Financing Your Education
The Master of Science in Data Science program awards a limited number of merit-based partial scholarships to incoming students. These scholarships do not require a separate application. All students admitted to the program are considered for these scholarships during the admission decision process. Applications completed by the early application date are given priority consideration for a program scholarship.
Estimated Tuition
For the 2025-2026 academic year, the estimated cost of the MS in Data Science is $1,695 per unit. A total of 35 units are required for the degree. The total estimated tuition cost of the program is $59,325. Tuition costs and other fees are subject to adjustment annually. See the full cost of attendance (used for U.S. federal student aid calculation). Please contact Aija Tapaninen to discuss the specifics of the program.
Program Scholarships
All applicants are automatically considered for program scholarships during the application review process, based on the academic and professional background shown in their application materials.
Eligible students will also be considered for the following scholarships aimed at broadening the range of perspectives in the field of data science, and providing opportunities to groups that have historically been underrepresented in the discipline.
Women in Data Science Scholarship
The Women in Data Science Scholarship is open to male, female, and non-binary students who plan to help in increasing the representation of women in the sciences.
Veterans of the Armed Forces Scholarship
Veterans of the Armed Forces Scholarship is awarded to veterans who served in the US military and would add an invaluable perspective to the classroom and to the data science field. This scholarship is issued by the MS in Data Science program and is not connected to the GI Bill. Interested students must complete the questions about their service status on the program application.
The University of San Francisco and the MS in Data Science program are also eligible for the Yellow Ribbon benefits. For more information about the Veterans benefits, please contact the USF Veterans Enrollment Center.
Additional Funding Opportunities
Double Dons Scholarship
USF Alumni and current students can be awarded the USF Double Dons Scholarship upon admission. The scholarship covers 20% of the program tuition, and may not be stacked with other USF scholarship awards. Exceptions may apply.
College of Arts & Sciences Dean's Scholarship
The College of Arts & Sciences Dean's Scholarship provides $15,000 for their tuition to two awardees. To be considered for the dean’s scholarship, students must apply by the program’s priority deadline. Additional benefits include the Dean's Scholar kickoff and reception, connection with other Dean's Scholars and with leaders across the college, and the chance to serve as program representatives to USF donors and Development initiatives.
Craig Newmark Scholarship
The Craig Newmark Scholarship supports the pursuit of careers in technology for students. Additional funding may be available for conference attendance. All students regardless of gender may apply and will be considered.
Practicum
All students in the Master of Science in Data Science program participate in our nine-month practicum. These projects may be paid or unpaid, depending on the placement, firm, and/or organization at which a student completes their practicum project.
Research and Teaching Assistantships
Research and Teaching Assistantships within the MSDS program or other USF departments may be available during the Data Engineering concentration. Due to the demanding schedule during the 12-month MSDS coursework, students are not eligible to work outside their practicum.
Funding for Undocumented Students
USF Magis Scholarship for undocumented/DACA graduate students. For more information, please contact Lori Prince, lprince2@usfca.edu.
Outside Scholarships
Non-USF scholarship funding for women, US and international students.