Analytics + Data Science Admissions Process at NSS

Mar 7, 2023
Jessica Grande

Interested in applying for an Analytics or Data Science bootcamp at Nashville Software School (NSS) and wondering, ‘What happens after I apply?’ At NSS, we are committed to providing high-quality education and helping students achieve their career goals in data analytics or data science. Our admissions process is designed to ensure that students who enroll at NSS have the best chance of success. 

Let’s walk through what you can expect from the admissions timeline and what we look for in applicants for our Analytics + Data Science Bootcamps!

Step 1: Application

Once you have decided which program you are interested in, you can complete the online application. This is the first opportunity for us to get to know you. Dedicate time to really think through the questions and give us specific examples and details in the answers you provide. We want to know about the journey that led you to want to pursue a career in data analytics or data science. 

Step 2: Interview 

Once your application is submitted, you will be contacted by a member of our student services team to schedule an interview with one or two NSS staff members. The interview lasts about an hour and is conducted via Zoom video call. Soon after choosing a time for your interview, you will receive an invitation with a private Zoom link. This is a chance for you to discuss your career goals, your background, and your plans for the future. We also encourage you to bring your questions about NSS and "interview" us as well!

What do we look for?

The admissions committee is looking for three key indicators to determine your readiness for an intensive and immersive learning experience such as our Analytics + Data Science Bootcamps.

Aptitude

As a student, we are looking for evidence that you have the aptitude for the skills that we're teaching at the school. That doesn't mean that you have written code before or that you have an analytics background, as we are a place for beginners! With this qualifier, we are looking for clues that will tell us you’re ready to put in the work to gain these new skills in a bootcamp. 

Motivation

We are also interested in why you want to attend this particular bootcamp, what you hope to gain from the experience, and why this feels like the next choice for you in your career. We have applicants from many backgrounds who wish to attend a bootcamp at NSS for myriad reasons, each unique and personal to the applicant. So this is always a good question to ask yourself and reflect on, too! What is your motivation? 

Preparation

Our admissions committee will also consider if you have done anything to explore whether you will like working with data. Have you done any online tutorials? Also, what have you envisioned for yourself upon graduation? Again, it’s okay if you don’t have any experience with data before applying for a bootcamp, but having done some research before your interview will help showcase you are prepared to put in the time and effort to learn this skill. 

Statistics Background (Data Science Only)

Ideal applicants to our Data Science Bootcamp will have experience in quantitative science or programming. Students will be expected to demonstrate prior training in and/or experience applying the math skills relevant to data science. In particular, we will be looking for students with training in statistics/probability. This prior knowledge can be gained through classes, research project experience, work experience, and/or our Statistics For Data Science class.

Step 3: Offer Letter

Admissions offers are made on a rolling basis, meaning we typically schedule interviews and send admissions offers to applicants in the order they are received. Our goal is always to have the class filled no later than 4 weeks before class starts so accepted students have time to complete their required pre-work before the start of the class.

Will I get into the Bootcamp I apply for if offers are on a rolling basis?

We typically have two or more applicants per seat, so not everyone is able to get into their first choice bootcamp, but we try to accommodate applicant schedule issues/priorities. If we can’t get you into your first choice, we will work with you on future options! 

Making the decision to gain skills to pursue a new career in data analytics or data science can be daunting at times. If you have questions regarding our bootcamps, admissions process, or tuition, consider attending one of our info sessions. Info sessions occur monthly and give you a chance to learn more about Nashville Software School and our Analytics + Data Science programs. You will also hear from our data programs manager and some of our data instructors as well as have a chance to ask your own questions. RSVP on Eventbrite

Ready to apply? Check out our upcoming Analytics + Data Science Bootcamps here!

Topics: Analytics + Data Science