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Ph.D. in Data Science

Flexible STEM Learning for Career Success

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The fast-changing world of artificial intelligence needs trained, innovative leaders to help integrate this essential technology into businesses and organizations. SBU's PhD in Technology in Data Science prepares you to not just be an indispensable contributor in your field, but you'll also be prepared for your career to go to the next level.

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SBU's PhD programs have these distinctive components:

    • STEM-designated doctoral program
    • Potential Day 1 Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
    • Seamless pathway from SBU master’s programs
    • Up to 36 months OPT including STEM OPT extensions
    • Dedicated DSO support for F-1 visa compliance
    • Cohort-based dissertation mentorship model
    • Flexible hybrid format with online coursework + weekend residencies
    • Three on-campus residency weekends per year
    • Christian worldview integrated across all coursework

Note: This program is pending approval from the Higher Learning Commission. Applications are being accepted, but students may not enroll until approval is received.

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100% Accredited

Southwest Baptist University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Hybrid Format

Our hybrid PhD programs include weekend residency sessions three times per year, combined with asynchronous online coursework and live virtual sessions. This format is ideal for working professionals and F-1 international students with CPT/OPT components to their degree. 

Program Details

60
Credit Hours
STEM
Designated
3-5 Years
Completion

Courses and Structure

Total Units: 60 hours 
Duration: 3-5 years
Delivery method: Hybrid: Online + Weekend Residencies (3x/year) 
Calendar: Semester (Fall, Spring, Summer) 
Start Date: Fall 2026
Transfer Credits: Up to 12 credits from another doctoral program 

Research Methods Core | 12 Credits | Required for All PhD Programs 

  • CIS Foundations of Professional and Academic Writing | 3 cr 
  • CIS Introduction to Research Design | 3 cr 
  • CIS Advanced Research Methods | 3 cr 
  • CIS Statistical Methods for Applied Research | 3 cr 

Core CIS Courses | 15 Credits | Required for All PhD Programs 

  • CIS Applied AI for Problem Solving in Organizations | 3 cr 
  • CIS Applied Data Science for Strategic Decision-Making | 3 cr 
  • CIS Security Risk Management for Executives | 3 cr 
  • CIS Strategic Innovation Leadership and Strategy | 3 cr 
  • CIS IT Governance, Ethics, and Policy Implementation | 3 cr 

Dissertation Sequence | 18 Credits + Milestones | Required for All PhD Programs 

  • CIS Literature Review to Solve a Problem | 3 cr (Dissertation 1) 
  • CIS Applied Research Methods | 3 cr (Dissertation 2) 
  • CIS Proposal Defense | 0 cr (Milestone, course fee required) 
  • CIS Data Collection and Analysis I | 6 cr (Dissertation 3) 
  • CIS Research Reporting and Writing | 6 cr (Dissertation 4) 
  • CIS Dissertation Final Defense | 0 cr (Milestone, course fee required)

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Total Estimated Costs

PhD 60-credit programs

With Scholarship: $38,600 

Without Scholarship: $49,100 

TUITION & Fees for Fall 2026, Spring 2027

Compare
Tuition Plans		 With Scholarship Without Scholarship
Tuition per credit $575 $750
Technology Fee Per Credit $30 $30
Textbook Fee Per Credit $30 $30
CPT Fee $0 $0
Dissertation Course Fee $500 $500
Total Program Estimated Cost: $38,600 $49,100

*International students accepted into a PhD STEM program are eligible to receive a scholarship. .

 

Admissions Requirements

General Requirements 

  • Qualifying master’s degree from an accredited institution (domestic or international) 
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 
  • Up to 12 credits may transfer from another doctoral program 

International Student (F-1) Requirements 

  • Valid F-1 visa status or ability to obtain F-1 status 
  • Official transcripts evaluated by a NACES-approved credential evaluation service 
  • Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or equivalent) 
  • Financial documentation demonstrating ability to cover program costs 
  • Completed application and documentation for I-20 issuance 

F-1 Student Benefits (Callout Box) 

SBU is SEVP-certified with a dedicated DSO team. Our STEM-designated PhD programs qualify for CPT during enrollment and up to 36 months OPT (including STEM OPT extension) after graduation. The doctoral credential also strengthens H-1B, EB-1, and O-1A visa pathways. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the PhD in Artificial Intelligence? 
A STEM-designated doctoral program at SBU that prepares scholars and practitioner-leaders to conduct rigorous, ethical research grounded in a Christian worldview, culminating in an original dissertation. 
How long does the program take to complete?
Full-time: 3–4 years. Part-time: 5–6 years depending on pace and dissertation progress. 
Is this program available online?
Hybrid format: asynchronous online coursework + live virtual sessions + three on-campus weekend residencies per year in Springfield, MO. 
Is this program STEM designated?
Yes. This program carries a STEM CIP code, qualifying graduates for the 24-month STEM OPT extension (up to 36 months total post-graduation work authorization). 
Does SBU support F-1 international students?
Yes. SBU is SEVP-certified with a dedicated DSO team. Full support for I-20 issuance, SEVIS compliance, CPT during enrollment, and OPT/STEM OPT after graduation. 
How much does the program cost?
Estimated $38,100 with scholarship (60 credits at $575/credit + $30 tech fee + $30 textbook fee per credit), plus $500 per dissertation course. Without scholarship: $48,600 plus dissertation fees. 
What is the residency requirement?
Three weekend residency sessions per year (one per semester), held on the Springfield campus. Each is a Saturday–Sunday intensive for dissertation workshops, faculty mentorship, and peer engagement. 
Can I work while enrolled?
Yes. The hybrid format is designed for working professionals. F-1 students are eligible for CPT allowing employment in their field during enrollment. 
Is the program accredited?
SBU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). PhD programs are currently undergoing HLC substantive change approval for a Fall 2026 launch. 

Faculty

Program Director 

Kenneth George, PhD — Professor of Finance and Data Science, Senior Director of Graduate Technology 

Faculty 

  • Jim Cain, PhD in Computer Science, CISSP 
  • Amos Gichamba, PhD in Information Systems 
  • Jeff Kimball, PhD in Computing Technology in Education 
  • Baochuan Lu, PhD in Computer Engineering 
  • Tim DeClue, PhD in Curriculum and Instruction 
  • Stephen Bowling, PhD in Mathematics 

Other Contacts

Levi Fox — DSO | lfox@sbuniv.edu 

Michelle Driscoll — PDSO | michelle.driscoll@sbuniv.edu

Learn More About Admissions to the Programs

Admissions Information

International Students

This program is designed to accommodate international students studying abroad, studying in the U.S. on an F-1 visa, and looking to earn OPT/CPT work opportunities. International students interested in learning more about admissions can contact Kenny George, Professor of Business.

U.S. Students

Domestic students wishing to study online through the SBU Worldwide campus, contact Ashton Rogers at (417) 327-5556 or arogers@sbuniv.edu.

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SBU Worldwide Campus

The SBU Worldwide Campus makes it possible for those who have work, family, or military obligations, or seek flexible learning options, to pursue educational programs from wherever you are.  

Upcoming SBU Worldwide Start Dates

May 11, 2026

Apply by:
May 4, 2026

June 8, 2026

Apply by:
June 1, 2026

August 17, 2026

Apply by:
August 10, 2026

Worldwide Campus Information