Learn how to translate data and information into graphics, images, and interactive designs that communicate more effectively to more people. Develop design expertise and analytical abilities for a combination of skills in increasing demand.

Program Overview

The Masters of Professional Studies in Data Analytics and Visualization (MPS)  provides a comprehensive, highly concentrated education in the creation of powerful, data-driven visual narratives. Students learn storytelling concepts and approaches to develop unique analytical applications and explore user interface design strategies to visually reach their audiences. By graduation, students have strong creative and analytical methodologies to visualize data and information, and a diverse portfolio of work to launch their career in visualization.

The Data Analytics and Visualization program is an online, cohort-based graduate program where all coursework is directly related to this expanding field. Completed in just 15 months, the Information Visualization program allows you to earn your degree while working full time.

Residency Overview

The program includes a unique three-day residency on MICA’s campus in Baltimore to build a network of colleagues, interact with industry professionals, and learn the most current ideas and best information visualization practices. This essential component of your graduate experience is not found in other programs.

What is a Master of Professional Studies (MPS) degree?

• Focuses on an applied field of study

• Develops practical skills

• Perfect for current and aspiring professionals

• Delivered online over just 15 months

• Residency fosters interdisciplinary collaboration

• Students maintain a work-life balance

Program Resources

The MICA Canvas environment is a flexible and adaptive platform so students can conveniently access content. Each faculty member holds a weekly live class delivered through Zoom web-conferencing software, whereby students can discuss topics with faculty and classmates. Lectures are recorded so students can revisit them at any time. Students also have access to MICA's web-based resources such as Adobe Creative Suite, Lynda.com, MyMICA (MICA’s student portal), Decker Library and Media Resources Center, and Business Source Premier (the industry's most used business research database).

Who Should Apply

This program appeals to professionals from a wide variety of fields, including business/marketing, science/research, government/policy, consulting, education, journalism, and design, who want to reach their audiences using creative and engaging visual solutions. Students should have a strong interest in and enthusiasm for design, analysis, new technology, creative problem solving, and a willingness to commit to an intensive learning experience.