RICE UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Master of Data Science (MDS)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 31Graduate Credit Hours Required
- Online or On-Campus OptionsFlexible Attendance Mode
- Specializations in Business Analytics, Machine Learning, Image ProcessingCustomizable Study Paths
- Capstone ProjectReal-World Problem Solving
- Multidisciplinary InstructionDiverse Faculty Expertise
- Professional, Non-Thesis DegreeIndustry-Focused Curriculum
Rice University offers a professional, non-thesis Master of Data Science (MDS) degree designed to equip interdisciplinary professionals with the skills to tackle real-world problems using data. The program emphasizes a blend of computational and statistical foundations, core data science methods, and specialized knowledge. Graduates will be prepared to collect, evaluate, interpret, and communicate data effectively for decision-making across various industries. The MDS program is taught by world-class faculty and provides both on-campus and online learning options, ensuring students receive the same high-quality education regardless of their chosen format. The curriculum is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of data science, including core courses, specialization options, electives, and a capstone project. Students can choose to specialize in areas like business analytics, machine learning, or image processing (the latter currently only for on-campus students). Elective choices allow for further customization, with options in ethics, cybersecurity, and security/privacy. The program's learning outcomes focus on developing proficiency in the computational and statistical underpinnings of data science, applying core methods, solving complex problems with data, and communicating findings to diverse audiences. This interdisciplinary program is ideal for professionals seeking to enhance their data science expertise and apply it to their fields. The flexibility of online and on-campus delivery caters to different learning preferences and professional commitments. Graduates are prepared for in-demand roles in sectors ranging from science and healthcare to energy and manufacturing, where data-driven insights are increasingly critical.
Curriculum
The Master of Data Science (MDS) program requires a minimum of 31 credit hours, featuring a rigorous blend of courses designed to build essential skills for effective data-driven decision-making. The curriculum includes core foundational courses, opportunities for specialization, elective choices for further customization, and a culminating capstone project.
- Core Curriculum
- Computational Foundations
- Statistical Foundations
- Specialization
- Business Analytics
- Machine Learning
- Image Processing (On-Campus Only)
- Electives
- Ethics in Data Science
- Cybersecurity
- Security and Privacy
- Capstone Project
- Data Science Capstone
Careers
Graduates of the Master of Data Science program are prepared for a wide range of in-demand and high-paying roles across numerous industries. The skills acquired enable them to contribute significantly to fields that are increasingly reliant on data-driven insights.
- Data Scientist
- Data Analyst
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Data Engineer
- Quantitative Analyst
Frequently asked questions
- What are the degree requirements for the Master of Data Science (MDS) at Rice University?
- The Master of Data Science (MDS) program requires a minimum of 31 credit hours. The curriculum includes core foundational courses, specialization options, electives, and a capstone project.
- What specializations are available within the MDS program?
- Students can choose to specialize in Business Analytics or Machine Learning. The Image Processing specialization is currently only available for on-campus students.
- What are the potential career outcomes for MDS graduates?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Machine Learning Engineer, Business Intelligence Analyst, Data Engineer, and Quantitative Analyst across various industries.
- How do I apply to the Master of Data Science program?
- You must apply directly to either the Online MDS or the On-Campus MDS program, as admission is granted to one specific format. Prepare application materials such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a resume/CV.
- What are the tuition fees and living costs for the MDS program?
- Specific tuition and living cost information for the Master of Data Science program is not provided. Rice University charges tuition per credit hour, and the MDS program requires 31 credit hours.
- Are there any scholarships available for the Master of Data Science program?
- The provided information mentions the Templeton Foundation Academic Cross Training Fellowship, which is intended for recent tenured philosophers and theologians to gain skills in empirical science and is not directly for Master's students in Data Science.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required. Specific GPA requirements are not listed but a strong academic record is implied.
Applicants must apply to either the online or on-campus program and will be explicitly admitted to one or the other. Supporting information for specific program requirements beyond a bachelor's degree is not detailed on the provided pages.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees are not specified for international students on the provided pages. Rice University uses a semester system, and tuition is charged per credit hour. The total credit hours for the MDS is 31.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees are not specified for domestic students on the provided pages. Rice University uses a semester system, and tuition is charged per credit hour. The total credit hours for the MDS is 31.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided for on-campus students.
The provided fee pages relate to finance programs and do not contain specific tuition or living cost information for the Master of Data Science program. Prospective students should consult the official Rice University admissions or the specific MDS program website for detailed fee structures.
How to apply
1. Choose Program FormatDecide whether to apply for the Online MDS or the On-Campus MDS program. Both offer the same curriculum and degree.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all required documents, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and potentially a resume or CV.
3. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the official application form through the Rice University admissions portal.
4. Await Admission DecisionThe admissions committee will review applications, and applicants will be notified of their admission status.
Scholarships
Templeton Foundation Academic Cross Training Fellowship$220,000
Frequently asked questions
What are the degree requirements for the Master of Data Science (MDS) at Rice University?
+
The Master of Data Science (MDS) program requires a minimum of 31 credit hours. The curriculum includes core foundational courses, specialization options, electives, and a capstone project.
What specializations are available within the MDS program?
+
Students can choose to specialize in Business Analytics or Machine Learning. The Image Processing specialization is currently only available for on-campus students.
What are the potential career outcomes for MDS graduates?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Machine Learning Engineer, Business Intelligence Analyst, Data Engineer, and Quantitative Analyst across various industries.
How do I apply to the Master of Data Science program?
+
You must apply directly to either the Online MDS or the On-Campus MDS program, as admission is granted to one specific format. Prepare application materials such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a resume/CV.
What are the tuition fees and living costs for the MDS program?
+
Specific tuition and living cost information for the Master of Data Science program is not provided. Rice University charges tuition per credit hour, and the MDS program requires 31 credit hours.
Are there any scholarships available for the Master of Data Science program?
+
The provided information mentions the Templeton Foundation Academic Cross Training Fellowship, which is intended for recent tenured philosophers and theologians to gain skills in empirical science and is not directly for Master's students in Data Science.