QS Rank:

10

The University of Chicago

Illinois
,United States

Program Rank

82

Program Name
Master of Science in Data Science

Deadline
June 19th, 2024
Overview

The Master of Science in Data Science at The University of Chicago offers an intensive and comprehensive curriculum designed for students eager to dive into the world of data science. This program is ideal for individuals looking to pursue advanced research and professional careers within this rapidly evolving field. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, students benefit from courses taught by leading faculty from the departments of statistics, computer science, and more. This integration enriches the learning experience and equips students with the necessary skills to tackle complex data challenges.
Throughout the program, students will engage in a curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications. The Master’s in Data Science is structured to ensure that all graduates are well-rounded in various critical areas. The core curriculum includes five required courses that establish a strong foundation in data science principles. Furthermore, the program offers personalized learning pathways through electives, allowing students to tailor their education based on specific interests or career aspirations. With the completion of a capstone project, students can showcase their skills in real-world scenarios, enhancing their employability in a competitive job market.
The program also provides students with the flexibility to choose foundational courses that can be taken in the summer before the program begins. This flexibility allows students who may not have a strong background in data science-related fields to better prepare themselves. By fostering an inclusive learning environment, the Master of Science in Data Science aims to bridge gaps in knowledge and experience, ensuring all students can excel regardless of their prior exposure.
As a part of the University of Chicago, students have unique access to a wealth of research opportunities and resources. The university is home to the Data Science Institute, which serves as a hub for innovation and research collaborations. Students can engage with faculty-led research projects, gain hands-on experience, and leverage industry partnerships to enhance their academic journeys. These connections not only enrich the learning experience but also open doors to internship and career opportunities in prominent organizations.
Graduates of the Master of Science in Data Science program are well-equipped for a variety of roles within the data science landscape. With a high job placement percentage of 94% and a median base salary of $83,000, this program consistently produces highly sought-after professionals. Alumni of the program have gone on to achieve significant success in roles such as Data Scientist, Statistical Analyst, and Data Engineer in leading organizations worldwide. The extensive network of the university further supports graduates in building fulfilling careers in the data field.
The Curriculum
Foundational Courses:
Students in the program have the option to test out of three foundational courses offered in the late summer online before the fall quarter. Completing these foundational courses is crucial for those who need to strengthen their knowledge base in data science:
- Computational Foundations for Data Science
- Mathematical Foundations for Data Science
- Statistical Foundations for Data Science
Core Courses:
The curriculum includes essential core courses that provide a solid ground in data science methodologies:
- Introduction to Data Science
- Systems for Data and Computers/Data Design
- Data Interaction
- Introduction to ML and AI or Foundations of Machine Learning and AI Part I
- Responsible Use of Data and Algorithms
In addition to core courses, students can select four graduate-level electives from a diverse range of offerings in Data Science, Computer Science, and Statistics. This flexibility allows for a customized educational experience that aligns with individual career goals.
Why Study Data Science at The University of Chicago?
- Renowned faculty with expertise in various disciplines including statistics and computer science.
- Access to cutting-edge research facilities and resources through the Data Science Institute.
- Collaborative learning environment with integration alongside PhD students.
- High job placement rates and competitive median salaries post-graduation.
- Strong alumni network providing ongoing support and career opportunities.
To apply for the Master of Science in Data Science, prospective students need to submit a comprehensive application that includes a transcript, personal statement, resume, and letters of recommendation. Additionally, applicants are required to demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS. The application process is designed to be thorough yet accessible, ensuring that every candidate’s strengths and potential are recognized.
In conclusion, the Master of Science in Data Science at The University of Chicago is an exemplary program that not only prepares students for successful careers in data science but also fosters a vibrant academic community committed to innovation and excellence. Whether you are an aspiring data scientist or looking to pivot your career trajectory, this program offers the tools, knowledge, and connections you need to succeed.

Total Tuition Fees
$38,826

Duration
12 Months

Median Salary
$83,000
Ranking
#6
US World and News Report
#13
The World University Rankings
#10
QS World University Rankings

Intake
Fall ( Sept - Nov )

Intake
Spring ( Apr - June )
Class Profile

Class Size
19

Average Age
20

Average Work Experience
2 Years
Diversity
Others:
10%Native American:
1%Hispanic American:
10%International:
19%African American:
9%Asian American:
28%White American:
23%Career Outcomes

Median Earnings After Graduation
$83,000 / year

Graduation Rate
96%

Job Placement
94%
Prospective Job Roles
Statistician
Data Engineer
Database Administrator
Systems Administrator
Data Scientist
Business Analyst
Big Data Engineer
Project Manager
Program Manager
Data analyst
Top recruiters












Eligibility Criteria
English Proficiency Tests
IELTS
7
TOEFL
102
Application Requirements
Here's everything you need to know to ensure a complete and competitive application—covering the key documents and criteria for a successful submission.

Application Fee: 90
Transcript
Passport
Personal Statement
272
Resume
Academic LOR
Academic LOR
Professional LOR
TOEFL
IELTS
Application Deadlines
Standard Deadline | Final Deadline | |
---|---|---|
Fall | Feb 5, 2024 | Jun 19, 2024 |
Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees
$38,826 / year

Overall Cost
$68,826 / year

Average Total Aid Awarded
$2,00,00,000 / year
Funding Options
Department Funding
Scholarships
Nearly $20 million in need-based financial aid has been offered to international students at UChicago over the past four years, and a recent gift of $35 million for international financial aid has strengthened the University’s commitment to enrolling a diverse and talented student body from around the world. International students should apply for financial aid at the time they apply to UChicago for admission. We are committed to meeting 100% of your demonstrated need with a loan-free financial aid package if you are admitted and applied for funding. Our financial aid packages are based on an estimate of the full costs of enrolling at the University of Chicago, including tuition, housing, health insurance, a meal plan, and estimates for additional costs like books and personal expenses.
International students are eligible for financial aid only if they apply for funding during the admissions process, and will not be eligible for financial aid after receiving their admissions decision or during their four years in the College. If you think you will need financial aid at any point during your four years at UChicago, you should apply for financial aid when you apply for admission.
Because the Office of College Admissions, not the Office of Financial Aid, reviews all applications for international financial aid, please contact the College Admissions Team with questions about financial aid for international students
Timeline
Early Action & Early Decision I Early Decision II Regular Decision
Submission Deadline November 15 January 15 February 15
Required Materials
- The International Financial Aid Worksheet, available in the UChicago Account
- Supporting Documentation
The International Financial Aid Worksheet
The International Student Financial Aid Worksheet should be filled out and submitted online, through a student’s UChicago Account. Please note that this is the only form available for non-US citizens and non-US permanent residents applying for financial aid at UChicago.
Supporting Documentation
You will be asked to upload additional documentation that verifies your family’s income and asset information — tax forms, a statement from an employer, a bank statement, or another form of documentation. Once the International Financial Aid Worksheet has been submitted, students can also submit these supporting documents, as well as any explanation for unusual circumstances, online through their UChicago Account. Under the Upload Materials section, choose the “Foreign Aid Application Supporting Docs” option from the drop-down menu.
Please note: International aid applicants should not submit the CSS Profile or the FAFSA, and the Certification of Finances form need not be submitted with an applicant’s financial aid application.
Merit Scholarships for International Students
To recognize applicants for their outstanding academic and extracurricular achievement, demonstrated leadership, and commitment to their communities, we offer merit scholarships to international applicants. Merit scholarships are partial-tuition scholarships that may be a single lump-sum award, or a renewable annual award. Merit scholarships are considered independently of an applicant’s financial situation, so if an applicant thinks he or she may require financial assistance to fund his or her college education, the applicant must submit an application for need-based financial aid. The vast majority of financial aid at UChicago is given out in the form of need-based aid, and applicants should not rely on merit scholarships to fund their college education.
All first-year applicants are automatically considered for merit scholarships; no additional application is required. International transfer students are not eligible for merit-based scholarships. Scholarship winners will receive notification of their awards on a rolling basis through the end of April. Please note that only merit scholarship winners are notified.
International Transfer Applicants
Financial aid is not available to international transfer applicants, and international transfer students must be able to document that they are able to fully finance their education at UChicago.
FAQs
TOEFL score reports will be considered expired if the test was taken more than two years prior to the application deadline.
The minimum required score for the TOEFL is 102 overall. Minimum required scores in the IELTS are an overall score of seven. (Note: students are required to take the Academic Reading/Writing test within IELTS, not the General Training Reading/Writing test). TOEFL or IELTS score reports are valid for two years and scores will be considered expired if the test was taken more than two years prior to submission of the application. Photocopies of TOEFL or IELTS Score Reports will not be considered valid
In order to meet the proof of proficiency requirement, students may submit either the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) internet-based test (iBT), including the standard at-home version or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic (Note: applicants are required to take the Academic Reading/Writing test within IELTS, not the General Training Reading/Writing test.) Any other proficiency tests, exams, equivalent coursework, certificate/certifications, endorsement from faculty, and/or other measurement other than the TOEFL or IELTS are not accepted. This includes the IELTS “Indicator” test and the TOEFL ITP Plus. TOEFL or IELTS score reports are valid for two years and scores will be considered expired if the test was taken more than two years prior to the application deadline. Photocopies or PDFs of TOEFL or IELTS Score Reports will not be considered valid or accepted in lieu of an official score report.
No, the GRE/GMAT is not required for admission
No. Forms for letters of recommendation, along with instructions for completing and submitting the letters, are sent electronically to recommenders once names are added to the online application.
A student can complete Data Science at The University of Chicago with in 12 months
All students are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships, regardless of their financial situation. There is no separate application required. Exemplary students are selected to receive University merit scholarships on the basis of outstanding academic achievement, extracurricular achievement, demonstrated leadership, and commitment to their communities.
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