
DOCTORAL DEGREES
Doctor of Philosophy in Data Science
Accredited by
- Career-connected curriculum
- One-to-one faculty mentorship
- No GRE or residency required
Format
100% Online
Completion Time
This program is designed to be completed within 45 months. However, students who pursue this program at an accelerated rate may be able to complete the program in as few as 35 months.
35 Months
Credits
60
Average Cost Per Credit
$1,104
Program Overview
Why Get a Doctor of Philosophy in Data Science?

As artificial intelligence (AI) transforms industries and drives demand for data-driven innovation, National University’s 100%-online Doctor of Philosophy in Data Science helps you build the advanced research and analytical expertise needed to lead in this rapidly evolving field. Through a one-to-one learning model, this Forbes-recognized program deepens your knowledge of machine learning and artificial intelligence while preparing you to contribute new insights to the field.

Support for the Whole You
Career-Focused
Build advanced skills in data science, from machine learning and predictive analytics to CRISP-DM and responsible AI.
Dissertation Support
Receive individualized support through every phase of the dissertation process, from prospectus development to final defense.
Faculty Mentorship
Every course pairs you with one dedicated faculty member, providing doctoral-level mentorship and expert guidance throughout the program.
Flexible Online Courses
Learn on your schedule with no waiting for a semester to begin, letting you move through the program on a timeline that fits your career.
Admission and Degree Requirements
Getting Started
Admission requirements:
- Complete NU’s online application
- Master’s degree from an accredited institution
- Master’s GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- Optional: transfer up to 12 eligible doctoral credits
Admissions support:
- No GRE, GMAT, or entrance exams required
- No application fee
- New classes start every Monday
- Dedicated support from admissions advisors
Earning Your Degree
Requirements include:
- Minimum 48 credit hours completed through NU
- Satisfactory completion of Pre-Candidacy Prospectus
- Approval of dissertation manuscript and oral defense completed
- Grade Point Average of 3.0 (letter grade of “B”) or higher
- Submission of the approved final dissertation manuscript to NU Registrar
Student support:
- Free tutoring, career counselling, and wellness services
- Dedicated support from prospectus to proposal to final defense
- One-on-one faculty mentoring with weekly feedback
- Dissertation Completion Pathway (DCP)
Program Structure

1
Foundations
Typical Pace: 1–2 courses/term
Initial core coursework establishing the theoretical, ethical, and methodological grounding of your discipline.

2
Specialization
Typical Pace: 1–2 courses/term
Focused study within your chosen area of concentration and interest.

3
Research
Typical Pace: 1–2 courses/term
Mentored methods and design training that builds independent scholarly research capacity.

4
Prospectus
Typical Pace: 1 course/term
The gateway milestone involving an initial proposal establishing the foundational components of independent doctoral research.

5
Doctoral Student Experience
Typical Pace: 1 course/term
Structured coursework designed to sequentially develop doctoral research with consistent faculty committee support.
*Program structure and progression may vary.*
Required Courses
Review the required courses that support your academic growth and prepare you for future career opportunities.
Requirements for Doctoral Programs
20 COURSES
Principles of Data Science
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
This course provides an introduction and overview of data science in order to make informed decisions about business needs. The objective of this course is to introduce you to the nature and methods of data science at the doctoral level. While data science is a varied and nuanced field that generally combines computer science with advanced mathematics, it’s application in research and industry ranges from understanding problem statements to producing insights using validated methods. You will explore data science life cycle and determine appropriate design methods and management of data to fit the context of research and/or industry issues.
Exploratory Data Analysis
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
This course includes analytics methods to understand how data is shaped in relation to how it can be analyzed. This is a foundational skill for data scientists and important to apply prior to creating confirmatory (final) models that predict and deliver end-user insights for decision making. The focal points in this course are descriptive statistics and exploratory data analysis. Specific attention is given to measures of central tendency, clustering, variability, and frequency. You will learn identification of the appropriate univariate analysis for use in applied research in a business context. You will also learn to apply clustering analysis in relation confirmatory models.
Statistical Modeling
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
Introducing statistical techniques is essential for extracting meaningful insights from data focusing on projects and research of Data Science. Through a comprehensive eight-week journey, students will explore topics such as normal distribution, hypothesis testing, power of test, type I and type II errors, sampling distributions, bootstrapping methods, diagnostic tools, validation techniques, and more. The course emphasizes practical applications, equipping learners with the skills to make data-driven decisions and extract hidden patterns from datasets. By mastering these inferential statistics techniques, students will be well-prepared to tackle complex real-world problems and enhance their expertise in the field of Data Science.
Predictive Analysis
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
A comprehensive exploration of advanced predictive modeling and machine learning techniques. The course equips students with the skills needed to harness the power of data for making informed decisions. The course dives into regression models, decision trees, support vector machines, and ensemble methods like random forests and gradient boosting. Students will also learn about clustering methods, time series analysis, and the application of these techniques in real-world scenarios. Through hands-on projects and assessments, participants will become proficient in building predictive models, evaluating models, and effectively leveraging machine learning algorithms. It also equips students to interpret and communicate their findings effectively.
Databases & Business Intelligence
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
Data and databases are the foundation of all business systems. Organizations that do not understand the importance of data management are less likely to survive in the modern economy. During this course, you will study advanced concepts of database management systems and data warehouses. You will also research processes and techniques used to improve data repositories, manipulate data, and prevent data corruption. By the end of the course, you will be able to construct, assess, and transform data to improve business intelligence to support informed business decisions.
Big Data Integration
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
This course focuses on modern tools and methods to develop and work with large datasets. Some course concepts include the exploration of relational databases, distributed storage software, distributed computing methods, analytics and algorithms. You will explore current topics in the area of big data and potential future problems. You will investigate appropriate architectural techniques associated with big data. You will also evaluate the constructs of ethics in data science, propose techniques for application, and design a system to produce insights.
Data Mining
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
This course addresses needs in industry, business, and academia to improve performance and advance scientific knowledge. You will learn data mining techniques that help discover patterns, trends, anomalies, and associations that are otherwise hidden or unknown. In addition, this course introduces the fundamentals, principles, implementation techniques, and applications of data mining. Learning also includes data curation techniques, focuses on exploratory data analysis, prediction, classification, association analysis, similarity assessment and clustering, outlier, and anomaly detection. Interpreting and evaluating data analysis/data mining results is explored. Additionally, data mining experience for applications in computer vision, big data, and social networks will be provided.
Multivariate Analysis
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
This course examines the use of multivariate analysis to provide statistical and applied insight to data science problems. You will apply a variety of multivariate methods by selecting the appropriate models for the research questions posed and the data type. You will engage in hypothesis testing using parameters of multivariate data. Specifically, you will develop problem solutions by analyzing multidimensional data to derive meaningful insights into problem statements. Finally, you will present your results and actionable insights in an appropriate format for your audience.
Current Topics in Data Analysis
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
Exploring univariate data analysis, beginning with the fundamentals of clustering univariate data, students learn to group similar data points an essential skill for identifying patterns in various fields. Moving on to advanced analytical methods, students extract deeper insights and discern trends. The next focus is on predictive analytics, where students acquire the skills to forecast outcomes using univariate data implementing predictive techniques, processes, and diagnostics. The natural language processing, underlining the criticality of effectively communicating analytical results is also a subject explored. Each section is carefully crafted to provide a detailed and practical learning experience, making this course ideal for anyone seeking to master the spectrum of univariate data analysis, from basic clustering techniques to advanced predictive and communication strategies.
Artificial Intelligence
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
Exploring univariate data analysis, beginning with the fundamentals of clustering univariate data, students learn to group similar data points an essential skill for identifying patterns in various fields. Moving on to advanced analytical methods, students extract deeper insights and discern trends. The next focus is on predictive analytics, where students acquire the skills to forecast outcomes using univariate data implementing predictive techniques, processes, and diagnostics. The natural language processing, underlining the criticality of effectively communicating analytical results is also a subject explored. Each section is carefully crafted to provide a detailed and practical learning experience, making this course ideal for anyone seeking to master the spectrum of univariate data analysis, from basic clustering techniques to advanced predictive and communication strategies.
Data Visualization
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
Evaluating the accuracy and effectiveness of graphical representations of data is a critical skill required of experienced data scientists. This advanced course in data visualization will help you identify the appropriate questions required to evaluate the validity of the insights provided by others and develop the skills needed to influence other decision makers. During this course, you will synthesize research on the best practices associated with communicating through data visualization. You will also study techniques and processes you can use to dynamically communicate your interpretations of effective graphic interactive representations of data.
Introduction to Research Design & Methodology for Technology Leaders
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
This course provides a survey of the different methods used to conduct technology-based research. During this course, you will learn about the research principles and methodologies that guide scientific inquiry in order to develop an understanding of the effects of research on individuals and organizations. Specifically, you will study the scientific research lifecycle, data collection methods, and research design methodology. You will finish the course by selecting a research design methodology to support your research interests through the remainder of your program.
Research Design in Data Science
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
This advanced Data Science research design course immerses you in diverse methodologies, equipping you with a multifaceted approach to data-driven investigations. From the foundations of quantitative research, which harnesses statistical analyses to draw generalizable conclusions from large datasets to the cutting-edge realm of Constructive Research focuses on models, frameworks, tools, and software used by industry to improve value creation. Throughout the course, you will delve into DSR (Design Science Research) and examine how it integrates theoretical and empirical constructs with industry practices to develop applied and testable models, enhancing the Data Science landscape. Common approaches include experimental design, where controlled experiments are conducted to test hypotheses, observational studies that involve data collection without intervention, and exploratory research to uncover patterns and relationships in data. Furthermore, cross-sectional and longitudinal designs allow for the examination of data at specific time points or over time.
Advanced Research Design in Data Science
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
Technical, quantitative research involves statistical analysis of data collected from a larger number of participants to determine an outcome that can be applied to a general population. Technical constructive research focuses on models, frameworks, tools, and software used by the industry to improve value creation. A constructive approach to research of a technical nature integrates theoretical and empirical constructs with standard practices and experience to develop an applied and testable model to improve the field of Data Science. During this course, you will work through the scientific research process and apply your knowledge of both quantitative and constructive research design to develop a technical research proposal that you can use to support your research interests through the remainder of your program.
Data, Information, Knowledge
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
New data science technologies and programs should be aligned to the organizational mission, vision, and values; thus, it is important for technology leaders to develop data, information, and knowledge management policies. During this advanced course in data and knowledge management, you will develop an enterprise data governance strategy that integrates industry standards and best business practices in data science. You will also design metrics to measure and analyze data integrity to ensure data validity, evaluate various influences on enterprise data and knowledge management, and recommend data management solutions.
PhD Pre-Candidacy Prospectus for Data Science
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
The Pre-Candidacy Prospectus is intended to ensure students have mastered knowledge of their discipline prior to doctoral candidacy status and are able to demonstrate the ability to design empirical research as an investigator before moving on to the dissertation research coursework. During this course, you will demonstrate the ability to synthesize empirical, peer reviewed research to prepare for the dissertation sequence of courses. This course should be completed only after the completion of all foundation, specialization, and research courses.
Components of the Dissertation
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
In this course, students will complete Chapters 1 and 2 of their Dissertation Proposal. Chapter 1 includes a brief review of the literature with substantiating evidence of the problem, the research purpose and questions, the intended methodological design and approach, and the significance of the study, while Chapter 2 consists of the literature review, including the theoretical/conceptual framework. Completed and committee-approved (against the minimum rubric standards) Chapter 1 and Chapter 2 are required to pass this course successfully.
Completing the Dissertation Proposal
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
In this course, students will complete Chapter 3 and their Dissertation Proposal (DP). Chapter 3 includes the research methodology and design, population, sample, measurement instruments, data collection and analysis, limitations, and ethical considerations. Students will then assemble their Dissertation Proposal including all appendices necessary. A completed, committee-approved Chapter 3 and a final approved Dissertation Proposal (against the minimum rubric standards) are required by the end of the course.
Data Collection and Analysis
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
In this course, students will prepare, submit, and obtain approval of their IRB application. After obtaining IRB approval, students will collect data and submit a data collection verification form when data collection is complete. Students will begin synthesizing collected data and analyzing results. IRB study approval and a completed data collection verification form are required by the end of the course.
The Dissertation Manuscript and Defense
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
In this course, students will complete Chapters 4 and 5, followed by their Dissertation Manuscript. Chapter 4 includes presenting study results aligned to the research design and research questions and/or hypotheses. Chapter 5 includes study implications, recommendations, and conclusions. Students will then compile and present findings in the completed Dissertation Manuscript and in an Oral Defense. A completed, committee-approved Chapter 5, Dissertation Manuscript, and successful Oral Defense (against the minimum rubric standards) are required to complete the course and graduate.
Trusted and
Accredited

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.
Career Impact
At NU, we believe education should open doors to new opportunities. Explore career paths, salary insights, and workforce demand related to this degree, and discover how your education can support your professional goals.

*Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.
Professional Pathways
*Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Your degree is possible at NU. From scholarships and financial aid to prior learning and transfer credit, we help remove financial barriers to your degree.

Get Financial Aid Through
the FAFSA
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) determines eligibility for financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study programs. It’s the first step in applying for financial aid at NU.
- Apply once each year to be considered for federal
financial aid - Required for most grants and loans at National University

Scholarships
NU is dedicated to making higher education affordable and accessible, offering scholarships and grants that help eligible students reduce college costs, ease financial stress, and reach their goals.
- Military scholarships for servicemembers, Veterans, spouses, and dependents
- Need-based and merit-based scholarships for undergraduates, graduates, and alumni

More Funding Options
Don’t let financial worries stop you from getting the education you want. NU’s financial aid advisors can help you navigate available resources, including student loans, grants, tuition payment plans, and employer tuition assistance.
- Federal and private student loans for flexible financing
- Tuition payment plans and employer assistance options
Make the Most of Your
Prior Learning
Eligible transfer credit and credit for prior learning may apply toward your doctoral program. Speak with an advisor to learn more about your options.
Contact the admission team at (855) 355-6288

ABD Students Welcome
Finish your Dissertation With Us
NU’s Dissertation Completion Pathway (DCP) program is designed to support students who are all-but-dissertation (ABD), transferring all previous credits leading up to the dissertation
- Dedicated DCP advisors and faculty who understand your journey and desire to finish your doctorate
- DCP Bridge courses, virtual sessions, and Dissertation Boot Camps to assist students from day one

Upcoming Dissertation Boot Camps

Upcoming Dissertation Boot Camps

Take the Next Step
Learn more about our career-focused programs and flexible options for working professionals.
Why Choose NU for Your Doctorate?
National University is redefining doctoral education for career-driven learners.

No GRE Required
Rigorous doctoral study delivered fully online, with no standardized test scores required.
For Working Professionals
Flexible online doctoral programs designed to fit demanding schedules while maintaining academic rigor.
Dedicated Support
NU offers free tutoring, career coaching, wellness services, and more to support your success and well-being.
Career-Focused
Industry-aligned coursework and hands-on learning supported by an alumni network of 255,000+ worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions
The PhD-EdL is a research-oriented doctoral program designed to prepare educational leaders to engage with theory, research, and policy for learning organizations. It’s designed for professionals aiming to influence educational practice or organizational leadership across sectors; including K–12 schools, NU’s Doctor of Philosophy in Data Science is a 100%-online research doctorate for working professionals who want to lead at the intersection of data science, machine learning, and AI. The program covers the full data science life cycle through applied and theoretical lenses, from statistical modeling and predictive analytics to responsible AI and original dissertation research. It can be completed in 60 credits with no GRE required. education, military or corporate learning organizations, nonprofits, or policy agencies.
CRISP-DM, the Cross-Industry Standard Process for Data Mining, is the most widely used framework for data science projects across industries. NU’s curriculum is explicitly aligned with it, meaning graduates don’t just understand data science theory –– they understand how doctoral-level research connects to the workflows organizations use. This applied orientation is what third-party evaluators like Forbes Advisor cited when listing the program among the best in the nation.
In every course, each student works with one dedicated faculty member rather than in a class cohort. This creates a doctoral mentorship relationship from day one. Faculty provide personalized feedback, expert guidance, and continuous support through coursework and into dissertation research. For a research-intensive program, this model produces a fundamentally different depth of engagement than traditional online formats.
The dissertation sequence spans four courses, from the pre-candidacy prospectus through data collection, analysis, manuscript completion, and final oral defense. Students contribute original scholarship to the field of data science, with faculty providing structured support at every stage. Continuous enrollment is required throughout the sequence.
The degree can prepare graduates for senior research and leadership roles, including data scientist, machine learning engineer or scientist, data science manager or director, research scientist, and computer and information systems manager. As AI concentrates hiring at the senior level, demand for doctoral-level data science expertise is among the fastest-growing in the field, with these roles consistently ranking among the highest-paid in technology.
Yes. The University may accept qualifying doctoral-level transfer credits from an accredited institution completed with a grade of “B” or better. Contact the admissions team to confirm how prior coursework may apply toward your degree requirements.
Hear from Our Graduates
Working professionals who have turned their degree into leadership impact.

Throughout my PhD journey, the support of National University’s library and its exceptional faculty has been instrumental. The professors have consistently provided invaluable guidance, high expectations, and a wealth of knowledge.
Charles H.
Veteran, Class of 2026

I utilized the Academic Success Center and a writing coach once I entered the dissertation stage. This was incredibly beneficial as it provided me with additional insights into my work.
Jennice Y.
Class of 2025

As a Navy Veteran, it means the world to have a school show the military and its Veterans so much respect and love for our time and service.
Kareece B.
Class of 2024

My doctoral journey with NU was truly amazing. The program was enriching, and I felt consistently supported by faculty, advisors, tech staff, and my dissertation committee.
Tiffany M.
Class of 2025
Program Disclosure
Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.
Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.
NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.
All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.
National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.
Additional Resources
Meet the Demand for Data Science Leaders
Earn your PhD in a flexible online program designed for working professionals advancing into high-demand roles in this rapidly evolving field.
