About the Program

Admission and Curriculum | Highlights | Core Components | FAQ

Admission and Curriculum

Applications are accepted and reviewed for fall and spring semesters on a rolling basis.

Highlights

• Enroll full or part time: The program can be finished in one academic year for full-time students or two academic years for part-time students.
• Gain invaluable insight into how companies work and expectations for new employees through a paid position with one of our 50+ corporate partners across the nation who participate in the DeMatteis Co-op Program at Hofstra University. This opportunity is the only one of its kind in the NY metro area.
• Learn in small classes from expert faculty members that hold the highest degrees in the field and provide the supportive environment necessary for students to become innovative, efficient, and knowledgeable leaders who are effective communicators. You’ll be prepared with the technical aptitude, hands-on experience, and connections you need to pursue rewarding careers in the field.
• Choose elective courses under a department chair's advisement and guidance that align with your identified interests in specific computer science or math concentrations in the field.
• Learn in laboratories and classrooms with new technologies, machinery, and equipment, including a Big Data Lab, Gaming and Graphics Lab, and Systems, Networking, and Security Lab.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a deadline for admission?

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and are reviewed and decided on as they are received. Students may apply to begin the program in either fall or spring, or request to enroll during one of the summer sessions. While course offerings are flexible each year, it is recommended that prospective students apply with adequate time to register. The admissions committee prefers that students apply at least two weeks prior to the beginning of classes.

How long does it take to complete the programs?

The program consists of 30 semester hours and can be finished in one academic year for full-time students or two academic years for part-time students. To be considered full-time, students register for nine semester hours in the fall and spring semesters, though many students complete the program part-time. Courses are generally offered during the fall, spring, and summer sessions, as well as periodically during the January session. Advisors work with students to structure their plan of study.

When are classes offered?

Courses are offered Monday through Friday throughout the calendar year, including fall, spring, and summer sessions, and in some cases, during January intersession.

Can I take a course before I apply?

Nonmatriculated students may take up to 12 credits that may be used as prerequisites for advanced study, applied toward a degree in the future, or for personal or professional development. Applicants for nonmatriculated study are required to present evidence of a baccalaureate or graduate degree from a fully, regionally accredited institution when they apply for admission. Whether you are interested in registering for graduate or undergraduate coursework, all bachelor's degree holders use the Hofstra University Graduate Application to apply. Following submission, a member of our Graduate Admission team will work with you through the process to gain departmental permission to register. View additional information about nonmatriculated study.

How are students connected with internship sites?

The DeMatteis Co-op Program offers students an integrated educational and professional working experience. Co-op students are hired for a paid position in a company related to their degree program prior to graduation. Working as a co-op gives students valuable insight into how companies work and what is expected of new employees. It is a tremendous advantage for graduating students seeking full-time employment. Launched in 2015, we now have approximately 200 corporate partners and have successfully placed more than 100 engineering and computer science students in technology firms nationwide.

What if I don’t have a bachelor's degree in mathematics, computer science, or a related discipline?

Please review the program prerequisite requirements here. Successful completion of these prerequisites will increase the chances of a direct acceptance.

Are scholarships available? How do I apply?

All graduate applications are reviewed for merit-based scholarships by the program director and are distributed on a competitive basis to eligible applicants. No additional materials are needed outside of the application in order to be considered.

Applicants are encouraged to speak with representatives in the Office of Student Financial Services (516-463-8000) to inquire about need-based aid and other resources to finance their degree. Matriculated students may also apply for a variety of campus jobs, which are continually updated on Hofstra's website.

What is the average class size?

In-person classes usually do not exceed 22 students. There are some cases when class sizes may be slightly larger with a maximum of 30 students.

What factors do you consider/what qualities do you look for in applications?

Admission requirements include completion of a bachelor's degree in mathematics, computer science, or a related discipline from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA. All applications for admission are considered based on their own merits, with weight given to the strength of a student's previous academic performance, scores obtained on the GRE, professional experiences indicating increasing levels of responsibility, and any other pertinent information which the candidate for admission may provide to the committee on admissions. Applicants are encouraged to describe their commitment to the field of data science within their statement of purpose, if submitting, and to expand on their goals and objectives for the future.