Educational Data Science, MS
Explore how institutions, policies and practices impact social, economic and educational outcomes, with a focus on underserved populations.
Analyze Learning
Our educational data science program equips you with the skills to excel in one of the fastest-growing fields in the U.S. You'll learn to leverage big data, from large-scale assessments to advanced learning analytics, to drive equitable decision-making in education. By mastering critical quantitative methods, you’ll address biases in data, preparing to become a researcher or analyst rooted in equity and committed to advancing educational outcomes through innovative, data-driven solutions.
Data Makes a Difference
A study co-led by the University at Buffalo and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia reveals a link between temperament and eating behaviors in young children, offering insights into childhood obesity risk. Co-authored by GSE professor Myles S. Faith, the research found that children who eat slower are less impulsive, while those who are highly responsive to food cues—like seeing or smelling food—struggle more with self-soothing.
“This study established relationships between temperament and eating patterns in children,” says Faith.
Points of Distinction
This program is available both in person and online, offering the flexibility to learn in the way that best suits your needs. Whether you prefer the dynamic interaction of an on-campus experience or the convenience of studying from anywhere, you'll gain the same skills and knowledge to address educational issues.
Experience rigorous training in quantitative research methods, including advanced statistics, measurement techniques, secondary analysis of large-scale data sets and research design. You'll develop the expertise to conduct high-quality, data-driven research that can influence educational policy and practice.
Tackle real-world challenges in a variety of educational settings. You'll gain the skills to address improving classroom practices, promoting equitable learning opportunities and enhancing educational policies. You'll be ready to impact across diverse and evolving educational environments.
Program Overview
| Academic credential granted | Master of Science (MS) |
|---|---|
| Credits required for completion | 35 |
| Time to completion | 3 to 4 full-time semesters |
| Course delivery | On campus or online |
| Experiential contact hours | N/A |
| Application deadline | Priority Deadlines Fall: April 1, then rolling until Aug. 10 Spring: Nov. 1, then rolling until Jan. 10 |
Core Courses (20 credits)
- CEP 500 Fundamentals of Educational Research
- CEP 510 Psychometric Theory in Education
- CEP 522 Statistical Methods I (4 credits)
- CEP 523 Statistical Methods II (4 credits)
- CEP 541 Human Growth and Development
- CEP 560 Psychology of Learning and Instruction
Distribution Requirements (12 credits)
Data Analytics (choose one)
These courses are currently under development. Completing CEP 512 or CEP 533 will fulfill this requirement until official replacements become available in fall 2025.
- CEP ### Foundations of Educational Data Science and Analytics (Currently, CEP 512)
- CEP ### Advanced Programming for Educational Data Analytics (Currently, CEP 533)
Measurement and Statistics (choose two)
- CEP 524 Experimental Design
- CEP 525 Applied Multivariate Analysis
- CEP 526 Structural Equation Modeling
- CEP 527 Analysis of Large-Scale Databases
- CEP 528 Hierarchical Linear Modeling
- CEP 529 Applied Regression Analysis
- CEP 530 Introduction to Meta-Analysis
- CEP 531 Applied Survival Analysis in Education and Social Sciences
Substantive Issues of Educational Policy and Practice (choose one)
- CEP 533 Topical Seminar
- ELP 566 Comparative and Global Studies in Education
- ELP 575 Education and Globalization
- ELP 585 Sociological Bases of Education
- ELP 592 American Education for International Students
- ELP 615 Critical Race Theory
- ELP 620 Educational Transitions P–20
- ELP 626 Policy Formulation and Analysis
- LAI 512 Readings in Multicultural Literature
- LAI 525 Science, Technology and Human Values
- LAI 529 Computers in Early and Primary Education
Capstone Project (3 credits)
- CEP 700 or CEP 701 Individual Guidance Project or Thesis
Example Schedule
Fall 1
- CEP 500 Fundamentals of Educational Research
- CEP 522 Statistical Methods I
- CEP 541 Human Growth and Development
- Choose one data analytics course
Spring 1
- CEP 510 Psychometric Theory in Education
- CEP 523 Statistical Methods II
- CEP 560 Psychology of Learning and Instruction
- Choose one substantive issues course
Fall 2
- Choose two measurement and statistics courses (CEP 524–531)
- CEP 700 or 701 Project or Thesis
Standardized Testing No Longer Required
In an effort to make the application process more equitable, the GRE/MAT is no longer required for admissions consideration. If you still plan to take the GRE/MAT exam, you can send your scores through the testing agency, and they will automatically be added to your application; however, they are not required for admission consideration to this program.
Submit your completed online application, which includes:
- Application fee: A $50 non-refundable application fee, submitted electronically through UB's ePayment system.
- Unofficial transcripts from all colleges attended. (UB transcripts are automatically submitted for current UB students and alumni.)
- Contact information for at least three individuals who will each be asked to provide an electronic recommendation letter.
- Statement of interest: Statement of your career goals and objectives.
Former/Maiden Name: Please provide us with your former/maiden name if you have one. When requesting transcripts, please ask the sending institution to indicate your current name and former/maiden name.
Admission Decision: The admission decision will be communicated to you as soon as review is complete. The decision is based on a number of factors and is the result of a thorough and deliberate process. All decisions are final and cannot be appealed.
In-State Residency Tuition
In order to qualify for the in-state residency tuition rate, you must provide residency documentation indicating you have lived in New York State (NYS) 12 months before your semester start date.
If accepted, you will need to upload three documents to qualify for the in-state tuition rate. See Required Documents for Residency Application for more information.
International Applicant Additional Requirements
- Official original proof of your degree
- A copy of your passport biographical page
- Official test scores—dated within two years of submitting your application—for either the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) Academic Test, the PTE (Pearson Test of English) Academic, or DET (Duolingo English Test).
- TOEFL minimum score is 250 for computer-based test, 600 for paper-based test and 79 for internet-based test
- IELTS Academic Test minimum score is 6.5 overall
- PTE minimum score is 55 overall
- DET minimum score is 120 overall
- Financial documentation: International graduate applicants must document their ability to pay for all costs incurred while studying in the U.S.
- An official bank statement
All financial forms and supporting documentation with required signatures must be uploaded with your application and dated within one year of your intended enrollment date.
Graduates of this program go on to work in:
- schools, universities and colleges
- local, district and state education departments
- public and private research agencies that undertake educational assessments