FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT US AT SCIENCEACADEMY@UMD.EDU

Q: Do the Science Academy programs have a STEM designation?
A: The Master of Science (MS) programs will begin Fall 2024 and graduates from MS programs will be eligible to apply for the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension as defined by the Department of Homeland Security. The Science Academy has run a Master of Professional Studies (MPS) degree program since Fall 2019. Students who graduate from the MPS programs do not have the STEM designation. However, International students on F-1 visas who complete the Science Academy degree programs in person are eligible to apply for the standard 12 months of OPT, just no extension.

Q: Are the courses online?
A: Instructional delivery is primarily face to face. Some summer courses are delivered online to give students more flexibility for internships out of the area and travel.

Q: Are assistantships available? 
A: Students can submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to apply for federal financial aid. Because most of our students are working full time, we do not offer assistantships or fellowships, though students are eligible to apply to positions in other departments on campus.

Q: Do I have to have a mathematics background to be admitted?
A: Having the appropriate background in mathematics, or the ability to learn it quickly, is necessary for successfully completing several of the courses in the curriculum. Completion of formal course work, ongoing or planned course work, or evidence of mathematical competency are used in evaluating applicants.

Q: I am interested in taking a few courses but am not sure I want a full degree. Is that an option?
A: The Graduate Certificate in Data Science or Quantum Computing may be a good fit. The four required courses for the Graduate Certificate are part of the masters programs. If you complete the certificate and apply to and are admitted into the master’s, those courses will transfer.

Q: I have less than a 3.0 Grade Point Average (GPA) for my prior college-level studies. Can I still apply? 
A: Yes, you can still apply. In your application, include more information including: 

• Any explanation for your low GPA that you want to convey.
• A calculation of your GPA in courses relevant to the program (e.g., mathematics, statistics, computer science, programming).
• A description of your current work experience including sufficient detail about skills/knowledge/experience.

Q: What research can I expect in the MS in Data Science and Analytics program? 
A: The programs in the Science Academy are primarily course-based, applied learning. Some programs have projects that allow students to explore research areas of interest but these are not research degrees.  

Q: What is the application fee?
A: The Graduate School lists the step-by-step process for applying to a graduate program at the University of Maryland. Step 5 of the six steps includes paying the non-refundable $75 application processing fee for each program to which you apply.

Q: Does the Science Academy offer application fee waivers?
A: The Graduate School does offer waivers to students affiliated with certain preparatory and professional organizations. Besides these opportunities, the Science Academy does not offer any application fee waivers. 

Q: What is the required TOEFL score?
A: Learn more about the Graduate School’s English Language Proficiency Requirements here. Students can submit TOEFL, Pearson (PTE), or IELTS scores. We do not accept the Duolingo exam. Students must score within the requirements for full enrollment or the English Bridge Program.

Q: I have applied for a graduate assistantship in another department at UMD. How does tuition remission work?
A: Tuition remission for graduate assistants covers the standard in-state tuition rate. The Science Academy tuition is a special tuition rate. Students are responsible for paying the difference between the graduate assistantship tuition remission and the Science Academy tuition each semester. More information on the tuition assistance program and process.

Q: I work on campus and am eligible for tuition remission. Will this cover all my expenses for the Science Academy program?
A: Similar to tuition remission for graduate assistants, tuition remission covers the standard in-state tuition rate. The Science Academy tuition is a special tuition rate. Students are responsible for paying the difference between their tuition remission and the Science Academy tuition each semester. More information on the tuition assistance program and process.

Q: I earned a 3-year undergraduate degree in another country. Am I still eligible for admission?
A: Depending on where you earned your undergraduate degree, and any other academic work you have completed, you may still be eligible for admission. Learn more about the Graduate School's policy.

Q: Are the GREs required for admission?
A: GRE scores are not required for admission to the Science Academy programs. Students may submit official scores but it is optional.