Applied Data Institute
Overview
Launching Data Science and AI Leaders for Social Impact
At the Equitech Applied Data Institute, we empower recent graduates and young professionals to become the next generation of data-savvy leaders in their respective domains. Our research-based curriculum, anchored in small-group learning and led by world-class faculty, provides a practical understanding of applied data science and AI across various domains. How will AI transform law, medicine, and art? How can modern data science tools be used in academic research? The Applied Data Institute will provide the tools, networks, and perspectives you need to thrive in the 21st-century workforce.
Why join
this program ?
Build Scalable Foundations
Data science tools are often taught as a laundry list of disjointed tools – an approach that fails to build a coherent understanding required to interrogate data in ever-evolving contexts. The ADI will focus on building scalable and robust foundations by digging deep into the roots of the discipline: data collection, measurement, and statistics.
Build Critical Intuition
Tackling complex real-world problems requires a mindset of asking salient questions, experimentation, and a rigorous analytical approach. Through discussion-based classes and the capstone projects, the ADI aims to cultivate a culture of learning like scientists.
Build Effective Solutions
Modern AI applications require dealing with messy and incomplete data. The ADI teaches a data-centric approach to build AI applications in new domains. Learners will critically investigate data collection, data quality, and the biases that might result from bad data.
“Equitech Futures' Applied Data Institute brought me together with exceptionally motivated, thoughtful, and talented people from all over the world. Everything I am doing in the data science field right now is because of the introduction I got from Equitech Futures. I wasn’t sure if I could even get in, but they had confidence in me, and they were the first ones who gave me a chance to learn something in AI.”
—
Seba Nazary, Germany
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What’s inside
The Curriculum
Modern data science is best learned by doing. While a number of bootcamps and data science courses focus on specific tools (for example, mastering specific packages in Python), we take a different approach. The Applied Data Institute teaches you how to "think like a data scientist" via hands-on projects and "idea labs" that encourage you to explore topics deeply. You will also cultivate the essential skill of "learning to learn" which will equip you to tackle present and future challenges.
What you’ll learn
Foundations of Data Science
Applied Artificial Intelligence
Speaking Lab
Writing Lab
Thinking Like an Entrepreneur
Capstone Projects
“Being a part of the Applied Data Institute was one of the most remarkable learning experiences in my life. The community was very supportive, the program intense, and the knowledge transfer was timeless. Additionally, weekly seminars with industry practitioners put all the learnings in perspective from a practical sense. If you would like to advance ideas at the frontiers of science, technology, and societal challenges, this is the place for you.”
—
Mitchell Odhiambo, Kenya
Who is the
program for?
The ideal candidate for the Applied Data Institute is a recent college graduate with technical skills looking to cultivate their skills in the context of data science and AI. We do not consider GPAs or grades in the application process, but we require fluency in programming and mathematical reasoning. We are looking for people who are curious, analytical, persistent, and open-minded when confronted with challenging problems.
A technical screening will examine candidates for fluency in Python programming (including NumPy, Pandas, & matplotlib) and mathematical reasoning (e.g. algebra, calculus).
Eligibility Criteria
Three criteria for eligibility are:
→ Applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree.
→ Applicants must be fluent in Python programming (including NumPy, Pandas, & matplotlib) and be comfortable with algebra and single-variable calculus.
→ Available to commit 20-25 hours per week over 10 weeks of instruction.
We welcome applicants from all professional, geographic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds. We particularly encourage women and individuals from underrepresented groups to apply for the Applied Data Institute.
Selection Process
→ Technical Screening will open June 14, 2024.
→ Qualifying semifinalists will be invited to submit a written application by August 16, 2024.
→ Faculty Interviews will be scheduled with finalists the week of September 2, 2024.
→ Admission decisions will be communicated by September 13, 2024.
→ You can find a detailed overview of the Application Process here.
Faculty
Our faculty are leaders in their respective fields, comprising domain expertise in data science, programming, artificial intelligence, public policy, oral communication, and writing. Most of all, they are jointly committed to the craft of teaching. Our courses are designed for small cohorts of 25 students or fewer, ensuring that you will have bountiful opportunities to connect with our accomplished faculty in class and in individualized coachings.
“Being a part of the Equitech Futures community has given me the opportunity to work with people around the world. After the Applied Data Institute, I joined with a fellow alumnus from Kenya to pitch a new venture. It is a truly global experience.”
—
Raunaq Jain, India
Community
Creating a Lifelong Community of Ambitious Minds
At the conclusion of each program term, graduates are entitled to a Certificate of Completion and are welcomed to join the Equitech Alumni Network. This cross-cohort community of talented young innovators share opportunities, collaborate on shared research, and inspire one another. A few of the privileges of alumni status include:
Capstone Projects
Over the 10 weeks of the ADI, you will build your skills toward the completion of projects that showcase your programming, data analysis, writing, and speaking skills. We provide certificates of completion to all graduating students. Graduates may also request personalized letters of recommendation from the faculty which attest to the quality of work completed during the ADI.
Access to a Lively, Tight-Knit Network
Alumni from the Applied Data Institute are invited to monthly Leadership Labs with leading practitioners in tech and academia where open dialogue is encouraged. The network also supports career preparedness with masterclasses, research sounding boards, and mentorship opportunities.
Continued Career Support
You will be a part of the Equitech Futures network even after the 10 weeks are over. You will receive specialized career development guidance through workshops, access to a mentor network, and personalized support on career planning. We are particularly supportive of students who want to take riskier career paths that have the potential to make a great social impact in the future.
Tuition and Financial Aid
With generous support from our philanthropic partners, we are providing full tuition waivers for each student admitted to the ADI.
Tuition for the Applied Data Institute is US $9500 and includes:
- Ten weeks of instruction
- Career support for participants throughout 2024-2025
- Access to ongoing Equitech Alumni Network programming
“As a woman from Nigeria, the scholarship offered by Equitech Futures helped me attend their program and explore the application of data science and AI to tackle societal challenges. Without this support, I would not have been able to launch my career in data science.”
—
Gift Wilfred Enang, Nigeria
Frequently Asked Questions
Remind meWho should apply?
I am currently enrolled in an academic program. Can I still apply for the ADI?
I completed my bachelor’s xyz years ago. May I still apply?
I have just started learning Python. Should I apply?
I've done online learning before. How is this program different?
What is the format of classes?
I had a low GPA during my bachelors program. Is there a minimum grade requirement?
How much does the Applied Data Institute cost?
I am a citizen of xyz country, residing in abc country. Can I still apply?
How many students does each course have?
Will I receive a certificate for completing the course?
What technology platforms are used?
What happens if I begin but cannot complete the course?
How do we all meet across different time zones at the same time?
What are the requirements for completing the course?
Remind me
to apply
