In order to succeed in Online MEML's Data Science or Computer Science specializations, we recommend MEML students brush up on basic programming and/or math skills prior to starting their degree. One option is to enroll in Rice's online Computer Science / Data Science Bridge Course. This 6-week mini-course covers essential foundational knowledge in calculus, linear algebra, discrete mathematics, and programming basics, including algorithms and data structures with practice in Python language.
If you live in the Houston, Texas area, you have the flexibility to take up to three courses on-campus ("online hybrid"), which may include your Engineering Disciplinary Specialization elective courses.