UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN–MADISON · UNITED STATES
Data Science, MS
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
The Master of Science (MS) in Data Science is a collaborative program offered by the Departments of Statistics and Computer Sciences, administered by the Statistics Department. This program equips students with essential computational and statistical thinking skills. These abilities, when combined with domain-specific knowledge, enable graduates to tackle complex data-rich problems across various industries and fields. Graduates will develop the critical thinking, data management, processing, modeling, and analytical skills necessary to derive meaning and knowledge from data, while also learning to use data in responsible and ethical ways. The curriculum focuses on the rapidly evolving areas of applied statistical and computing research and practice. Graduates are prepared for roles as data analysts and data scientists, or to pursue further advanced studies in data science, statistics, computer science, or related quantitative fields.
Curriculum
The MS Data Science program requires a minimum of 30 credits, with at least 16 credits of residence and 15 credits of graduate-level coursework. Students must maintain an overall graduate GPA of 3.00. The program structure includes core courses in Statistics and Computer Sciences, as well as electives.
- Core Requirements
- Statistical Models for Data ScienceSTAT 611
- Statistical Inference for Data ScienceSTAT 612
- Statistical Methods for Data ScienceSTAT 613
- Core CS Courses (choose 1 from Algorithms, 1 from Systems, 1 from Humans and Data)
- Machine Learning Core (choose 2)
- Electives
- Data Science Electives (choose 6 credits)
Careers
Graduates of the MS Data Science program are well-prepared for various roles in data-driven fields. The program cultivates skills applicable to analyzing and interpreting complex datasets, leading to diverse career opportunities.
- Data Analyst
- Data Scientist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic prerequisites for the MS in Data Science program?
- You need to have completed coursework equivalent to UW-Madison's Calculus I, Calculus II, and Linear Algebra. Additionally, at least one course equivalent to introductory data science programming (like COMP SCI 220 or 300) is required. Experience with R is also recommended.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
- International students must meet the Graduate School's English Proficiency Requirements. Please refer to Graduate School policy UW-1241 for specific score details.
- How do I apply to the MS in Data Science program?
- The application process involves submitting an online application through the Graduate School portal. You will need to provide transcripts, a statement of purpose, and two letters of recommendation. Ensure you meet both the program's and the Graduate School's minimum requirements.
- What is the application deadline for the MS in Data Science program?
- The application deadline for Fall admission is February 15. The program does not admit students for Spring or Summer semesters.
- What are the estimated tuition and fees for the program?
- Tuition and fee details can be found by referring to the Bursar's Office. Students in this program are not eligible for tuition remission from graduate assistantship appointments.
- What are the career prospects after completing the MS in Data Science?
- Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Data Analyst and Data Scientist. The program equips students with skills to tackle complex data-rich problems across various industries.
Entry requirements
Calculus and Mathematical FoundationCompletion of courses equivalent to UW-Madison's MATH 221 (Calculus I), MATH 222 (Calculus II), and MATH 340 (Elementary Matrix and Linear Algebra) or MATH 345 (Linear Algebra and Optimization).
Programming FoundationCompletion of at least one course equivalent to COMP SCI 220 (Data Science Programming I), COMP SCI 300 (Programming II), or COMP SCI 320 (Data Science Programming II).
Recommended CourseworkSignificant experience in R is recommended. Courses such as STAT 303, 304, 305 (R for Statistics I, II, III), and STAT 433 (Data Science with R) are beneficial.
Graduate School English Proficiency RequirementsRefer to the Graduate School policy: UW-1241
Applicants must meet the minimum requirements set by the Graduate School as well as the specific requirements of the MS Data Science program. Two letters of recommendation are required. GRE scores are not required.
Fees
Tuition (international)Refer to the Bursar's Office for current tuition and fees.
Tuition (home)Refer to the Bursar's Office for current tuition and fees.
LivingRefer to the program website for estimated cost of attendance.
Students in this program are not eligible for tuition remission from graduate assistantship appointments.
How to apply
1. Research ProgramsExplore the MS Data Science program details and ensure you meet all prerequisites.
2. Review Graduate School RequirementsFamiliarize yourself with the general minimum admission requirements set by the UW-Madison Graduate School.
3. Prepare Application MaterialsGather required documents, including transcripts, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. Ensure you have completed prerequisite coursework.
4. Submit Online ApplicationComplete and submit the online application form via the Graduate School's application portal.
5. Await Admission DecisionAfter application submission, both the program and the Graduate School will review your application. Decisions are typically communicated after the deadline.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic prerequisites for the MS in Data Science program?
+
You need to have completed coursework equivalent to UW-Madison's Calculus I, Calculus II, and Linear Algebra. Additionally, at least one course equivalent to introductory data science programming (like COMP SCI 220 or 300) is required. Experience with R is also recommended.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
International students must meet the Graduate School's English Proficiency Requirements. Please refer to Graduate School policy UW-1241 for specific score details.
How do I apply to the MS in Data Science program?
+
The application process involves submitting an online application through the Graduate School portal. You will need to provide transcripts, a statement of purpose, and two letters of recommendation. Ensure you meet both the program's and the Graduate School's minimum requirements.
What is the application deadline for the MS in Data Science program?
+
The application deadline for Fall admission is February 15. The program does not admit students for Spring or Summer semesters.
What are the estimated tuition and fees for the program?
+
Tuition and fee details can be found by referring to the Bursar's Office. Students in this program are not eligible for tuition remission from graduate assistantship appointments.
What are the career prospects after completing the MS in Data Science?
+
Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Data Analyst and Data Scientist. The program equips students with skills to tackle complex data-rich problems across various industries.