PhD in Data Science - Frequently Asked Questions
What background do I need to succeed in your program?
We have students coming from degrees in Computational Science, Bioinformatics, Economics, Computer Science, and, of course, Statistics. Keep in mind that our degree plan puts a lot of emphasis on the theoretical foundations in Mathematics and Statistics involved in Data Science but there is also an important part for individual projects, interdisciplinary research, and internships.
What are the minimum scores for the GRE and TOEFL?
You must earn a minimum of 550 for the TOEFL or a 6.5 for the IELTS. While there is no minimum GRE score requirement, the overall score may be taken into consideration. Reviewing all the application requirements helps the faculty admissions committee provide an overall and balanced applicant assessment.
GRE scores are waived ONLY for those students who graduated from UTEP with a undergraduate or graduate degree in recent years.
What information should I include in my statement of purpose?
Your statement needs to address your career goals, specific research interests, faculty members whose research interests you, and how this specific program will enhance your professional development. Also, discuss previous research experience, skills, and training that might not be apparent in your other application requirements.
What GPA should I keep to be in good standing at the university?
Students admitted into graduate programs must remove all admissions conditions within one semester. Failure to meet conditions within one semester may result in dismissal from the Graduate School.
Students admitted into a graduate program must maintain a 3.0 or better cumulative grade point average in all courses. This includes any undergraduate courses taken for leveling purposes.
A student admitted into a graduate program whose cumulative grade point average drops below 3.0 will be placed on academic probation. The student must return the cumulative grade point average to a 3.0 by the next nine hours of study. Failure to meet the 3.0 grade point average requirement during the probationary period will result in dismissal from the Graduate School.
Can I submit unofficial documents as part of my application?
In most cases, the Graduate School allows the applicant to submit unofficial documents as part of an application for program evaluation. In such cases, the Graduate School will require you to submit official documents after admission into a graduate program.
As an international student, how do I start the process to enroll in your program?
You can start by going to the Graduate School website to consult the step-by-step flowchart (with links) for graduate application and admission for international students. This infographic guides you through applying to UTEP, accepting an admission offer, requesting an I-20, completing a Visa process, traveling to El Paso, getting a social security number, getting a UTEP employee ID, and getting U.S. Health insurance coverage.