Have you ever dreamed of learning at MIT?

Are you interested in having a career in computer and data science?

If yes, and you are a refugee, an internally displaced person, or from a low-income family looking to learn new Computer and Data Science skills, Here is a great opportunity for you.

Applications are open for The MIT Emerging Talent Certificate in Computer and Data Science (CDS). CDS is a yearlong online learning program provided by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)  to people from challenging economics and social circumstances, such as refugees, migrants, and first-generation low-income students from historically marginalized backgrounds and underserved communities globally, by equipping them with the knowledge and tools to advance their education and careers.

Program details

The program consists of a Foundation Track and a Certificate program. For the 2024/2025 Certificate in Computer and Data Science program, all accepted participants will start their journey in MIT Emerging Talent’s Foundations Track, where they will build essential skills in digital literacy, important human skills, mathematics, and the basics of computer science to prepare them for success in the Certificate program.

The Foundations Track will commence in mid-November 2024 and will continue for two months. A chosen group of participants will then advance to the Certificate program, which involves comprehensive studies in computer science and data science, incorporating MITx’s demanding courses, practical projects, and access to a global mentorship network, all aimed at enhancing their expertise and preparing them for a successful career in the technology field.

Key dates: 

• October 21, 2024: deadline
• November: Review and acceptance for Emerging Talent Foundations Track
• Mid-November: Foundations Track Begins
• Beginning of January 2025: Foundations Track Ends
• Mid-January 2025: Review and acceptance for Certificate Program
• End of January 2025: Certificate Program Begins
• February – June 2025: Academic Courses
• June – December 2025: Experiential Learning Opportunities
• January 2026: Graduation

Foundation Track: 2 months, from November 2024 to January 2025 – In this phase, learners will be selected to participate in a comprehensive program focused on digital literacy, essential human skills, mathematics, and the basics of computer science.
Certificate Program: 1 year—This year-long journey delved deep into advanced computer science and data science, blending rigorous MITx courses, hands-on projects, and a global network of mentors and peers.

Cost of programs:

There is no financial cost for participating students, aside from needing access to the internet and a computer, which the program will support if required. All program costs, including exam fees and certificates, will be covered by MIT Emerging Talent.

Who can apply to MIT Emerging Talent?

The program is open to refugees, internally displaced persons, and individuals affected by forced migration globally. Priority is given to women, refugees, asylees, and internally displaced individuals. Some spots are available for low-income, first-generation learners.

• Restrictions:
  Due to sanctions, applicants residing in Iran, Cuba, Syria, North Korea, and certain regions of Ukraine (Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk) are ineligible. However, individuals from these countries living elsewhere can apply.
•  Age:
  Applicants must be 18 or older.
• Technology Requirements:
  Reliable access to a computer and the Internet is required. Supported operating systems include Windows, OSX, and Linux.
• Commitment:
  Applicants must commit to 20 hours per week, with 10 hours needing live connectivity.
• Language and Mindset:
  English proficiency is required. Applicants should be motivated, creative, proactive, and able to engage in a multicultural environment. Honest and authentic responses are essential, with AI-generated content disqualifying applicants.

Required documents and submission: 

• ID document
• Video essay ( Max 2 min- mp3, MP4, mov, mkv)- Answer to this question: If you had the time and some resources at your disposal, what is a problem that you are passionate about trying to solve? What motivates your passion to solve this problem? What is your proposed solution, and what type of impact do you expect to have on the problem?
• Short Questions Answers

How to apply?

Applicants should apply online before October 21, 2024, complete the application form authentically, and avoid using AI in their application content.

Apply now

Other opportunities you may like: 

• Apply To Become A TED Fellow and attend a conference in Vancouver Canada
• EDUFI Fellowship 2024 for Ph.D. and Young Researchers in Finland
• Chevening Oxford Center for Islamic Studies Fellowship in the UK
• 300 Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme for the academic year of 2024/2025

For more information, please visit the MIT Emerging Talent website or contact emergingtalent@mit.edu