Health Data Science: Frequently Asked Questions
Review frequently asked questions for the health data science program at Saint Louis University School of Medicine.
Program-Specific Questions
SLU's health data science program provides strong training in data collection, data cleaning and preprocessing, statistical analysis, and scalable computational tools while focusing on the complex data challenges found in health care and biomedical research. You will develop an understanding of how data can be used to improve patient outcomes, public health and health care delivery.
You will also have opportunities to engage in applied learning experiences through the AHEAD Institute. You can work on applied analytics projects while working alongside faculty, biostatisticians, clinicians and data scientists.
Choose one of SLU's health data science certificates if you want to learn foundational and applied skills in health data science without immediately committing to a full master's program. The Introductory Health Data Science Certificate is 12 credit hours, and the Advanced Health Data Science Certificate is nine credit hours. All certificate credits apply toward the M.S. in Health Data Science, allowing you to seamlessly continue your studies without losing progress.
You can earn the advanced certificate without first completing the introductory certificate. Both options provide flexible entry points if you are interested in developing health data science expertise; you can transition into the full master's program as you advance your skills and career goals.
No. A background in biomedicine, health or clinical science is not required for admission, though familiarity with health-related topics can be helpful. The curriculum emphasizes statistics, computing and data science methods with applications in health science.
You will develop a strong foundation in data science methods, statistical analysis, programming and data management, with a focus on applying these skills to health-related data. You will learn how to collect, clean, manage, analyze and interpret complex data while communicating results to both technical and non-technical audiences.
You will use programming languages and tools common in data science and anlytics, including:
- R
- Python
- Statistical software
- Data visualization tools
The curriculum prepares you to work with real-world data and apply analytic methods used in health care research, systems and industry.
The capstone is a final, project-based course requiring you to apply the skills you've developed throughout the program. You'll gain practical experience analyzing and interpreting real-world health care data.
You will have access to a wide range of academic and professional resources, including:
- Networking opportunities
- Career services workshops
- Professional development events
- Research opportunities with faculty and research teams
Graduates work across health care organizations, research institutions, government agencies, technology companies and industry. Careers include:
- Data scientists
- Data analysts
- Maching learning engineers
- Statisticians
- Software engineers
- Quantitative analytsts
- Data managers
Yes. While many examples in the curriculum focus on health care datasets, the statistical, computational and data science skills developed in the program are applicable across many industries.
Admission Questions
Yes. You may apply before completing all eligibility requirements, such as finishing your undergraduate degree, as long as you fulfill those requirements before the program begins.
No. Neither the GMAT nor the GRE is required for admission.
No. Work experience can be beneficial but is not required for admission.
No. Industry experience in data science or analytics is not required for admission, though it can demonstrate interest in the field.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. You can start the program in the fall or spring, and applying early ensures scholarship consideration and program availability. Applying early also gives you more time to complete your enrollment, secure housing and register for courses.
Additional information about admission requirements and the application process can be found on the program application page.
No. You do not pay a fee to apply.
Submit your final official transcript from your previous academic institution to the Saint Louis University Graduate Education Office. Choose one of the following submission options:
- Email: Have your university send the transcript directly from its official email system to graduate@slu.edu.
- Mail: Have your university's registrar or official office send the transcript in a sealed
evelope to:
Graduate Admission Office
1 N. Grand Blvd.
DuBourg Hall, Suite 110
St. Louis, MO 63103 - In-Person: Bring a hard copy of your final official transcript when you arrive at SLU or within the first month of attending SLU. The transcript must be in a sealed envelope with the university's official stamp and should be delivered to the Transcript Processing Office at the address listed above.
International Student Questions
Yes. SLU's health data science program is STEM-designated, which allows eligible international students to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation. You may also apply for the 24-month STEM OPT extension.
SLU’s Office of International Services can answer your visa-related questions. If you need assistance, email internationalservices@slu.edu or call +1-314-977-2318.
No. A WES evaluation is not required.
Yes. U.S. universities assign a federal classification code to each major based on a list maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. The title on your I-20 corresponds to that federal classification code.