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Master of Science Program in Applied Data Science

The Master of Science in Applied Data Science gives students a thorough knowledge of techniques in the field of analytics and data science, and the ability to apply them to real-world business scenarios. Building from a core in applied statistics, math and programming, students are provided with advanced analytical training to develop their ability to draw insights from big data. This includes:  machine learning and predictive analytics, deep learning, reinforcement learning, data engineering platforms, time series analysis, linear and non-linear models, statistical methods, and other sophisticated techniques for analyzing complex data.

The program is highly applied in nature, integrating business strategy, project-based learning, simulations, case studies, and specific electives addressing the analytical needs of various industry sectors. Through partnerships with key employers, the program also provides students with a client based, 2 quarter Capstone experience (1 quarter for MBA/MS in Applied Data Science joint degree students) as well as access to career networks and employment pathways upon graduation.

  • Program type: Masters of Science degree program
  • Program structure, courses, requirements, and application
  • Location:  Cityfront Campus (Downtown) - NBC Tower and the Gleacher Center
  • Time to completion: 1-4 years
  • Only courses with a grade of B- or better will count toward degree requirements
  • Minimum cumulative GPA for satisfactory academic progress: 3.0

Program Modalities

MS in Applied Data Science - In-Person

The In-Person program is ideal for those who learn best in an in-person classroom environment, with access to in-person student services, and prefer to be in Chicago for the duration of the degree program. To view a complete list of course offerings, please visit the in-person program website.

MS in Applied Data Science (2-Year Thesis Track) - In-Person

The 2-year Thesis Track (18 courses) pathway is optimized for those who want a longer master’s program, are interested in taking more elective courses, and have the capacity to complete a master’s thesis. The 2-year (21 month) pathway is completed over 6 academic quarters. The summer in between years 1 and 2 serves as a vacation quarter. To view a complete list of course offerings, please visit the in-person program website.

MS in Applied Data Science - Online

Leverage the latest tools in data analytics with our online applied data science Master's degree. The online program gives you maximum flexibility, while broadening your network of peers. To view a complete list of course offerings, please visit the online program website.

Joint MBA/MS in Applied Data Science 

The joint degree with UChicago’s Booth School of Business is ideal for ambitious students looking to supplement their MBA studies with a cutting-edge education in data science. To view a complete list of course offerings, please visit the joint MBA/MS program website.

Program Requirements for MS in Applied Data Science

  • For students admitted to MS in Applied Data Science In-Person or Online prior to Autumn 2024 (1200 units required for completion):
    • Foundational courses (4 courses – Zero Unit)
    • Core Courses (7 courses – 100 Units each)
    • Electives (3 courses – 100 Units each)
    • Capstone Project (2 courses – 100 Units each)
  • For students admitted to MS in Applied Data Science In-Person or Online in Autumn 2024 and beyond (1200 units required for completion):
    • Foundational courses (4 courses) – Optional
    • Core Courses (6 courses – 100 Units each)
    • Electives (4 courses – 100 Units each)
    • Capstone Project (2 courses – 100 Units each)
    • Career Seminar Requirement (Zero Units)
  • For students in the 2-Year Thesis Track admitted to MS in Applied Data Science In-Person in Autumn 2026 and beyond (1800 units required for completion):
    • Foundational courses (4 courses) – Optional
    • Core Courses (6 courses – 100 Units each)
    • Electives (8 courses – 100 Units each)
    • Capstone Project (2 courses – 100 Units each)
    • Independent Study (2 courses – 100 Units each)
    • Career Seminar Requirement (Zero Units)

For information on the program requirements for the joint MBA/MS in Applied Data Science programs, please visit the joint MBA/MS program website.

Career Seminar Requirement: Our career seminar requirement focus on how to identify and develop industry skills, explore the broad array of jobs that data scientists obtain, and determine what types of companies may be the best fit for the next stages of our students’ careers. Our seminar series helps prepare students for the data science marketplace, to present themselves confidently, and assist students in receiving an internship and/or full-time job offer upon graduation. Students with significant full-time eligible work experience may be eligible to waive this course. For more information on the waiver submission process and the career course seminar sequence, please visit the Curriculum section of the current student website. 

Please see our prospective website for admissions requirements and deadlines and our current student website for information on policies, resources, and program activities.