Master of Science in Data Science

Data science is the creation and application of powerful new methods to collect, curate, analyze, and make discoveries from large-scale data. Data are simply pieces of information, values or variables that can be used to describe a person, object, or other thing. In the digital era, human beings create data round the clock, through mediums such as smart phones, the internet, and social media. We generate over 2.5 quintillion bytes of data every day, and that number is constantly increasing. In fact, over 90% of data has been collected over the past five years. When learning about data science, one often hears the term 'big data.' Big data refers to data sets (collections of data) with massive amounts of complex information that are difficult to manipulate and understand using traditional data processing methods. Data science focuses on the concepts, methods, and applications for extracting meaning from big data and has become an emerging discipline in the 21st century.
At the University of Rochester, researchers employ data science to further everything from health analytics and cognitive science to business and artificial intelligence, and are using data science to develop new methods, tools, and infrastructures to better understand the world around them.
The master of science (MS) in data science program at the University of Rochester provides students with a strong background in the fundamentals and applications of data science, and is accredited by New York State. The 30 credit program is designed for students with a background in any field of science, engineering, mathematics, or business, and can be completed in two to three semesters of full-time study.

A bachelor's degree in a STEM field is preferred but not required. Prospective students should have undergraduate mathematics experience through basic calculus, but do not need college-level statistics or data analytics. Prospective students should also have some prior programming experience.
Academic Transcripts - In English or with a certified English translation. Unofficial transcripts or copies of in-process transcripts are acceptable.
Statement of Purpose
Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Three (3) Letters of Recommendation
Official English language proficiency test scores are required. TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo scores are acceptable.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - Applicants should have a minimum score of 7.
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) - Applicants should have minimum scores of 620 (paper-based test), 260 (computer-based test), or 100 (Internet test).