Executive Data Science Capstone Course Syllabus

Overview: This capstone course provides a practical simulation of leading a data science project from inception to completion. Over four weeks, learners will step into the role of a data science executive, managing a virtual team and making strategic decisions to align data initiatives with business goals. The course emphasizes leadership, communication, and project management, culminating in a final presentation. Designed for working professionals, it requires a time commitment of approximately 2-3 hours per week, with flexible scheduling.

Module 1: Capstone Project Overview

Estimated time: 3 hours

• Understand the capstone structure and learning objectives
• Review the virtual business case simulation
• Familiarize with evaluation criteria and deliverables
• Set expectations for team leadership in a simulated environment

Module 2: Team Simulation & Decision-Making

Estimated time: 5 hours

• Assume the role of project leader in a simulated data science team
• Make executive decisions impacting project timeline and budget
• Navigate trade-offs between technical progress and business constraints
• Respond to unexpected challenges in project execution

Module 3: Business Value & Communication

Estimated time: 4 hours

• Align data science outcomes with stakeholder objectives
• Practice translating technical findings for non-technical audiences
• Develop communication strategies for executive reporting

Module 4: Final Presentation Submission

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Compile project insights into a cohesive final presentation
• Create a video or slide deck summarizing key decisions and outcomes
• Submit for peer review and feedback

Module 5: Peer Review & Reflection

Estimated time: 2 hours

• Evaluate peer submissions using a structured rubric
• Reflect on leadership decisions and project management lessons
• Identify areas for personal development in data science leadership

Module 6: Final Project

Estimated time: 10 hours

• Deliverable 1: Video presentation of project leadership journey
• Deliverable 2: Executive summary of key decisions and business impact
• Deliverable 3: Peer-reviewed final submission with feedback incorporation

Prerequisites

• Completion of prior courses in the Data Science Leadership specialization
• Basic understanding of data science workflows and terminology
• Familiarity with project management concepts

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Lead data science projects from initiation to delivery
• Make strategic decisions under business and technical constraints
• Effectively communicate data insights to executive stakeholders
• Manage virtual data science teams through real-world challenges
• Demonstrate leadership in conflict resolution and cross-functional collaboration