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Interdisciplinary Programs

Data Science

Master's

Northeastern's Master of Science in Data Science program provides a comprehensive foundation in the skills and theory of data science and the tools and experience to translate data into clear, strategic insights.

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Program Format
On ground
Time Commitment
Part time, Full time
Duration
2 - 2.5 Year(s)
Entry Term(s)
Fall, Spring
Meets F1 visa requirements
Yes

Program overview

Translate data into insights

Data has become one of the most critical tools in shaping our economy, society, and culture. Now more than ever, the world needs people who can understand this untapped resource and draw conclusions vital to future success. We developed our Master of Science in Data Science program with that in mind.

As an interdisciplinary program connecting the Khoury College of Computer Sciences, the College of Engineering, and the College of Arts, Media and Design, you’ll develop comprehensive expertise in mathematics, computing, data engineering, and visualization—allowing you to take your data career to the next level. The interdisciplinary approach means you’ll receive robust exposure to all aspects of data science. Elective courses help you create a curriculum tailored to your interests.

Specialize in one of three industry-aligned concentrations:

Computer science (Khoury College of Computer Sciences)

Learn to build the infrastructure for data-driven products. Cloud computing and distributed systems courses teach you to develop scalable platforms while database classes show you how to organize and query massive datasets.

Data, design, and visualization (College of Arts, Media and Design)

Learn to turn complex data into compelling, actionable insights through data science, human-centered design, user experience, and critical inquiry—preparing you for in-demand roles combining analytics and storytelling.

Engineering theory and modeling (College of Engineering)

Focus on applying data techniques to real-world challenges across fields such as renewable energy, chemical processing, and urban infrastructure. Learn to use data for innovations from predicting equipment failure to improving wastewater treatment.

  • Our program meets F-1 international student status requirements.
  • Courses are tailored toward technically or mathematically trained students.
  • Elective courses allow you to explore what interests you.

After you successfully complete your master’s in data science are qualified to seek jobs as:

  • Data scientist
  • Machine learning engineer
  • Applications architect
  • Enterprise architect
  • Data architect
  • Infrastructure architect
  • Data engineer
  • Business intelligence developer
  • Data analyst

Employees with data science expertise are sought out in every industry, not just in technology. “Data scientists are highly educated—88 percent have at least a master’s degree and 46 percent have PhDs—and while there are notable exceptions, a very strong educational background is usually required to develop the depth of knowledge necessary to be a data scientist,” reports KDnuggets, a leading website on Big Data.

Admissions

Apply to the program

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and real-world professional experience in your area of interest. Apply to take your career to the next level.

Applicants must submit the online application and all required admission materials no later than the stated deadlines to be considered for admission. Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis.


Spring Term

International Students:November 1
Domestic students:December 1

Fall Term

International Students:May 1
Domestic students:August 30

  • Online application

  • Transcripts from all institutions attended

  • Statement of purpose that should include career goals and expected outcomes and benefits from the program

  • Resume

  • GRE Optional

  • Letters of recommendation*

  • English proficiency requirements for international students*

    • The Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE) is a required assessment of all transcripts and documents from non-U.S. accredited post-secondary education institutions. (Review the FCE requirements by country.)

    • Recommended TOEFL iBT score of 4.5 examination score (international students only)

*Requirements may vary between concentrations for this program.

Program objectives

Prepare for success

Our program allows you to develop strong programming and analysis skills to explore data, produce summary statistics, perform statistical analyses; using standard data mining and machine-learning models for effective analysis.

Learn in-demand skills and knowledge

Gain the ability to effectively utilize integrated databases for managing large-scale datasets, effectively apply an appropriate machine-learning model to a problem, and then communicate those insights.

Master data management

You’ll learn to work with both structure and unstructured data. The program provides you with the knowledge to manage, process, analyze, and visualize data at scale.

Connect with us

Want more information?

We’re here to answer your questions about this program, the application process, and more. Complete the form below to receive additional program details and speak with a member of our enrollment team. 

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Break Into The Industry

Break into data science

You don’t need a background in data science to have a future in it. A master’s designed for non-majors, the Align program can help you launch your new data career between two and three years.

Market outlook
Industry at a glance
Here's a look at current market trends and the career landscape.

Occupations

Cost of attendance

Tuition and financial aid

  • $60,000
    Tuition in USD

Estimated Total Tuition

This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2025-2026 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Select programs at select campuses offer additional scholarships of up to 25% off the listed price for domestic students studying on campus. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.

For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.

There are many ways to pay for your education, including scholarships, financial aid, and more. Connect with a financial counselor to learn about your options and make your dream a reality.

Visit tuition & financial aid
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