UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · UNITED STATES
Master of Science in Data Science
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€54k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 12 x 4-unit coursesCourse Load
- Thesis or Comprehensive Exam optionsDegree Completion
- Foundational, Core, and Elective coursesCurriculum Structure
- Focus on practical data-driven tasks and researchProgram Goal
- Optional domain focus courses (e.g., economics, biology)Interdisciplinary Studies
The Master of Science (MS) in Data Science program at the Halıcıoğlu Data Science Institute (HDSI) aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for data-driven tasks and to foster future researchers who can advance the field of Data Science. The program consists of formal courses and a choice between a thesis or comprehensive examinations for degree completion. Students will complete a total of twelve 4-unit courses, divided into Foundational (Group A), Core (Group B), and Elective (Group C) requirements. These ensure exposure to fundamental concepts, advanced topics, and current research or applications in Data Science. Foundational courses cover programming, data organization, linear algebra, probability, statistics, and optimization. Core courses build upon these fundamentals, with specific required courses and a selection of others. Electives allow for specialization within data science or in related fields, subject to advisor approval. Upon completion of coursework, students can pursue either a Thesis (Plan I) or a Comprehensive Examination (Plan II). The Thesis option involves 8-12 units of Thesis Research (DSC 299) under faculty guidance. The Comprehensive Examination option assesses a student's ability to apply data science knowledge across Machine Learning/Computing, Math/Statistics, and Systems/Algorithms, typically evaluated through specific course assignments or exams.
Curriculum
The MS in Data Science program requires completion of twelve 4-unit courses (48 units total), with at least 40 units from graduate-level courses. The curriculum is structured into Foundational, Core, and Elective components.
- Core Curriculum
- Foundational Courses (Group A)DSC 200, DSC 202, DSC 210, DSC 211, DSC 212 (Max 16 units)
- Required Core Courses (Group B)DSC 240, DSC 241, DSC 260
- Additional Core Courses (Group B - choose at least 3)DSC 203, DSC 204A, DSC 204B, DSC 206, DSC 215, DSC 242, DSC 243, DSC 244, DSC 245, DSC 250, DSC 261
- Elective Courses (Group C)DSC 205, DSC 231, DSC 251, DSC 252, DSC 253, DSC 254, DSC 213, DSC 214, CSE 234, MATH 181 A-B-C, MATH 284, MATH 285, MATH 287A-B, COGS 243, DSC 291 (Research)
Careers
Graduates of the MS in Data Science program are prepared for a variety of roles in academia and industry. The program aims to produce professionals capable of performing data-driven tasks and contributing to the advancement of the data science field.
- Data Scientist
- Data Analyst
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Researcher
Frequently asked questions
- What are the estimated tuition and fees for international students in the MS in Data Science program at UC San Diego?
- For self-supporting programs like the MS in Data Science, the estimated annual tuition and fees for international students are approximately $63,501. This figure does not include additional potential costs such as health insurance.
- What is the estimated annual living cost for graduate students at UC San Diego?
- Estimated annual living expenses for food and housing for graduate students living off-campus are approximately $31,548. This amount can vary based on individual lifestyle and accommodation choices.
- How long does the MS in Data Science program typically take to complete?
- The program requires completion of twelve 4-unit courses (48 units total). Students can choose between a thesis or comprehensive examination option for degree completion, which impacts the overall program duration.
- What are the career outcomes for graduates of the MS in Data Science program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Machine Learning Engineer, and Researcher in academia and industry. The program focuses on developing skills for data-driven tasks and advancing the field of data science.
- What are the academic entry requirements for the MS in Data Science program?
- A bachelor's degree is required for admission, and a strong academic record is expected. Specific GPA requirements are not listed. International applicants must also meet English proficiency requirements, with common tests including TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo English Test.
- What documents are needed for the MS in Data Science application?
- Required documents include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, resume/CV, and English proficiency test scores. GRE scores may also be required, and applicants should check the HDSI website for specifics.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree is required for admission. Specific GPA requirements are not listed but a strong academic record is expected.
TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo English TestSpecific minimum scores are not provided on the program page, but generally, strong scores are expected for graduate admissions at UC San Diego.
Students admitted to the MS program who have already completed equivalent graduate-level foundational courses may petition to waive those requirements and potentially use them to waive prerequisites for Group B & C courses.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition and fees for graduate students at UC San Diego are listed by school and program type. For self-supporting programs like the MS in Data Science, the estimated annual tuition and fees for non-California residents (which includes international students) are approximately $63,501, excluding additional potential fees like health insurance.
Tuition (home)Tuition and fees for California residents are generally lower than for non-residents. However, specific figures for the MS Data Science program for California residents are not detailed separately on the provided pages, but the general Rady School MBA figures show a significant difference.
LivingEstimated annual living expenses (food & housing) for graduate students living off-campus are approximately $31,548. This figure can vary based on individual spending habits and accommodation choices.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. The estimated cost of attendance may include additional expenses such as books, supplies, personal expenses, and transportation. The UC San Diego Mandatory Student Health Insurance Plan (UC SHIP) fee is approximately $6,600 annually and may be waived if equivalent private insurance is held.
How to apply
1. Review Admission RequirementsFamiliarize yourself with the general graduate admission requirements for UC San Diego and any specific prerequisites or recommendations for the MS in Data Science program. This includes academic background and English language proficiency.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all necessary documents, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and test scores (GRE, TOEFL/IELTS if required). Check the HDSI website for any program-specific essays or requirements.
3. Submit Online ApplicationComplete and submit the UC San Diego Graduate Application for Admission, which is typically done online through the Graduate Admissions website.
4. Pay Application FeeA non-refundable application fee is usually required. Fee waivers may be available under certain circumstances.
5. Transcripts and Test ScoresOfficial transcripts and test scores must be sent directly from the issuing institutions/testing agencies to UC San Diego Graduate Admissions.
6. Await Admission DecisionApplications are reviewed by the HDSI admissions committee. Decisions are typically released within a specified timeframe after the application deadline.
7. Accept Offer and Secure VisaIf admitted, formally accept the offer of admission and begin the process of obtaining the necessary student visa (e.g., F-1 visa) by following the instructions provided by UC San Diego's International Students & Programs Office (ISPO).
Accreditation
UC San Diego is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
Frequently asked questions
What are the estimated tuition and fees for international students in the MS in Data Science program at UC San Diego?
+
For self-supporting programs like the MS in Data Science, the estimated annual tuition and fees for international students are approximately $63,501. This figure does not include additional potential costs such as health insurance.
What is the estimated annual living cost for graduate students at UC San Diego?
+
Estimated annual living expenses for food and housing for graduate students living off-campus are approximately $31,548. This amount can vary based on individual lifestyle and accommodation choices.
How long does the MS in Data Science program typically take to complete?
+
The program requires completion of twelve 4-unit courses (48 units total). Students can choose between a thesis or comprehensive examination option for degree completion, which impacts the overall program duration.
What are the career outcomes for graduates of the MS in Data Science program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Machine Learning Engineer, and Researcher in academia and industry. The program focuses on developing skills for data-driven tasks and advancing the field of data science.
What are the academic entry requirements for the MS in Data Science program?
+
A bachelor's degree is required for admission, and a strong academic record is expected. Specific GPA requirements are not listed. International applicants must also meet English proficiency requirements, with common tests including TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo English Test.
What documents are needed for the MS in Data Science application?
+
Required documents include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, resume/CV, and English proficiency test scores. GRE scores may also be required, and applicants should check the HDSI website for specifics.