Online Master of Science in Program Evaluation and Data Analytics

A Master of Science in program evaluation and data analytics brings together these two disciplines with a focus on the public and nonprofit sectors. Leveraging information to improve organizational performance is at the foundation of this program. By earning this degree, you can support the realization of positive social impact through data and evidence.

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Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 05/16/2024


Total classes:

Total classes: 11

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 33

Degree questions, answered.

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What is program evaluation?

Program evaluation centers on the use of tools to assess program or policy impact and performance. It is often implemented in organizations as a cyclical process, where specialized staff regularly measure efficiency and effectiveness while looking for actionable opportunities for improvement. This workflow is used in the public, private and nonprofit sectors. Outcome evaluation, which looks at the results of programs and policies, is a closely related activity.

Arizona State University’s Master of Science in program evaluation and data analytics degree teaches skills from both of these disciplines. Coursework in the program evaluation part of the degree focuses on how to assess and enhance policy impacts or program performance. While the data science aspect of this degree teaches you how to analyze data and find actionable insights.

This degree is tailored toward public sector and nonprofit work. Unlike many other program evaluation or data analytics programs, ASU Online’s degree targets students with social science backgrounds and doesn’t assume students have any prior knowledge of computer programming.

What is data analytics?

 

Data analytics is an advanced, highly technical discipline, but it has a simple concept at its core: deriving useful information and insights from data. Analysts in this field select, cleanse, organize, inspect and model data to reach actionable conclusions. Through the Master of Science in program evaluation and data analytics, you can build the competencies needed to develop data-driven reports, dashboards and program evaluations. 

What types of industries require outcome evaluation and program evaluation skills?

 

Program and outcome evaluation skills are broadly applicable in the public, nonprofit and private sectors. While this degree focuses on policies and programs related to governments and nonprofits, its core principles can easily be applied to similar efforts within businesses. Many organizations that want to assess and improve their initiatives can benefit from the expertise of a program evaluation specialist.

Does my master's in program evaluation and data analytics say 'online'?

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.” That’s because ASU Online students learn from the same faculty and receive the same course content as in-person students receive.

What will I learn in this program evaluation degree?

The Master of Science in program evaluation and data analytics features a unique curriculum that combines key principles from both fields. The degree uses public sector and nonprofit examples throughout the coursework and teaches common approaches to performance challenges. You can expect to learn how to leverage data to improve organizational and program performance. Featured courses include:


Core

Foundations of Program Evaluation I: Multiple Regression


Core

Foundations of Program Evaluation II: Research Design


Core

Foundations of Program Evaluation III: Advanced Regression Tools


Core

Foundations of Data Science I: Introduction to Data Programming in R


Core

Foundations of Data Science II: Data Wrangling


Core

Foundations of Data Science III: Project Management


Core

Program Evaluation


Practicum

Data Analytics Practicum


What can I do with a Master of Science in program evaluation and data analytics?

Graduates with a Master of Science in program evaluation and data analytics often work in the public and nonprofit sectors as analysts or program managers. Think tanks, large nonprofits, government agencies and consulting firms are all common employers. Career examples include, but are not limited to:

Data ambassador

Data analyst

Data fellow

Data programmer

Data science engineer

Database-driven website consultant

Program performance and evaluation manager

Programmer analyst

Senior analyst in performance assessment

Educational leaders committed to student development

The impressive faculty in the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions are inspiring the next generation of public service leaders through real-world solutions to issues around child welfare, public safety, city management, human trafficking and water scarcity. Recent faculty highlights include:

  • Fellow of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences.
  • Fellow of the American Psychological Association.
  • Member of the National Academy of Public Administration.

Educational leaders committed to student development

The impressive faculty in the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions are inspiring the next generation of public service leaders through real-world solutions to issues around child welfare, public safety, city management, human trafficking and water scarcity. Recent faculty highlights include:

  • Fellow of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences.
  • Fellow of the American Psychological Association.
  • Member of the National Academy of Public Administration.

Master of Science in program evaluation and data analytics admission requirements

Applicants to the Master of Science in program evaluation and data analytics degree must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions.

Application requirements

Additional admission information

Nationally recognized public service programs

The Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions is a comprehensive public service college dedicated to addressing social problems through teaching, research and service. Our public service programs, from public policy, to social work, to criminal justice, to emergency management, are designed to help prepare our diverse student body to make a difference in the community.

#1


best graduate homeland security and emergency management programs, according to U.S. News & World Report.

#2


in the U.S. and #7 in the world for hospitality, leisure, sport and tourism, according to the Center for World University Rankings.

Top 5


Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management in the nation, according to U.S. News & Report.

Top 10


best online master's in criminal justice programs for veterans, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

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