Woods College of Advancing Studies

Master of Science in Applied Analytics (On Campus and Online)

Program Description

The Master of Science in Applied Analytics offers practical curriculum in advanced analytics with emphasis on Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence approaches. The focus of the program is to equip students to carry out analytics on a variety of data sets in terms of size and complexity, identify patterns and causal relationships, derive results and turn them into actionable insights, and, ultimately, communicate the insights to a variety of audiences in order to influence business or policy decisions. The curriculum instills analytic rigor, with appreciation for interaction with non-technical audiences and the need for communication and influencing skills. In addition, as a part of Boston College’s focus on formation and service to others, the ethical side of analytics is also considered whether directly through the Model Governance course or indirectly through interactions and instruction in other courses.

Graduates of MS in Applied Analytics program will be able to perform cutting-edge analytic work and be able to take data projects through the complete lifecycle from inception to delivery of insights. They will be able to communicate their findings to non-technical audiences and understand the implications of their recommendation on actual business and/or policy actions and outcomes. In short, graduates of the MS in Applied Analytics will do analytics not for sake of analytics, but to drive real impact.

The Master of Science in Applied Analytics is a ten-course degree program. The program can be completed in a twelve-month period, but is designed to be flexible in meeting student needs, allowing students to attend full- or part-time. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for admission in the Fall, Spring and Summer semesters. All undergraduate majors are encouraged to apply.

Program graduates will be able to:

• Design analytic approaches to solve complex problems
• Understand and deploy advanced analytic techniques in search of actionable insights
• Use machine learning and artificial intelligence tools and approaches to leverage data for business and policy decision-making
• Draw insights from analytics and communicate them clearly to non-technical audiences
• Drive real impact based on results and insights from analytics

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college/university (minimum GPA 3.0)
• Official academic transcripts from colleges/universities where courses were completed
• GRE (reporting code 7534) or GMAT (reporting code 44X-HX-07) are optional
• Personal Statement
• Letters of Recommendation (Two)
• Resume
• Application Fee
• Prerequisite courses: Statistics and Calculus I*

Note: *CLEP exam score of 56 or higher is acceptable in lieu of a passing grade from an accredited undergrad program.

International Students—Additional Admission Requirements

In addition to the general requirements listed above, international students have the following requirements:

• TOEFL (minimum 90–100 range) (reporting code 3276) or IELTS (minimum 6.5–7.5 range) from within the past two years, unless they have completed their undergraduate degree at a regionally-accredited U.S. institution, or a foreign institution in which English is the medium of instruction.
• Detailed course-by-course transcript evaluation indicating conferral of an undergraduate degree that is equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (see transcript requirements for international students).

Degree Requirements

Ten courses are required to complete the Master of Science in Applied Analytics.

Foundational Requirements (All Required, 6 Credits*)

• ADAN7220 Mathematical Methods for Machine Learning I
• ADEC7301 Data Analysis

*Students who have taken Linear Algebra in their undergraduate studies can obtain Course Equivalence for ADAN 7220. Students who have completed advanced Statistics courses such as Econometrics in their undergraduate studies can obtain course equivalence for ADAN/ADEC 7310. Course Equivalence does not result in reduction of required credits, but allows students to enroll in electives instead of fundamental courses.

Core Requirements (All Required, 12 Credits)

• ADAN/ADEC7340 AI Algorithms I/Big Data Econometrics
• ADAN7500 Algorithmic Ethics and Governance—from Traditional to AI/ML
• ADAN7350 AI Algorithms II
• ADAN7905 AI/ML Software Tools and Platforms

Project Requirements (All Required, 3 Credits)

• ADAN8888 Applied Analytics Project

Electives Requirements (Selected from the Following, Minimum of 9 Credits**)

• ADAN/ADEC7320 Regression Models/Econometrics
• ADAN7399 Computer Vision
• ADAN/ADEC7460 Predictive Analytics/Forecasting
• ADAN/ADEC7410 Operations Research
• ADEC7421 Applied Econometrics for Causal Inference
• ADEC7422 Economic Modeling for Policy Analytics
• ADAN7431 Natural Language Processing
• ADAN/ADEC7470 Advanced Econometrics
• ADAN7520 Product Management in Machine Learning
  
• ADEC7910 Software Tools for Data Analysis

*In consultation with their Advisor and/or Program Director, students can take other electives from the Applied Economics program.

**Students who have undergraduate preparation that allows for a course equivalence for Fundamental Courses, can take 6 credit hours of electives and possibly take electives from other programs at WCAS with permission of the Program Director).

Scheduling and Tuition

Program courses are scheduled ordinarily meeting one time per week starting in the late afternoons on weeknights and during the day on Saturdays. Courses meet face-to-face or online in a variety of formats. Students can complete the program in either modality or combine classes according to their schedule.

Information about tuition rates for the 2024–2025 academic year is available on the Tuition and Fees page. Students are assessed a registration fee each semester they enroll in courses.

Master of Science in Applied Economics (On Campus and Online)

Program Description

The Master of Science in Applied Economics offers a practical and comprehensive curriculum to students interested in acquiring skills related to the analysis and interpretation of data across a variety of fields. Through training in Economic theory, graduates will be equipped to understand the context of data they are analyzing, and through training in cutting-edge analytic techniques, they will be able to analyze the data, interpret and present results to decision makers, and make recommendations bolstered by the results of the data analysis. The focus of the program is on preparing graduates to use rigorous analytic approaches to provide actionable insights for their organization. The program provides individuals with extensive training in the tools and methods necessary for understanding complex policy issues, industry trends, and analytic strategies within fields and industries including health care, finance, marketing, and environmental policy. These skills are developed within a curricular framework that emphasizes reflective, people-centered, ethical decision making reflected in a Jesuit, Ignatian tradition. The program is intended for individuals seeking to begin or advance their careers in industry, policy and government, or non-profit sector.

The Master of Science in Applied Economics is a ten-course degree program. The program can be completed in a twelve-month period, but is designed to be flexible in meeting student needs, allowing students to attend full- or part-time. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for admission in the Fall, Spring and Summer semesters. All undergraduate majors are encouraged to apply.

Program graduates develop career skills that include:

• Use of economic models to analyze the choices made by consumers, investors, firms, and governments
• Utilizing macro and microeconomic models in order to analyze business, policy, and social issues and decisions
• Interpreting and analyze macroeconomic data to formulate economic policy and to evaluate the impact of macroeconomic events and forces on their organization
• Practical knowledge of data analysis including econometric and non-econometric approaches
• Applying economic models and econometric techniques in the context of economic analysis in order to address practical business or policy issues
• Use of statistical/econometric software packages
• Ability to evaluate the ethical ramifications of economic policy proposals

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college/university (minimum GPA 3.0)
• Official academic transcripts from colleges/universities where courses were completed
• GRE (reporting code 7534) or GMAT (reporting code 44X-HX-07) are optional
• Personal Statement
• Letter of Recommendation (Two)
• Resume
• Application Fee
• Prerequisite courses: Principles of Microeconomics,* Principles of Macroeconomics,* Statistics,* Calculus I,* and Calculus II**

Notes: *CLEP exam score of 56 or higher is acceptable in lieu of a passing grade from an accredited undergrad program.

**Calculus II may be taken concurrently during your first semester of study. This requirement can also be fulfilled by taking ADEC3510 Mathematics for Economists (these prerequisite courses do not count toward the degree).

International Students—Additional Admission Requirements

In addition to the general requirements listed above, international students have the following requirements:

• TOEFL (minimum 90–100 range) (reporting code 3276) or IELTS (minimum 6.5–7.5 range) from within the past two years, unless they have completed their undergraduate degree at a regionally-accredited U.S. institution, or a foreign institution in which English is the medium of instruction.
• Detailed course-by-course transcript evaluation indicating conferral of an undergraduate degree that is equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (see transcript requirements for international students).

Degree Requirements

Ten courses are required to complete the Master of Science in Applied Economics.

Core Requirements (All Required, 15 Credits)

• ADEC7200 Applied Macroeconomic Theory
• ADEC7201 Applied Microeconomic Theory
• ADEC7310 Data Analysis
• ADEC7320 Econometrics
• ADEC7500 Ethics, Economics and Public Policy

Electives Requirements (Selected from the Following, 15 Credits)

• ADEC7101 Directed Readings and Research
• ADEC7220 Linear Algebra and Vector Calculus
• ADEC7340 Advanced Urban and Regional Economics
• ADEC7350 Economics of Banking and Insurance
• ADEC7360 Financial Economics
• ADEC7370 Applied Stress Testing for Economists
• ADEC7380 Empirical Health Economics
• ADEC7390 Empirical Money and Banking
• ADEC7460 Predictive Analytics/Forecasting
• ADEC7410 Operations Research in Applied Economics
• ADEC7420 Development Economics
• ADEC7421 Applied Econometrics for Causal Inference
• ADEC7422 Economic Modeling for Policy Analytics
• ADEC7430 Big Data Econometrics
• ADEC7450 Private Sector Development and Economic Growth
• ADEC7500 Ethics, Economics and Public Policy
• ADEC7510 Law and Economics
• ADEC7520 Transfer Pricing
• ADEC7530 Measuring Business Cycles, Trends and Growth Cycles
• ADEC7550 Empirical Labor Economics
• ADEC7810 Empirical Behavioral Economics
• ADEC7820 Economics of Innovation and Entrepreneurship
• ADEC7830 Communication and Leadership in Applied Economics
• ADEC7840 Management of Projects in Applied Economics
• ADEC7910 Software Tools for Data Analysis
• ADEC7920 Market Research and Analysis
• ADEC7930 Fundamentals of Private Equity
• ADEC7940 Environmental and Natural Resource Economics
• ADEC8880 Directed Practicum
  

*Students can also take electives from the Applied Analytics program in consultation with their advisor and Program Director. 

Scheduling and Tuition

Program courses are scheduled ordinarily meeting one time per week starting in the late afternoons on weeknights and during the day on Saturdays. Courses meet face-to-face or online in a variety of formats. Students can complete the program in either modality or combine classes according to their schedule. Students who complete the required courses for the Graduate Certificate in Data Analytics will be awarded the Certificate at the time of conferral of the Master degree.

Information about tuition rates for the 2024–2025 academic year is available on the Tuition and Fees page. Students are assessed a registration fee each semester they enroll in courses.

Master of Science in Cybersecurity Policy and Governance (On Campus, Hybrid, and Online)

Program Description

The Master of Science in Cybersecurity Policy and Governance provides students with the skills necessary to manage the critical and emerging cybersecurity issues faced by private industry and government. Taught by industry leaders and practitioners, students will learn applied and hands-on methods to identify, assess, and manage cyber risk, and to develop and implement a proactive, comprehensive cybersecurity strategy to effectively defend, mitigate, and recover from a cyber-attack. The program prepares practitioners to design and lead business cases for investment to senior executives, boards of directors, and government officials, and to bridge the communication gap between Information Technology (IT) security professionals and key business stakeholders.

Students will learn to cultivate strategies based on ethical principles informed by company policies and government regulations to protect against and respond to cyber threats. The program emphasizes leadership, critical thinking, analytic problem solving, and strong communication skills. These competencies prepare practitioners to meet and respond to the varying issues presented by a rapidly changing cyber ecosystem. 

Senior executives and business managers cannot design, develop, and implement cybersecurity and data privacy business strategies without having an understanding of the varying legal and regulatory requirements (e.g., SEC, FTC, EU GDPR, NIST, NY DFS, among many other national and international laws and frameworks). Depending on their position within the business organization, a deep understanding of subject matter in cybersecurity and data protection and privacy law and compliance is needed. The M.S. in Cybersecurity Policy and Governance program integrates a technology perspective with business strategy and policy knowledge to help students become indispensable leaders for any organization.

The Master of Science in Cybersecurity Policy and Governance is a ten-course degree program that can be completed in a sixteen-month period, but is designed to be flexible in meeting students’ needs. The program is intended for individuals seeking skills in cybersecurity, data privacy, national security strategy, leadership, management, and policy to begin or advance their careers in private industry or government, including, but not limited to business and government professionals, executives, managers, privacy advisors, entrepreneurs, business practitioners, compliance officers, and IT professionals. As a working professional, you may wish to attend full- or part-time. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for admission in the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college/university (minimum GPA 3.0)
• Official academic transcripts from colleges/universities where courses were completed
• Personal Statement
• Letter of Recommendation (Two)
• Resume
• Application Fee

International Students

Applicants requiring a student visa to enroll in this program are currently not eligible to apply for this program.

Program Requirements

Ten courses are required to complete the Master of Science in Cybersecurity Policy and Governance.

Core Requirements (All Required, 15 Credits)

• ADCY6000 Cyber Ecosystem and Cybersecurity
• ADCY6050 Cybersecurity Policy: Privacy and Legal Requirements
• ADCY6300 Network and Infrastructure Security (Prereq: ADCY 6000)
• ADCY6350 Incident Response and Management
• ADCY6500 Organizational Effectiveness: Governance, Risk Management, and Compliancy

Elective Requirements

Students may select courses from a track below or 15 credits of any non-core courses.

Cybersecurity Risk Management and Strategy Track

• ADCY6400 Managing Cyber Risk: Mobile Devices & Social Networking
  
• ADCY6475 Security in the Cloud
• ADCY6600 Cybersecurity: The Role of the CISO
• ADCY6840 Cybersecurity: Strategy and Implementation
  
• ADCY6925 Cybersecurity: Risk Management & Resiliency

Computer Security and Artificial Intelligence Track

• ADCY 6450 CYBER Investigations & Digital Forensics
• ADCY6475 Security in the Cloud
• ADCY6600 Cybersecurity: The Role of the CISO
  
• ADCY6810 Cybersecurity: Designing Offensive & Defensive Capabilities
• ADCY6820 Cybersecurity Engineering

National Security and Global Affairs Track

• ADCY6200 International Cybersecurity
• ADCY6450 CYBER Investigations and Digital Forensics
• ADCY6620 Cybersecurity Litigation & Strategy
• ADCY6630 Cyber Crime
• ADCY6640 National Security: Law, Policy, & Government Investigations
• ADCY6650 Role of Intelligence: Enabling Proactive Security

Non-Core Courses

• ADCY 6200 International Cybersecurity 
• ADCY 6400 Managing Cyber Risk: Mobile Devices and Social Networking 
• ADCY 6425 Cyber Strategy: Innovation, Technology, and Formative Development 
• ADCY 6450 CYBER Investigations & Digital Forensics 
• ADCY 6475 Security in the Cloud 
• ADCY 6600 Cybersecurity: The Role of the CISO
• ADCY 6620 Cybersecurity Litigation & Strategy 
• ADCY 6630 Cyber Crime
• ADCY 6640 National Security: Law, Policy & Investigations 
• ADCY 6650 Role of Intelligence: Enabling Proactive Security 
• ADCY 6700 Privacy Law
• ADCY 6810 Cybersecurity: Designing Offensive & Defensive Capabilities
• ADCY 6840 Cybersecurity: Strategy and Implementation 
• ADCY 6900 Ethical Issues in Cybersecurity 
• ADCY 6925 Cybersecurity: Risk & Resiliency
• ADCY 6955 Applied Research Project for Non-Profit Organizations 

Scheduling and Tuition

Program courses are available on campus during the evening, hybrid, and/or online. Students may take any combination of course delivery that works best for them.

Information about tuition rates for the 2024–2025 academic year is available on the Tuition and Fees page. Students are assessed a registration fee each semester they enroll in courses.

Master of Healthcare Administration (Online Only)

Program Description

The Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) program provides a comprehensive perspective of the health ecosystem by incorporating contemporary challenges and emerging trends from across healthcare related industries. The MHA program fosters academic growth, supports career development, and prepares graduates to drive organizational change across the rapidly transforming health ecosystem. 

The Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) is a twelve-course degree program for part-time and full-time students who are at various career stages. Most students choose to take one course every seven weeks (two courses per semester) and complete the program in two years. Some students elect to take more than one course every seven weeks to progress more quickly through the curriculum. The accelerated courses, which are offered in seven-week sessions, help students gain knowledge in core areas and those specific to other health ecosystem industries.

Students come from across the nation, and from a broad range of settings, including health systems management, insurance providers, as well as biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and medical device industries. The program also attracts new graduates, and others who aspire to pivot into healthcare related industries, along with individuals wanting to further develop and/or advance their careers.

With three starting points each year (August, January, and May), applications for admissions are accepted on a rolling basis. 

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college/university (minimum GPA 3.0)
• Official academic transcripts from colleges/universities where courses were completed
• Personal Statement
• Letter of Recommendation (Two)
• Resume 
• Application Fee

Note: Applicants whose undergraduate GPA is below 3.0 will be considered for admission. Such applications will be considered holistically, including letters of recommendation, personal statement, and professional experience. Recent college graduates with little to no professional experience must have a 3.0 GPA to be competitive for full acceptance.

International Students

Applicants requiring a university-sponsored student visa to enroll in this program are currently not eligible to apply. 

Degree Requirements

Twelve courses are required to complete the Master of Health Administration, nine core courses and three electives for a total of 43 to 46 credits.

Core Requirements (All Required, 34 Credits)

• ADHA7000 Introduction to Healthcare Systems and Organizations (4 credits)
• ADHA7010 Health Policy (4 credits)
• ADHA7015 Leadership in Healthcare (4 credits)
• ADHA7025 Current Issues in Health Economics (4 credits)
• ADHA7035 Healthcare Innovation-Based Strategy: Managing Change (2 credits)
• ADHA7040 Healthcare Quality Management (4 credits)
• ADHA7045 Health Analytics: Assessing & Critiquing Evidence & Decision-Making (4 credits)
• ADHA7050 Healthcare Information Technology (4 credits)
• ADHA7055 Strategic Planning and Marketing (4 credits)
  

Elective Requirements (three courses selected from the following, 9 to 12 Credits)

• ADHA7005 Management Theory and Organizational Behavior (4 credits)
• ADHA7020 Workforce Development (4 credits)
• ADHA7033 Health Ethics & Law (4 credits)
• ADHA7060 Project Management (3 credits)
• ADHA7065 Product Development and Marketing in the Digital Age (3 credits)
• ADHA7070 Medical Device Regulations (3 credits)
• ADHA7075 Drug Discovery and Product Regulations (3 credits)
• ADHA7101 Readings and Research (1-4 credits)

Scheduling and Tuition

Program courses are offered online asynchronously with an optional weekly discussion hour.

Information about tuition rates for the 2024–2025 academic year is available on the Tuition and Fees page. Students are assessed a registration fee each semester they enroll in courses.

Master of Science in Leadership (On Campus and Online)

Program Description

The M.S. in Leadership is designed to create the leaders the world needs now. It is based on Ignatian values that translate to leadership excellence. The degree program summarizes this philosophy of leadership excellence in three principles that inspire commitment to and capabilities for transforming one’s leadership: enriching one’s self; engaging all; and creating the future. 

The program’s learning outcomes include striving to serve a higher purpose; cultivating self-awareness and commitment to life-long learning and growth; demonstrating care and compassion for all; and thinking critically and comprehensively to formulate and resolve complex, ill-structured challenges and problems. 

The M.S. in Leadership consists of six core courses and four elective courses. For the elective options, students may select a concentration (4 courses) or four of the leadership elective courses.  

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college/university (minimum GPA 3.0)
• Official academic transcripts from colleges/universities where courses were completed
• Personal essay responding to three prompts
• Two Letters of Recommendation (minimum of one from a former professor)
• Resume
• Application Fee
• Optional—GRE (reporting code 7534) or GMAT (reporting code 44X-HX-47)— recommended for students with lower undergraduate GPA

Tracks

When applying to the MSL, applicants will have to select either the Leadership Track or the Executive Track. Admission to either of the two tracks is dependent on an applicant’s level of professional experience. 

Leadership Track: The Leadership Track is the pathway for applicants who are early in their careers. Applicants with less than 8 years of full-time work experience should apply for this track.

Executive Track: The Executive Track of the MS in Leadership is the pathway for applicants who have a minimum of 8 years of full-time work experience.  Successful applicants to the Executive Track not only have significant years of work experience, but also demonstrated leadership experience including managing people, processes, or projects.

International Students—Additional Admission Requirements

In addition to the general requirements listed above, international students have the following requirements:

• Interview (in person or online)
• TOEFL (minimum 90–100 range) (reporting code 3276) or IELTS (minimum 6.5–7.5 range) from within the past two years, unless they have completed their undergraduate degree at a regionally-accredited U.S. institution, or a foreign institution in which English is the medium of instruction.
• Detailed course-by-course transcript evaluation indicating conferral of an undergraduate degree that is equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (see transcript requirements for international students).
• Note, because of its online format, the executive track does not support F-1 visas.

Degree Requirements

Core Requirements 

Students will complete the core requirements for the track that they were admitted under—leadership or executive.

Leadership Core Requirement (All Required, 18 Credits)

• ADLP7000 Daring to Lead
• ADLP7001 Leadership Fundamentals: Articulating Your Leadership Vision and Values
• ADLP7002 The Self-Aware Leader 
• ADLP7003 Leading Change from the Middle 
• ADLP7004 Problem Solving Through Critical Thinking
• ADLP7005 Women and Men for Others

Executive Core Requirements (All Required, 18 Credits)

• ADLP7500 Leading Thinking 
• ADLP7501 Fostering Dignity and Belonging 
• ADLP7502 Emotional and Social Intelligence Deep Dive 
• ADLP7503 Leading Change and Execution 
• ADLP7504 Strategic Management of Innovation 
• ADLP7505 The Just Leader

Elective Requirements

Students choose 12 credits (4 courses) from the following leadership electives or concentrations below to complete their degree program. If a student wants to receive recognition for the completion of a concentration, then they would need to complete 12 credits (4 courses) from a concentration.

Leadership Electives

• ADLP8000 The Art and Science of Strategy 
• ADLP8001 Data Driven Decision Making 
• ADLP8100 Power, Influence, and Persuasion 
• ADLP8101 Flourishing through Inclusion 
• ADLP8102 Leading High Performing Teams 
• ADLP8201 GenAI for Business Leaders 
• ADLP9000 Internship 
• ADLP9902 Applied Leadership Project

Corporate Communications and Marketing Concentration

• ADLP8300 Strategies for Communications* 
• ADLP8301 Media Relations and Community Engagement 
• ADLP8302 Business & Marketing Analytics 
• ADLP8304 Social Media Influence and Content Creation 
• ADLP8305 Cross Cultural Communication 
• ADLP8306 Evolution of Marketing Strategies in the Digital Era 

* Required for the concentration

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Concentration

• ADLP8400 Fundamentals of DEI*
• ADLP8401 Building Inclusive Organizational Cultures 
• ADLP8402 Implementing Successful DEI Strategies 
• ADLP8403 Bias in the Workplace 
• ADLP8305 Cross Cultural Communication 

* Required for the concentration

Human Resources Management Concentration

• ADLP8500 Human Resource Development 
• ADLP8501 Talent Management* 
• ADLP8502 The Future of Work  
• ADLP8503 HR Analytics

* Required for the concentration

Project Management Concentration

• ADLP8600 Project Management*
• ADLP8601 Risk Management/Quality Management 
• ADLP8602 Stakeholder Management and Procurement 
• ADLP8603 Agile Methodologies 
• ADLP8604 Agile Product Ownership

* Required for the concentration

Scheduling and Tuition

Program courses are ordinarily scheduled starting in the late afternoons on weeknights. Courses meet face-to-face and most courses are offered online. All Executive Track core courses are offered online only. 

Information about tuition rates for the 2024–2025 academic year is available on the Tuition and Fees page. Students are assessed a registration fee each semester they enroll in courses.

Master of Science in Sports Administration (On Campus and Online)

Program Description

The mission of the Master of Science in Sports Administration (MSSA) program is to prepare graduate students with skill sets to become the next generation of ethical leaders, decision makers, educators, and managers in the sport industry. The Sport Administration program promotes the pursuit of excellence by providing: curricular and co-curricular educational experiences; faculty with extensive current real-world experience, and opportunities for student engagement and service learning in partnership with Boston College Athletics, regional colleges and universities as well as the Boston professional sport teams. 

The Master of Science in Sports Administration program provides opportunities and experiences for students to achieve the following outcomes:

• Apply knowledge and skills to develop best-practice approaches within sports administration
• Apply knowledge gained from coursework to sports administrative experiences
• Demonstrate problem-solving, communication and critical thinking skills reflective of humanistic, Catholic, and Ignatian ideals about personal and social issues within sports-related organizations
• Formulate career opportunities through professional development, networking, and career coaching

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college/university (minimum GPA 3.0)
• Official academic transcripts from colleges/universities where courses were completed
• Personal Statement
• Letter of Recommendation (Two) (one must be from a professor or an academic advisor)
• Resume
• Application Fee
• Optional—GRE (reporting code 7534) or GMAT (reporting code 44X-HX-47)— recommended for students with lower undergraduate GPA

International Students—Additional Admission Requirements

In addition to the general requirements listed above, international students have the following requirements:

• Interview (in person or online)
• TOEFL (minimum 90–100 range) (reporting code 3276) or IELTS (minimum 6.5–7.5 range) from within the past two years, unless they have completed their undergraduate degree at a regionally-accredited U.S. institution, or a foreign institution in which English is the medium of instruction.
• Detailed course-by-course transcript evaluation indicating conferral of an undergraduate degree that is equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (see transcript requirements for international students).

Course Offerings

Core Requirements (All Required, 15 Credits)

• ADSA7501 Survey of Sports Administration
• ADSA7502 Sports Marketing and Communication
• ADSA7503 Sports Finance
• ADSA7504 Sports Law and Compliance
• ADSA7585 Sports Leadership & Ignatian-based Ethics

Select one of the following: 

• ADSA9001 Sports Administration Internship
• ADSA9902 Applied Sports Administration Project

Elective Requirements (Selected from the Following, 12 Credits)

• ADSA7506 Athlete Entrepreneurship: Exploring Opportunities Created by NIL
• ADSA8002 Issues and Challenges Affecting the Student-Athlete
• ADSA8004 Diversity and Inclusion in Sports
• ADSA8005 Health & Wellness in Athletics & Sports Admin
• ADSA8007 Revenue Generation in Sports
• ADSA8008 Sport Psychology
• ADSA8010 Coaching for Performance & Student Athlete Development
• ADSA8012 Sports Media and Public Affairs
• ADSA8015 Sports Analytics
• ADSA8018 The Athletic Director
• ADSA8020 Operations and Event Management
• ADSA8025 Sport Security and Event Management
• ADSA8030 The Business of the NFL
• ADSA9101 Executive Sports Leadership Seminar* 
• ADSA9102 Applied Sports Administration Project* 
• ADLP7003 Leading Change from the Middle* 
• ADLP8102 Leading High Performing Teams*

*Permission of the MSSA Program Director is required to register. At the discretion of the MSSA Graduate Program Director, course may be used as a substitute for a core requirement. 

Scheduling and Tuition

Program courses are ordinarily scheduled, meeting one time per week starting in the evenings on weeknights. Courses meet face-to-face, hybrid, and online. Students can complete the program in either modality or combine classes according to their schedule.

Information about tuition rates for the 2024–2025 academic year is available on the Tuition and Fees page. Students are assessed a registration fee each semester they enroll in courses.

Dual Master of Science in Applied Economics and Cybersecurity Policy and Governance (On Campus and Online)

Program Description

To prepare students to work in the emerging field of Cybersecurity Policy, and to understand the data analytic component of the Applied Economics field, the Woods College offers a dual degree program in Applied Economics and Cybersecurity Policy & Governance.

Application Requirements

Applicants should apply to each program separately and must be independently admitted into both programs. Applicants must satisfy all requirements for admission for both programs, including necessary background courses. Students must also provide required standardized tests for the MSAE program. Additionally, the MSCY program does not accept international applicants.

Course Offerings

MSAE Core Requirements (All Required, 12 Credits)

• ADEC7200 Applied Macroeconomic Theory
• ADEC7201 Applied Microeconomic Theory
• ADEC7301 Data Analysis
• ADEC7320 Econometrics

MSCY Core Requirements (All Required, 18 Credits)

• ADCY6000 Cyber Ecosystem and Cybersecurity
• ADCY6050 Cybersecurity Policy: Privacy and Legal Requirements
• ADCY6300 Network and Infrastructure Security
• ADCY6350 Incident Response and Management
• ADCY6500 Organizational Effectiveness: Governance, Risk Management, and Compliancy

Ethics Requirements (Choose One, 3 Credits)

• ADEC7500 Ethics, Economics, and Public Policy
• ADCY6900 Ethical Issues in Cybersecurity and the Ignatian Paradigm

Applied Research Project Requirements (3 Credits)

• Applied Research Project would combine topics in Cybersecurity and Economics.
  

Electives Requirements (Select Two Courses from MSAE and Two Courses from MSCY, 12 Credits)

• Confirm selections with MSAE and MSCY Graduate Program Directors.

Dual Master of Science in Applied Economics and Applied Analytics (On Campus and Online)

Program Description

To prepare students to work in the field of Analytics and to understand the data analytic component of the Applied Economics field, the Woods College offers a dual degree program in Applied Economics and Applied Analytics.

Application Requirements

Applicants should apply to each program separately and must be independently admitted into both programs. Applicants must satisfy all requirements for admission for both programs, including necessary background courses. Students must also provide required standardized tests for the MSAE and MSAA programs.

Course Offerings

Core Requirements (All Required, 15 Credits*)

• ADAN7220 Mathematical Methods for Machine Learning I
• ADEC7301 Data Analysis
• ADEC7320 Econometrics
• ADAN/ADEC7430 AI Algorithms I / Big Data Econometrics
• ADEC7460 Predictive Analytics/Forecasting
  

*Students who have taken Calculus II and Linear Algebra in their undergraduate studies can obtain Course Equivalence for ADAN 7220. Students who have completed advanced Statistics courses such as Econometrics in their undergraduate studies can obtain course equivalence for ADAN/ADEC 7310. Course Equivalence does not result in reduction of required credits, but allows students to enroll in electives instead of fundamental courses.

MSAE Core Requirements (All Required, 6 Credits)

• ADEC7200 Applied Macroeconomic Theory
• ADEC7201 Applied Microeconomic Theory

MSAA Core Requirements (All Required, 6 Credits)

• ADAN7905 AI/ML Software Tools and Platforms
• ADAN7603 AI Algorithms II

Ethics Requirements (Choose One, 3 Credits)

• ADEC7500 Ethics, Economics, and Public Policy
• ADAN7500 Algorithmic Ethics and Governance—from Traditional to AI/ML

Applied Research Project Requirements (3 Credits)

• Applied Research Project would combine topics in Analytics and Economics.

Electives Requirements (Select Two Courses from MSAE and Two Courses from MSAA, 12 Credits)

• Confirm elective selections with Graduate Program Director.

Graduate Certificates

The Graduate Programs at Woods College of Advancing Studies offer several graduate certificates. Each certificate requires the completion of several courses that build students’ knowledge and skills that are aligned with industry needs.

Prospective students may apply for a certificate program without becoming a Masters’ program student. Students who are or will be enrolled in one of the Masters’ degrees, may only take a graduate certificate if the certificate is fully outside their degree program. 

A certificate may be completed at the same time as a degree program only if the certificate and degree program are independent of one another. Once a student is enrolled in a graduate degree program, the certificate, if within the same program, will become a concentration. Students may complete only one concentration in a degree program. 

If a student completes a graduate certificate and within 5 years enters a degree program, the graduate certificate may be applied toward the degree program, if those courses are determined to be the equivalent of courses required for the degree. 

For more information about the graduate certificates please contact the respective Graduate Program Directors or Graduate Student Advisors.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college/university (minimum GPA 3.0)
• Official academic transcripts from colleges/universities where courses were completed
• Personal Statement
• Letter of Recommendation (One)
• Resume
• Application Fee

Note: Applicants whose undergraduate GPA is below 3.0 will be considered for admission. Such applications will be considered holistically, including letter of reference, personal statement, and industry experience. For particular applicants, they may take a course within the certificate program as “non-degree student” and, if they pass the course with a B or better, their application to the certificate program may be reconsidered.

International Students

Applicants requiring a student Visa to enroll in the graduate certificate programs are currently not eligible to apply for the graduate certificate. For international students who do not need a student Visa, they may be considered for all the graduate certificates except for the Cybersecurity Graduate Certificates.

Graduate Certificate Completion Requirements

• Students must receive at least a grade of C for each course credited toward the certificate.
• Students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 to receive a certificate of completion.
• Certificate requirements should be completed within two years of initial enrollment.

Data Analytics Graduate Certificate (On Campus and Online)

Offered by the M.S. in Applied Economics Program

Offered by the M.S. in Applied Economics Program—All four courses are offered in 7-week terms and can be completed in 8 months. The courses are for-credit and can be transferred into the Boston College Master of Science in Applied Economics degree program. Students enrolling in this graduate certificate must have completed a college-level statistics course.

Graduate Certificate in Data Analytics

Requirements (All Required, 12 Credits)

• ADEC7301 Data Analysis
• ADEC7320 Econometrics
• ADEC7430 Big Data Econometrics
• ADEC7406 Predictive Analytics/Forecasting

Cybersecurity Graduate Certificates [On Campus & select courses Online]

Offered by the M.S. in Cybersecurity Policy and Governance Program—The courses are for-credit and can be transferred into the Boston College Master of Science in Cybersecurity Policy and Governance degree program.

Graduate Certificate in Computer Security

Core Requirements (All Required, 6 Credits)

• ADCY6000 Cyber Ecosystem and Cybersecurity
• ADCY6300 Network and Infrastructure Security (Prereq: ADCY 6000)

Elective Requirements (2 courses selected from the following, 6 Credits)

• ADCY6450 Cyber Investigations & Digital Forensics
• ADCY6475 Security in the Cloud
• ADCY6810 Cybersecurity: Designing Offensive/Defensive Capabilities (Prereq: ADCY6000)
• ADCY6820 Cybersecurity Engineering
• ADCY6830 Applied Cryptography
• ADCY6840 Machine Learning & Data Analytics
• ADCY6925 Cybersecurity: Risk Management & Resiliency

Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Analytics

Core Requirements (All Required, 12 Credits)

• ADCY6050 Cybersecurity Policy: Legal Requirements & Privacy
• ADCY6350 Incident Response & Management
• ADEC7301 Data Analysis
• ADEC7340 Big Data Econometrics

Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Risk Management & Strategy

Core Requirements (All Required, 6 Credits)

• ADCY6050 Cybersecurity Policy: Privacy and Legal Requirements
• ADCY6350 Incident Response and Management

Elective Requirements (2 courses selected from the following, 6 Credits)

• ADCY6400 Managing Cyber Risk: Mobile Devices & Social Networking
• ADCY6475 Security in the Cloud
• ADCY6450 Cyber Investigations & Digital Forensics
• ADCY6600 Establishing the Business Case & Resource Allocation
• ADCY6640 National Security: Law, Policy & Investigations
• ADCY6925 Cybersecurity: Risk Management & Resiliency

Graduate Certificate in National Security & Global Affairs

Core Requirements (All Required, 6 Credits)

• ADCY6200 International Cybersecurity
• ADCY6650 Role of Intelligence: Enabling Proactive Security

Elective Requirements (2 courses selected from the following, 6 Credits)

• ADCY6050 Cybersecurity Policy: Privacy and Legal Requirements
• ADCY6450 Cyber Investigations & Digital Forensics
• ADCY6620 National Security: Corporate Law & Policy
• ADCY6630 Counterintelligence: Methods and Process
• ADCY6640 National Security: Law, Policy & Investigations

Leadership Graduate Certificates (On Campus and Online)

Offered by the M.S. in Leadership Program

The courses are for-credit and can be transferred into the Boston College Master of Science in Leadership degree program.

Graduate Certificate in Corporate Communications and Marketing

Core Requirement (3 Credits)

• ADLP8300 Strategies for Communications 
  

Elective Requirements (3 courses selected from the following, 9 Credits) 

• ADLP8301 Media Relations and Community Management 
• ADLP8302 Business & Marketing Analytics 
• ADLP8304 Social Influence and Content Creation 
• ADLP8305 Cross Cultural Communication 
• ADLP8306 Evolution of Marketing Strategies in the Digital Era

Graduate Certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion 

Core Requirement (3 Credits)

• ADLP8400 Fundamentals of DEI

Elective Requirements (3 courses selected from the following, 9 credits):

• ADLP8401 Building Inclusive Organizational Cultures 
• ADLP8402 Implementing Successful DEI Strategies 
• ADLP8403 Bias in the Workplace 
• ADLP8305 Cross Cultural Communication

Graduate Certificate in Leadership 

Requirements (4 courses selected from the following, 12 credits)

• ADLP7000 Daring to Lead  
• ADLP7002 The Self-Aware Leader 
• ADLP7003 Leading Change from the Middle 
• ADLP7004 Problem Solving through Critical Thinking 
• ADLP8102 Leading High Performing Teams

Graduate Certificate in Human Resources

Requirements (All Required, 12 Credits)

• ADLP8500 Human Resource Development 
• ADLP8501 Talent Management 
• ADLP8502 The Future of Work 
• ADLP8503 HR Analytics

Graduate Certificate in Project Management

Core Requirement (3 Credits)

• ADLP8600 Project Management 

• ADLP8601 Risk Management/Quality Management 
• ADLP8602 Stakeholder Management and Procurement 
• ADLP8603 Agile Methodologies 
• ADLP8604 Agile Product Ownership

Graduate Certificate in Management and Organizational Excellence

Requirements (4 courses selected from the following):

• ADLP8000 The Art and Science of Strategy
• ADLP8100 Power, Influence, and Persuasion
• ADLP8101 Flourishing Through Inclusion
• ALDP8102 Leading High Performing Teams
• ALDP8201 AI for Leaders

Sports Management Graduate Certificates (Online and Select Courses on Campus)

Offered by the M.S. in Sports Administration Program

The courses are for-credit and can be transferred into the Boston College Master of Science in Sports Administration degree program.

Graduate Certificate in Executive Sports Leadership

Executive Sports Requirements (All Required, 6 Credits)

• ADSA9101 Executive Sports Leadership Seminar
• ADSA9102 Applied Goal Achievement

Leadership Requirement (1 course selected from the following, 3 Credits)

• ADLP7003 Leading Change from the Middle
• ADSA7585 Sports Leadership and Ignatian Based Ethics

Elective Requirements (One course required, 3 Credits)

Confirm elective selections with the Graduate Program Director.

Graduate Certificate in Sports Analytics

Core Requirements (All Required, 9 Credits)

• ADEC7310 Data Analysis
• ADEC7320 Econometrics
• ADSA8015 Sports Analytics

Elective Requirements (One Required, 3 Credits)

• ADSA7501 Introduction to Sports Management
• ADSA7502 Sports Marketing and Communication
• ADSA7503 Sports Finance

Graduate Certificate in Student-Athlete Development

Core Requirements (All Required, 9 Credits)

• ADSA8002 Issues and Challenges Affecting the Student-Athlete
  
• ADSA8004 Diversity and Inclusion in Sports
• ADSA8008 Sport Psychology
  

Elective Requirements (One Required, 3 Credits)

• ADSA7504 Sports Law and Compliance
  
• ADSA7506 Athlete Entrepreneurship: Opportunities Created by Name, Image, and Likeness
• ADSA8005 Health and Wellness in Athletics and Sports Management

Non-Degree Students

Non-degree students are individuals interested in taking graduate courses for academic credit but not in applying for a degree. A brief non-degree application form must be completed and submitted online. Non-degree students may enroll in Fall, Spring, or Summer semesters. Most graduate courses are only available to non-degree students with approval from the respective Graduate Program Director.