Use Data to Make a Difference
Data has the potential to shape our lives in ways we are only beginning to understand. The Tufts online Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS) program prepares you for a next-generation career in data analysis and data-centric problem-solving—or for further study in the data science field. Through the program’s rigorous curriculum, you’ll be exposed to state-of-the-art ideas. You’ll also be fully immersed in data analysis principles, methods, and practices as you build the analytic expertise to guide high-level, data-driven decision-making and look for actionable insights that could make a difference in the world.
Administered jointly by the Departments of Computer Science and Electrical and Computer Engineering, and featuring courses from both, along with the Department of Mathematics, the MSDS program is interdisciplinary in nature and forward-thinking in its approach. Students enrolled in the program benefit from collaborating with their peers and world-class faculty in project-based research and hands-on projects that allow them to apply their knowledge and hone their skills.
By The Numbers
2
Students can complete the online MSDS in less than two years.*
32
The program is 32 credit hours and is comprised of 10 courses, including a Capstone Project completed over two semesters.
31%
U.S. employment in the field of Data Science is expected to grow by 31%** from 2019 to 2029.
*subject to taking the required number of credits
Is the Tufts Online MSDS Program Right for You?
In the online MS in Data Science program, you’ll learn to evaluate data to predict consequences, quantify risks, and avoid misinterpretations. In order to do so, you’ll develop your understanding, knowledge, and skills within the following areas of data science:
Probabilistic Systems Analysis
Machine Learning
Data Mining
Big Data
Data Infrastructure
Data Analysis

Coursework Overview
The program’s interdisciplinary coursework—designed to set you apart as a highly trained practitioner with the skills needed to move the data science field forward—is delivered 100% online. Comprised of ten courses, including a two-course Capstone Project, the program has a total of 32 credit hours that can be completed in less than 2 years. For the Capstone Project, you will be asked to propose a substantial data science project, carry it through to completion, and provide a professional presentation to faculty and peers that demonstrates what you’ve learned. Other required courses in the program include:.
- Probabilistic Systems Analysis
- Introduction to Machine Learning and Data Mining
- Big Data
Tufts Online MS in Data Science Faculty




Learning Outcomes
In an increasingly data-driven world, data is being used by organizations to make decisions and solve problems based on facts, trends and statistics. Upon completion of the MSDS program, you should be prepared to:
Formulate a problem in terms of data science tools and practices.
Collect and clean data to solve a problem.
Apply an analysis technique to get an answer.
Evaluate the answer in terms of risks and potential errors.
Career Opportunities with an MS in Data Science
The online MSDS program is designed for students who are seeking to gain the skills and credentials that will position them for new job opportunities, to be promoted within their current organization, gain a higher average salary, or pursue future research projects. Jobs for MS in Data Science graduates include:
Key Dates & Deadlines
Take a look at upcoming webinars, application deadlines and semester start dates.
- Summer 2021
- Fall 2021
- Fall 2021
- Fall 2021