Residencies Common Questions
When do the residencies occur?
Northwestern’s Master’s in Data Science Programme is the only online programme to offer an in-person component - two residencies which happen in India - in the 4th and 6th terms of the programme.
MS_DSP 422(a) Practical Machine Learning will carry .5 course credits toward your degree progress, and is comprised of the actual in-course components of the curriculum
MS_DSP 422(b) Practical Machine Learning will carry the second .5 credits toward your degree progress, and is comprised of the mandatory residency component of the curriculum. In order to earn the degree credit, students are required to attend the residency in person at either the Chennai or Gurgaon campuses.
Similarly, MS_DSP 498 Capstone is split into both “a” and “b” sections, with .5 credits earned through in-class contributions, while the final .5 credits are earned by attending the second required on-site residency.
What is the value of the residencies?
The two-day residencies are unique, in-person experiences which enhance the online Master’s in Data Science Programme.
Residencies are a great opportunity to learn, network, and engage with peers and faculty in a campus-style setting. During the residencies, students will work together face-to-face with their group members on required class assignments and present their projects. Participants gain exposure to each other’s work and different approaches to solving data science problems. We also conduct numerous career-support activities over the course of the two residencies.
What are the benefits of the residencies?
Networking: While you have met your peers virtually and interacted with most of them through the course of the program, the residency experience allows you to further strengthen relationships with the highly accomplished professionals who are pursuing this program alongside you. Our breezy campuses are an ideal setting to bond with your classmates over meals, snacks, and other enriching activities. Since all learners will spend at least one, or sometimes two nights on-campus, the residential setting facilitates cohort bonding.
Academics: Northwestern University and Great Learning will deliver a high-quality learning experience that is an essential part of DSP. You will interact with faculty extensively via formal lectures and more informal social events. While each cohort will have a different experience, you can expect to participate in academic events such as Kaggle competitions and comprehensive Capstone presentation and critique sessions. Eminent industry professionals will host sessions on how data science is applied in practice. These sessions will cover a variety of topics from different industries, ensuring you leave with practical and applied knowledge that extends well beyond the classroom.
Career Support: We provide extensive career support for learners who are looking to change their careers, and for those who want to grow within current employment. In the residency, group sessions provide guidance on how to accelerate careers in data science. One-on-one mentoring sessions with accomplished industry practitioners, where learners can ask in-depth questions about their short and long-term career progression, are also available.
What are the residency fees?
The fees for each residency are approximately $500*, and are paid directly to Great Learning. These fees cover the following:
- High-quality single occupancy accommodation for 1-2 nights at the Great Lakes Institute of Management campus in Chennai or Gurgaon
- 3 meals per day plus coffee, tea, and snacks
- A gala networking dinner with a variety of cuisine and beverages
- Use of on-campus facilities (gym, tennis courts, pool table amongst others)
- Compensation to experts and mentors for their time
*These fees do not cover personal expenses for travel to the Great Lakes campuses.