Data Science

Program Type
Master’s Program
Degree
Master of Science (MS)
Mode of Study
In Person
Our Data Science master’s program is currently not admitting new students. Our Admission team can help you to find other program options.

Cost per credit hour

In-state: $445.
Out-of-state: $1,350. See details and other costs

Credit hours

30 required credit hours. Most courses are equal to 3 credit hours. Browse course list

Financial aid

Over 150 graduate assistantships available with stipend & tuition assistance, plus scholarship & fellowship opportunities. Explore aid

Admissions

No GRE required. Apply by August 1 for Fall 2023. View application process & deadlines

Program Highlights

  • Earn your degree on your terms: Take several courses each semester to finish in 2 years or take fewer courses each semester and finish in 4 years.
  • Tailor the degree to your career goals: Choose to concentrate in Business Analytics, Computation, Cybersecurity, Geographic Information Systems, Predictive Analytics, Prescriptive Analytics, or Public Health.
  • Take advantage of the flexibility to choose from both day and evening classes.
  • Study with faculty with diverse expertise who are dedicated to helping you succeed.
  • Learn to use critical thinking skills and apply knowledge and methods when analyzing problems and developing state-of-the-art solutions.
  • Choose to complete a practicum or a thesis for your capstone project.
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Program requirements

The MS in Data Science allows you to align your studies with your interests. Choose a concentration in Business Analytics, Computation, Cybersecurity, Geographic Information Systems, Predictive Analytics, Prescriptive Analytics, or Public Health.

John Mitchell Center on the University of Southern Maine Gorham campus.

Dedicated faculty

The MS in Data Science is a collaboration of the Mathematics & Statistics and Computer Science departments, offering diverse faculty expertise. Small class sizes enable our dedicated faculty to maintain close connections with students and provide extra support, as needed.

Graduate students attend their orientation in a lecture hall, with a staff member speaking at a podium.

Graduate student support

Our Office of Graduate Studies connects you with opportunities for professional development, scholarships, and graduate assistantships. They also foster our graduate student community through Peer Mentorship and the Graduate Student Board.

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Scholarship opportunities

Scholarships offer financial aid that doesn’t need to be repaid. We encourage students in graduate degree programs to apply for scholarship opportunities.

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Connect with us

Our monthly Graduate Information Sessions are an excellent way to learn more about the benefits of our program, as well as our admissions and financial process.

Register today
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Next Steps

Our graduate admissions counselors are here to answer your questions about the admissions process, our academic programs, and student support services.


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Admission information: MS in Data Science

Application deadlines

We accept applications on a rolling basis and review them continuously.

Application deadlineFall term start
FinalAugust 1, 2023
International applicantsJune 1, 2023
  • Bachelors degree from a regionally accredited college/university or its equivalent with a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
  • One course from each of the three following categories:
    • Calculus
      • MAT 152 – Calculus A
      • MAT 153 – Calculus B
    • Probability and Statistics
      • MAT 210 – Business Statistics
      • MAT 220 – Statistics for Biological Sciences
      • MAT 282 – Statistical Inference
      • MAT 380 – Probability and Statistics
    • Computer Science
      • COS 160 – Structured Problem Solving: Java
      • COS 184 – Python Programming

Applicants are required to provide the following materials:

General requirements

  • Application: Online application
  • Application fee:
    • In-state, out-of-state, and Canadian applicants: Free to apply
    • International applicants: Submit US $50 fee to apply
  • Transcripts: Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended, excluding the seven campuses of the University of Maine System (UMS transcripts are accessible to USM). A transcript is official when sent directly from the institution.
  • Resume: Submit a resume or CV that outlines professional, volunteer, and community experience.
  • Students whose first language is not English may be required to take one of the following: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Pearson Test of English (PTE) or Duolingo. Applicants must submit official scores as part of the application process. See additional information regarding test scores and requirements.

Additional requirements

  • Essay: Why are you pursuing a degree in data science? How does this degree align with your professional goals?
  • Letters of Recommendation: Three letters of recommendation. Recommendations should be from individuals who are qualified, through direct experience with your academic or professional work, to comment on your ability to undertake graduate study and your chosen profession.

International student instructions

View additional application requirements

English proficiency test scores

View test requirements

Where to send application materials

Get our mailing address and email address