100% Online
Complete your certificate coursework at your own pace, 100% online.
Apply by
June
19
to start July 6, 2026
9
Credits
$5,250 total
MSCHE Accredited
Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education since 1927.
Launch your career in AI and data science
This certificate is designed to launch your career in applied AI and data science. In today's data-driven economy, organizations need professionals who can build and deploy machine learning solutions-not just analyze data, but create AI-powered systems that solve real business problems.
The Applied Data Science Foundations certificate provides an AI-first, project-driven curriculum where you'll master Python, SQL, and machine learning through hands-on work with real datasets. Each course delivers a portfolio artifact tied to an AI/ML use case, ensuring you graduate with tangible evidence of your capabilities.
Whether you're pivoting into data science, upskilling for AI roles, or preparing for further graduate study, this certificate provides the technical foundation and graduate-level credential that employers value. It is a 9-credit container certificate: you complete any three eligible M.Eng. in Applied Data Science (MEADS) graduate courses, with the recommended path shown below. All 9 credits stack toward Stevens' M.Eng. in Applied Data Science, giving you a clear pathway to continue your education.
Quick Facts
Upcoming Start
Summer II 2026: July 6
This certificate stacks into a full master's.
Ready to go all the way to the degree?
Every credit you earn in this pathway certificate applies toward the Master of Engineering in Applied Data Science upon admission. Explore the full degree to see the complete curriculum, career outcomes, and how your 9 credits give you a head start.
CAREER PATHS IN DATA SCIENCE & AI
Career Outcomes
Data science and AI roles are among the fastest-growing and highest-paying positions in today's job market. From healthcare and finance to retail and technology, every industry is seeking professionals who can turn data into actionable insights and deploy AI-driven solutions.
This certificate prepares you for entry-level to mid-level roles in applied data science, machine learning engineering, and AI analytics. You'll develop the technical skills employers seek-Python, SQL, ML frameworks-while also learning the soft skills needed to communicate insights and collaborate with stakeholders.
Role Title
Median Annual Earnings
ML Engineer Associate
$135,690
AI Solutions Specialist
$132,480
Applied Data Scientist
$115,280
Business Intelligence Developer
$100,360
Data Analyst
$90,720
BY THE NUMBERS
No. 2
BEST NEW JERSEY SCHOOLS
Ranked No. 2 of "Best New Jersey Schools" by Best Value Schools.
7x
Winner
U.S. Distance Learning Association's 21st Century Award for Best Practices in Distance Learning.
No. 8
Online Master's in Data Science
University HQ: No. 8 in Online Master's in Data Science — Best of 2025.
#12
FOR BEST CAREER PLACEMENT
Ranked No. 12 on The Princeton Review's 'Top 20 Best Career Placement' list (2026).
Rankings shown reflect the M.Eng. in Applied Data Science (MEADS) — the degree this certificate stacks into.
What you'll learn
Applied Math for AI
What You'll Learn
- Linear algebra, calculus, and optimization for ML/AI
- Code-driven labs: PCA, regression, gradient descent
- Train and interpret an ML model with AI insight report
Python & Data Pipelines
What You'll Learn
- Python for data science, SQL, ETL/ELT, APIs
- Build AI-ready pipelines from raw data to training datasets
- End-to-end pipeline published to Streamlit app
Machine Learning & AI
What You'll Learn
- Regression, classification, ensembles, neural networks, explainability
- Build and evaluate AI solutions with SHAP/LIME for transparency
- Deploy an ML model with reproducible code and stakeholder narrative
Curriculum
This is a 9-credit container certificate: you complete any three eligible MEADS graduate courses. The recommended path below takes you from mathematical foundations to deploying machine learning models, using industry-standard tools including Python, pandas, scikit-learn, SQL, and cloud data platforms. Every course includes hands-on labs with AI-enhanced learning tools.
Discover Your Future at Stevens
Launch your data science career without interrupting your work
Our 100% online, flexible format empowers professionals to build AI and data science expertise while maintaining their current role. Learn from expert faculty who combine technical depth with practical applications, and connect with a network of accomplished peers and alumni driving innovation in data science and AI.
FACULTY
Learn from expert faculty who bring cutting-edge research and industry experience to every course.
Upendra Prasad
Senior Lecturer
David Landaeta
Adjunct Lecturer
Samuel Kim
Teaching Professor and Associate Chair for Undergraduate Studies in the Department of Computer Science
Upendra Prasad
Senior Lecturer
David Landaeta
Adjunct Lecturer
Samuel Kim
Teaching Professor and Associate Chair for Undergraduate Studies in the Department of Computer Science
Upendra Prasad
Senior Lecturer
Application
We've streamlined the path to your graduate degree. Our Accelerated Application is designed for busy professionals - skip the traditional hurdles and start your Stevens journey in minutes.
At most schools
Traditional Graduate Application
- 2-3 letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose / personal essay
- GRE or GMAT scores
- Official transcripts
- Résumé or CV
- Weeks-long review process
At Stevens
Accelerated Application
- No recommendation letters required
- No essays or personal statements
- No GRE or GMAT required
- Upload unofficial transcripts
- Upload your resume or LinkedIn profile URL
- Apply in minutes, not hours
Official transcripts will be due within 2 months of enrollment. A bachelor's degree is required. Stevens may request additional documentation if needed.
PROOF OF BACHELOR'S DEGREE
Upload a copy of your unofficial transcripts from all undergraduate institutions where credit was earned. This allows us to verify your academic background quickly.
Official transcripts will be due within 2 months of enrollment. Stevens may request additional documentation if needed.
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
Demonstrate your professional experience by providing one of the following:
- Upload your résumé – Highlight your work experience, leadership roles, and career achievements
- Link your LinkedIn profile – A convenient alternative that showcases your professional journey
Work experience is valued but not required for admission.
LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION
The Accelerated Application streamlines your application process by removing the recommendation letter requirement, allowing you to apply faster without coordinating with references.
GMAT/GRE
Standardized test scores are not required for admission to the Online Applied Data Science Foundations certificate.
Tuition & Financial Aid
$5,250
Total Certificate Cost
$583
Per Credit
Corporate Tuition Assistance
Many employers reimburse up to $5,250 per year for job-relevant education. This certificate is strategically priced to align with the IRS $5,250 annual tax-free employer tuition benefit, which can make it a practical choice when your company covers eligible coursework.
Additional Tuition Discounts
Alumni and corporate partner tuition discounts may be available to students who qualify.
Apply by the priority deadline (June 19, 2026) to maximize your funding opportunities.
Certificate programs are not eligible for federal student aid.
Tuition based on current per-credit rates. Tuition and fees are subject to change annually.
Tuition Calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your tuition with available discounts and employer reimbursement benefits. Keep in mind that most of our students receive some form of financial support, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.
See how much you could save based on your eligibility for workforce partner, alumni, and resident discounts.
Key Dates & Deadlines
SUMMER II 2026
Early Submit
June 5, 2026
Eligible for $250 deposit waiver upon admission.
Priority Submit
June 19, 2026
Recommended deadline for best course selection.
Final Submit
June 26, 2026
Last day to submit your application.
Start of Classes
July 6, 2026
Begin your Data Science journey at Stevens.
*Applicants who apply by the early submit deadline and are admitted may be eligible for a $250 deposit waiver. Other conditions may apply.
