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Data Science, MS

The Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS) offers a rigorous curriculum designed to align with the rapid advancements in data science (DS) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.

In 12 months, the program integrates courses in analytics, machine learning, deep learning, cloud computing, large language models, solution communication, advanced AI topics, data engineering, and more. Through a combination of theoretical foundations with approximately nine months of hands-on practical application, including real-world practicum experiences, students are prepared to thrive in the dynamic and ever-evolving realms of data science and artificial intelligence.

Apply Now for 2025

The Summer 2025 application is now open. 
The priority application date is December 5.

A Career in Artificial Intelligence with Data Science

Master’s degrees launch AI professionals to new heights in their careers. Employees with AI-related master’s degrees are in high demand across a range of industries, and the salaries they’ll earn are higher than those of their counterparts who hold only undergraduate degrees. Explore career paths, skillsets, and outcomes for AI professionals.

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Technically Challenging Curriculum

Since we hosted the first cohort of MSDS in 2012, the MSDS curriculum has been meticulously curated and regularly updated to align with the latest industry trends and advancements. Throughout the program, students will develop proficiency in a wide range of analytical skills, gain expertise in computational and engineering tools, and delve deeply into advanced machine learning (ML), deep learning (DL), and artificial intelligence (AI) methodologies.

Program Overview

Data Engineering Concentration

Students enrolled in the MSDS program have the option to add the Data Engineering concentration.

Data Engineering Concentration

Practicum

An integral part of the program is that all students are guaranteed participation in a practicum program with our external partners aimed at offering real-world working experience. With a dedicated commitment of 16 hours per week spanning approximately nine months, students directly engage with business and research challenges to apply their acquired skills in data science, data engineering, and AI development. These practicum project placements extend beyond the confines of the San Francisco Bay Area, providing students exposure to a diverse group of companies and industries across different geographic locations. Previous partners include Meta, Reddit, Atlassian, Block Inc., PG&E, UCSF, Stanford Medical, Upwork, BlackRock, and AWS. See a full list of historical partners and projects below:

Practicum

Faculty

Our faculty represents the fundamental multidisciplinary nature of the big data industry. They’re teacher-scholars and practitioners actively working in the field, using real industry experience to inspire their instruction.

Faculty

From Info to Action

Data Science graduates, Danielle Savage ’18 and Cameron Carlin ’17, use data to serve the common good.

Danielle Savage
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Video Transcript
Ka Yam

Ka Yam ’22

We have students from all walks of life, and so many students that don’t come from typical data science backgrounds. This program has really been so welcoming in terms of teaching everybody that is interested in the field."

Ka Yam ’22

Data Science, MS

Aija Tapaninen, Administrative Director
USF Downtown Campus
101 Howard Street
San Francisco, CA 94105