Master of Science (M.S.) in Data Science

Master of Science (M.S.) in Data Science 

Society needs ethical data scientists

In an era when data-driven decisions and systems influence every sector of business and society, talented professionals who bring an ethical framework to data science are more in demand than ever. The online M.S. in Data Science program empowers you to apply technical methods, employ an ethical lens, and utilize relevant management skills to address the needs of organizations and communities, preparing both experienced professionals and recent college graduates for rewarding careers in one of the world’s fastest-growing fields.


Connect with us!

Talk with our team to learn about the program, the application process, and how we prepare to make you an ethical data scientist.

Data Science Program Webinars

At a Glance

How many courses?


The program consists of 12 courses (36 credits). 

How long will it take?


Students will spend 2 years pursuing the online program on a part-time basis.

When can I start?

 

Students begin the program in the fall semester.

How much does it cost?


To estimate your total program cost, multiply the number of credits required in your program by the tuition cost per credit.

Why Data Science Now?

17,700

projected job openings in the U.S. each
year through 2032

Bureau of Labor Statistics

#4

in Best Technology Jobs


U.S. News & World Report

$108,020

median annual pay for data scientists


Bureau of Labor Statistics

Our Human-Centered Approach

 


Fairness & Bias


Data Security & Privacy


Social Responsibility


Problem Solving


Collaboration


Communication & Storytelling

Curriculum

During this program, you will:

    combine synchronous and asynchronous learning with an online part-time program

    build core skills in areas ranging from machine learning to statistical analysis and data visualization

    participate in an interdisciplinary speaker series

    complete a six-credit capstone project, earning a total of 36 credits

    Requirements


    • Courses: 12
    • Credits: 36
    • Capstone Project

    Outcomes

    35%

    projected growth in data science jobs, 2022–2032

    Bureau of Labor Statistics

    • Develop an understanding of data science techniques in statistics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, data management, and data visualization.
    • Hone effective communication and collaboration skills needed to manage data science projects from inception to implementation.
    • Gain a strong understanding of the social and ethical aspects of data science.
    • Build a portfolio of real-world projects that showcase your skills and abilities for potential employers.

    The Schiller Institute for Integrated Science and Society


    A core part of Boston College’s recent $300 million investment in the sciences, the Schiller Institute fosters human-centered, transdisciplinary research on pressing issues related to energy, environment, and health. The institute will help facilitate the M.S. in Data Science seminar series and students’ capstone projects, providing opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration.

    Faculty

    Our faculty is committed to providing you with the finest opportunity to develop your technical skills and proficiencies. With a keen emphasis on ethics and social responsibility, you'll learn to approach the most challenging problems our society faces today. 

    Tuition & Aid

    Education should level the playing field. We feel the same way about financial aid.

    The Lynch School of Education and Human Development provides more than $11.4 million in financial aid to students each year. As a result, the quality of BC’s instruction, the benefit of our alumni network, and the impact a BC degree will have on your employment options is both affordable and invaluable. 
    In a data-driven world, our data science program provides a purpose-driven compass by empowering graduates to harness data to drive positive change. Our program teaches solid technical skills while also instilling a sense of ethical responsibility in data scientists. We equip our students with the tools to reshape industries, address diverse challenges, and strive for a better society
    Matthias Von Davier, Monan Professor

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    Application & Deadlines

    Apply Now

    A non-refundable application fee of $75 is currently waived.

    Deadlines Fall 2025:

    • Early Decision: January 7
    • Priority Deadline: March 20
    • End of Rolling Admission: July 1

    Program Prerequisites

    Prerequisite Information:

    Applicants must have taken college-level Calculus 1 and Statistics 1 and received passing grades. Familiarity with a programming language and coursework in advanced calculus and statistics are preferred but not required.

    Highly-qualified applicants who have not yet met this criteria may be conditionally admitted with a requirement that the courses be completed before the program begins.

    Personal Statement

    To be uploaded to your online application.

    In 1,000-1,500 words, describe your academic and professional goals, any technical experience related to this program, and your future plans, expectations, and aspirations.

    Letters of Recommendation

    Two letters of recommendation are required, with at least one preferably coming from an academic source. Applicants who have been out of school for more than a couple of years may submit two professional recommendations. Applicants may submit one additional recommendation of their choice.

    Transcripts

    Transcripts from all college/university study are required.

    Applicants who have received degrees from institutions outside the United States should view the "International Students" section for additional credential evaluation requirements.

    Please begin your online application before submitting your transcripts. Details on how to submit transcripts and international credential evaluations can be found within the application.

    In order to ensure your transcript reaches our office, it is important to review and follow the instructions.

     

     

    Standardized Tests

    Submitting GRE test scores are not required for this program for the 2024 entry term(s). If you wish to send GRE scores, the Lynch School GRE code is 3218.

    Please view the "International Students" section for information on English Proficiency test requirements.

    Resume

    To be uploaded to your online application.

    In addition to your academic history and relevant volunteer and/or work experience, please include any programming or other relevant technical skills or experience, any language skills other than English, and any research experience or publications.

    International Students


    Fully online programs* do not support sponsorship of an F1 visa for International Students.

    Applicants who have completed a degree outside of the United States must have a course-by-course evaluation of their transcript(s) completed by an evaluation company approved by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). Submission of falsified documents is grounds for denial of admission or dismissal from the University.

    Applicants who are not native speakers of English and who have not received a degree from an institution where English is the primary language of instruction must also submit a TOEFL or IELTS test result that meets the minimum score requirement.

    Please click the link below for full details on these requirements.

    Requirements for International Students

    *The M.S. in Data Science is a fully-online program.

    Contact Us

      gsoeonline@dos5.net
      617-552-4214