Diversity admissions
Committed to the pursuit of a fully inclusive community, the data science program embraces the University of Minnesota’s position that promoting and supporting diversity among the student body, faculty and staff is central to the academic mission of the University.
We define “diversity” in the broadest sense of the word. Our university community is strengthened by our students representing different races, religions, ethnicities, economic backgrounds, geographic origins, genders, sexualities, and beliefs. We recognize and respect that a diverse community promotes equity through respect for, and opportunities to learn from, people with a broad range of backgrounds and experiences.
The department works closely with The Graduate School Diversity Office (GSDO) and other units connected to diversity and multiculturalism. GSDO coordinates and leads the University’s initiatives in the recruitment, funding, retention, and graduation of a diverse graduate and professional student body.
Programs and resources
Community Scholars Program
The Community of Scholars Program (COSP) works towards creating an institutional environment that supports the academic and professional success of graduate students who are under-represented in academia. COSP assists students (US citizens and permanent residents) to more fully participate in the University; develop supportive relationships with advisors and mentors; build a sense of community through academic seminars and professional development workshops; and connect students to the Twin Cities and broader U of MN system through teaching, research and community engagement opportunities.
Directory of Twin Cities Multicultural Resources and Services
This directory was developed by the University of Minnesota Graduate School Diversity Office as a courtesy to inform University students, staff and faculty about resources and services within the Twin Cities area. The directory can be viewed by major category or the primary community served. The University of Minnesota does not endorse any of the resources or services listed in the directory that are external to the University.
The Gender and Sexuality Center for Queer and Trans Life
The Gender and Sexuality Center for Queer and Trans Life is dedicated to transforming campus climate for University of Minnesota students, staff, faculty, alumni, and community members by developing and supporting more inclusive understandings of gender and sexuality through education, advocacy, outreach, and support.
The Multicultural Center for Academic Excellence
The Multicultural Center for Academic Excellence (MCAE) is a campus-wide resource promoting an inclusive atmosphere on campus. MCAE’s programs are designed to create powerful, caring connections among all members of the University of Minnesota community.
Financial Resources
The University of Minnesota and data science program encourage a diverse representation of perspectives and provides specific funding opportunities for underrepresented groups. Our students have received many competitive university and national fellowships. Students are encouraged to apply to internal fellowships like the ones listed below.
Diversity of Views and Experiences Fellowships
The Diversity of Views and Experiences Fellowship (DOVE) helps graduate programs promote the diversity of views, experiences, and ideas in the pursuit of research, scholarship and creative excellence. This diversity is promoted through the recruitment and support of academically excellent students (U.S. citizens and U.S. permanent residents only) with diverse ethnic, racial, economic, and educational backgrounds and experiences. The award includes a stipend for the academic year, plus tuition and subsidized health insurance. Prospective students are nominated by their chosen major department to compete in a University-wide competition.
McNair Scholars
The McNair Scholars program, named in honor of Dr. Ronald E. McNair, one of the astronauts who perished with the Challenger mission, is a federal TRIO program that assists eligible first-generation undergraduate students from low-income families to prepare for and enter graduate and Ph.D. programs. Participants of the McNair Scholars program include academically talented, low-income, first-generation students, and students from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in graduate programs.
GEM Fellows
GEM is a network of leading corporations, government laboratories, top universities, and top research institutions that enables qualified students from underrepresented communities to pursue graduate education in applied science and engineering.