicago.edu.

* Students are defined as any/all individuals enrolled in the full-time or part-time MS in Applied Data Science program – In-Person or Online. MS in Applied Data Science students are allowed to take up to 300 Units per quarter. Students found to be registered for more than 300 units without MS in Applied Data Science administrative approval will result in additional courses administratively removed from their schedule.

This policy outlines the process for students in the Master of Science in Applied Data Science (MSADS) program to reserve academic classrooms for course or University-related activities only on the 28th Floor of NBC Tower. Examples include presentation practice, group meetings, and collaborative study sessions.

Note: To reserve space, students must complete the MS-ADS Classroom Reservation Request Form. All room requests related to Union matters (for the purposes of administering the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the University and GSU-UE) should instead be sent to the UChicagoGRAD Room Reservation Form. 

Applicability

Eligible Individuals
This policy applies to students currently enrolled in the Master of Science in Applied Data Science (MSADS) program who are requesting a classroom space.

Spaces
This policy applies to resources* classified as “Classroom” in the Booked reservation system, AKA applieddatasciencerooms.
(*Note on terminology: Within Booked, rooms are identified as “resources.” This policy refers to “resources” assigned the “resource type” of “classroom” within Booked.

Reservation Procedure

Request Submission
A request for a classroom reservation must be submitted in one of the following ways:
Online: Completion and submission of the MS-ADS Classroom Reservation Request Form.
In-Person: A Request made to an operations staff member in Suite 2800.
Phone: Request made to operations staff by calling 773–702–6315.

Approval
MS-ADS Operations must first approve all student classroom reservations before they are confirmed. If the reservation is not approved, the operations staff will contact the requester to discuss alternative options.

Confirmation of Reservation
A reservation is considered confirmed when the person submitting the request receives a confirmation email from applieddatascience-ops@uchicago.edu. This email will contain the details of the reservation, including date, time, and location.

Additional Information

Availability
To ensure scheduled courses are not impacted, all student classroom reservations must be scheduled to end at least one (1) hour before the start time of the next scheduled class in the same room. Students can check the availability of classrooms before submitting a request at applieddatasciencerooms.uchicago.edu.

Use of Audio-Visual (AV) Technology
Students are permitted to use the AV equipment in the reserved classroom. However, operations staff will prioritize providing tech assistance to scheduled courses and other events over student classroom reservations.

Room Requests for Union Matters

All room requests related to Union matters (for the purposes of administering the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the University and GSU-UE) should instead be sent to the UChicagoGRAD Room Reservation Form.

All members of the University of Chicago community are required to follow the University’s Acceptable Use Policy (AUP). Students are expected to adhere to the Petitions, Audio & Video Recording on Campus Policy outlined in the Student Manual. Unauthorized sharing, reproduction, or distribution of copyrighted materials, including course content, assignments, or lecture recordings, is strictly prohibited.

A detailed description of the University’s policies concerning disciplinary actions for the misuse or unauthorized distribution of copyrighted material is set forth in the University’s Student Manual and File Sharing Policy. Students who violate these policies may be subject to academic disciplinary action.

If you have questions about the appropriate use of course materials or need clarification on copyright guidelines, please consult your Instructors, External Partners for program sponsored projects, or the MS-ADS Director of Student Affairs at dusmith@uchicago.edu. We encourage all students to act with integrity and responsibility in the use of academic resources, for the benefit and protection of the entire learning community.

The MS in Applied Data Science program is committed to creating and maintaining a community dedicated to the advancement, application, and transmission of knowledge and creative endeavors through academic excellence. We are curating spaces where all individuals who participate in programs and activities can work and learn together in an atmosphere free of harassment, exploitation, or intimidation. To foster a positive, professional environment, we encourage the following:

• Event Attendance: Events rely on the confirmed attendance of student participants. Therefore, students are expected to attend all events for which they have RSVP’d or otherwise committed to attend. If a student cannot attend an event due to an unforeseen emergency, the student should notify the event organizer as soon as possible. Students who repeatedly RSVP for events and do not communicate their change in plans or do not show up may lose priority access to future events. 
• Respect for Peers: Our program thrives on mutual support and collaboration. Let’s celebrate the tapestry of backgrounds and experiences that we bring. Treat everyone with kindness, respect, and inclusivity, regardless of their program affiliation or background. Furthermore, respect others’ personal belongings.
• Inclusive Language: Let your language reflect the inclusivity and respect we cherish. Please avoid the use of offensive or discriminatory comments, jokes, or language that could make anyone uncomfortable or feel less valued. Please understand that discrimination, harassment, bullying, or any form of intimidation based on a person’s protected characteristics is strictly prohibited. This includes in-person interactions, communications, and online interactions.
• Conflict Resolution: In case of disagreements or conflicts, approach them respectfully and seek amicable resolutions. If things escalate beyond the point of individual parties being able to resolve issues themselves, we encourage you to contact Dr. DuJuan Smith, Director of Student Affairs, at dusmith@uchicago.edu or submit a Student Assistance and Support form.

Media Consent Notice of Recording

With your submission to attend the [Name of Event], you consent to be photographed, filmed, and/or otherwise recorded. Your entry constitutes your consent to photography, filming, recording in any universe and use of your appearance, voice, and name for any purpose connected with the productions, social media posts, or any media created from the event, in perpetuity.

NBC Tower Student Lounge Community Guidelines
The University of Chicago – Cityfront Campus

Respect for Space

• Our Shared Space: This lounge belongs to us all. Cleaning supplies will be provided in the Student Lounge. Keep the lounge clean and tidy. Dispose of trash properly and help maintain a welcoming environment for all.
• Responsible Use: Use the facilities and resources responsibly, ensuring they are available for all members. Engage with them thoughtfully and avoid any actions that could adversely affect others or the space. Avoid any activities that may cause harm, damage, or disturbance to the physical lounge space.
• Noise Consideration: As scholars, we value both lively debates and silent contemplation. Monitor your noise levels, tailoring your activities to the needs of the space and your peers. Keep conversations at a reasonable volume and use designated areas (e.g., reserved study rooms) for group discussions or socializing.
• Personal Belongings: Take responsibility for your personal belongings. Do not leave items unattended, and avoid using excessive space.
• Lost & Found: If you lose or find any items that are left behind in the Student Lounge, please turn them in or seek to find them in the Operations Office, located in NBC Tower Suite 2800.

Respect for Others

• Respect for Peers: This lounge space thrives on mutual support and collaboration. Let’s celebrate the tapestry of backgrounds and experiences that we bring. Treat everyone with kindness, respect, and inclusivity, regardless of their program affiliation or background. Furthermore, respect others’ personal belongings and seek permission before borrowing or moving items.
• Inclusive Language: Let your language reflect the inclusivity and respect we cherish. Please avoid the use of offensive or discriminatory comments, jokes, or language that could make anyone uncomfortable or feel less valued.
• Conflict Resolution: In case of disagreements or conflicts, approach them respectfully and seek amicable resolutions. If things escalate beyond the point of individual parties being able to resolve issues themselves, we encourage you to contact the appropriate program administrators.

Upholding our Standards

Students must adhere to all University of Chicago (e.g., Student Manual), division, and program policies, rules, and regulations while using the lounge. We reserve the right to close and restrict access to the Student Lounge and ask any occupants to leave due to inappropriate behavior and/or violations of conduct outlined in existing policies.

Please report any serious maintenance issues, concerns, or potential violations of any policies or community guidelines to the appropriate program administrators listed below:

• MS in Applied Data Science: DuJuan Smith, Director of Student Affairs, at dusmith@uchicago.edu
• Complete the Student Assistance and Support form

We are clarifying the expectations for MS in Applied Data Science students who intend to take a Booth course, as a previously approved substitution for a program requirement, in their final quarter of enrollment. The general University deadline for grade submission for those students in their final quarter of enrollment is earlier than when Booth instructors are allowed to post their course grades. Students may only be granted a degree when all final grades are submitted in relation to program requirements.

As a result, any students taking a Booth course that substitutes for a required program course will not be allowed to graduate in that final quarter of enrollment. Furthermore, PSD graduate students may not register for a Booth course in their expected graduation quarter if they need to receive a grade in the Booth course to complete their degree requirements. Without a final grade from the Booth course, the student will not have completed the program requirements. Students choosing to take a Booth course in their final quarter of enrollment will be graduated the following quarter, provided all other program requirements are met.

For more information on taking classes at Booth, please visit https://www.chicagobooth.edu/offerings/taking-booth-classes

You must earn a grade of B- or better in each of the courses that apply toward your degree requirement. All grades received are final. Grades can only be changed by the Registrar due to an administrative error. It is the students’ responsibility to check their records at the end of each quarter and report all grading errors to your MS in Applied Data Science Advisor immediately.

In the MS in Applied Data Science program, we consider grading to be the exclusive purview of the instructor. If concerns remain after a reaching out to the course instructor, students may follow the PSD Student Concerns and Grievance policy.

If a grade below B- is earned for a course, that class will not count towards graduation. If the course is a degree requirement for graduation, the student will need to register and pay for the course to take in again. Tuition and fees will be assessed as scheduled.

MS-ADS students are allowed to take up to 300 Units per quarter. Our program does not allow for course overload requests (i.e., taking more than 300 units per quarter). Students found to be registered for more than 300 units will be contacted and/or administratively removed from additional courses from their schedule.

A course may have one or more prerequisites for registration. Before registering for any course, a student must first have completed all necessary prerequisites (PQs) or be enrolled in the course prior to registration.  These PQs are essential foundations for student learning and success in the MS in Applied Data Science program.  Students are responsible for being aware of this policy prior to registration each quarter and may not bypass any prerequisites required for a selected course.

MS in Applied Data Science courses are NOT available for auditing purposes. Students must be registered for courses and are subject to tuition and fees.