MS in Data Science Degree Program
Program at a Glance
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Fully Customizable. Only 1 Required Course. |
Optional Internship & STEM OPT Eligible |
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36% Job Growth by 2033 |
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It’s Your Future—Build the MSDS That Gets You There.
The future belongs to analysts who engineer their own expertise. The STEM-designated Master's in Data Science at BU gives you the fastest path to a self-engineered skill-stack for AI, finance, health, policy, theory, and beyond. With only 1 required course, this MSDS is the new standard for data leadership, built entirely on your timeline. Select a concentration in theory or an industry-specific field, with an option to add a thesis or Boston-area internship—all with a 9- to 16-month runway.
You can do anything with data science, but at BU, you can do your thing—in as little as 9 months. Consider a premier accelerated Masters in Data Science.
Boston's AI & Biotech Edge
Boston is your ultimate test-case.
● Ranked #1 for biotech activity
● A global finance center
● Home to +2,000 tech startups
● Ranked #6 globally for startup activity
● Hosting every major hospital system
As the global epicenter for innovation, you have a wealth of biotech, AI start-ups, civic data teams, and more for projects and work opportunities. You'll make an impact before you cross the stage at Commencement. Graduates of the Boston University Masters in Data Science program are translating their custom-engineered skills into high-impact roles immediately.
Why BU Offers One of the Best Masters in Data Science Programs
BU CDS offers one of the best Masters in Data Science Programs because we trust you to know your goals. We provide the high-ranking program, project-based learning, and the flexibility you need. You build your curriculum. You choose an accelerated Masters in Data Science or a longer program with optional internship or thesis.
Career Outcomes
Alumni of the Boston University Masters in Data Science have gone on to jobs with
● Wayfair (ML Engineer)
● Moody’s (Quant)
● MassBio start-ups (Data PM)
● Boston Mayor’s Office (Civic Data Fellow)
● And many more
Maximize your ROI by adding an optional thesis or securing a Boston-area internship—your direct path from the academic world to the professional world.
Learning Outcomes for the Master's in Data Science
When you graduate from Boston University's Master's in Data Science program, you won't just know data science—you'll own it.
Student Spotlight: Taking Action. Making Impact.
The Master's in Data Science is defined by the students who build its curriculum. Take a look at their stories and the impact they are making.
Faculty Spotlight: Defining the Future of Data Science
Gain Boston University Masters in Data Science mentors who share your interests. From Brian Cleary’s Perturb-FISH method that lets biologists watch gene edits ripple through intact tissue to Myank Varia’s cryptographic framework that nails legal accountability, faculty turn cutting-edge computation into impact. The Faculty of Computing & Data Sciences (CDS) drives pioneering research in AI, algorithmic ethics, and applied modeling. Our faculty make the MSDS one of the best masters in data science programs. Master the tools and the mission with the best minds in data science.
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Jeffrey Considine
Associate Professor of the Practice of Computing & Data Sciences + Computer Science
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Thomas Gardos
Associate Professor of the Practice of Computing & Data Sciences
Director of MS in Data Science Program -
Pawel Przytycki
Assistant Professor of Computing & Data Sciences
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Wesley Wildman
Professor of Philosophy, Theology, and Ethics
+ Chair of Faculty Affairs for Computing & Data Sciences
Who Should Apply to the Master’s in Data Science?
Your Academic Background
- You’ll need a bachelor’s or master’s in a field connected to data-driven work.
- Strong fits include core data-science areas like Computer Science, Electrical & Computer Engineering, or Mathematics & Statistics—with experience in algorithms, systems, programming, and theory.
Coming from an Applied Field?
- We also welcome degrees in areas that use data science, such as Information Systems, Economics, Bioinformatics, Physics, Astronomy, Earth & Environment, or Emerging Media (and related fields).
- If that’s you, please make sure you meet the prerequisites listed below.
Prerequisites
We recommend that prospective applicants have completed 4 or more of the courses equivalent to the list below prior to applying to the program.
- Introductory Programming course (eg, Python, Java, C++, R) equivalent to CDS DS 110
- Second course in Programming, equivalent to CDS DS 210 (Programming for Data Science)
- Introductory Discrete Mathematics
- Linear Algebra
- Introductory Statistics and Probability
- Calculus, to the level of Calculus BC Advanced Placement
- Introduction to Algorithms
Missing a Prerequisite?
If your background is strong but you’re short on one or two requirements, you may be admitted with prerequisite courses to get you up to speed.
Application Deadlines
- Priority Application Deadline: February 1st
- Final Application Deadline: April 1st
- International students are highly encouraged to apply by the priority February 1st deadline.
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Defining the Conversation: CDS in the News
Your Boston University Masters in Data Science instructors are the field's most active thought leaders. They help make this MSDS one of the best masters in data science programs available. Track our impact to see how we’re pioneering research, conducting student activities, and shaping global headlines.
Situent: An AI Calendar Assistant Built by a BU CDS PhD Student
Read about CDS PhD Yan (Stella) Si's recent productivity tool project that she's launched to help students manage their busy days through AI.
BU Students Tackle Clinical Problems through Code: A Look at BU’s 2026 MedAI Hackathon
The first ever Boston University MedAI Hackathon was hosted this semester by CDS faculty and students. Learn about what went into the event and its impact.
A Bridge Between the Classroom and Tech Careers: CDS Industry Connections Recap
This Spring, students and employers got the chance to connect in person with an Industry Connections event focused on career exploration. Check out the event recap here!
Storms, Waves, and a Century of Simulated Weather
Read about Mu‑Ting Chien’s work with the deep learning climate emulator ACE2 and its power in enhancing physical understanding of weather and climate variability.
With NIH Funding, Pawel Przytycki Seeks to Decode Cell State Progression
At CDS, data science research pushes beyond the boundaries of digital impact. Read about Assistant Professor Pawel Przytycki's work in furthering our understanding of disease progression through unique markers.
CDS Professor Pawel Przytycki Awarded $2.2M in NIH Funding
The NIH recently selected CDS Professor Pawel Przytycki to be awarded for his lab's groundbreaking research. Read about it here!
From Theorems to Thunderstorms: Forecasting West Africa’s Rains with AI
Read about Professor Yves Atchadé and his team's work building a deep learning model that forecasts rains in West Africa using AI.
A Meaningful Spring Break: CDS Students Partner with MassMutual to Serve the Community Through Data
Boston University students participated in the Data Days for Good (DD4G) initiative this spring; read about the projects they worked on helping address local challenges and more!