Data Science MS
Master of Science in Data Science
Is this program right for you?
Our world increasingly depends on data and computing to produce valuable knowledge and to make critical decisions. With the interdisciplinary Master of Science in Data Science from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, you will be uniquely prepared to meet this rapidly growing need in a variety of industries.
- This collaborative degree between the Statistics and Computer Sciences departments enables you to think critically, compute efficiently, model and analyze effectively and behave ethically with data
- Complete the 30-credit coursework in three core areas (statistics, computer sciences, and machine learning) to learn computational and statistical skills applicable to address data-rich problems across fields
- Our accelerated program prepares you to meet the evolving needs of today’s data-driven world or to pursue further education in related fields
Education that works for you
Develop the high-demand technical and statistical skills necessary to responsibly analyze and use data with the UW–Madison MS in Data Science.
Program type
Master’s degree
Degree awarded
Master of Science in Data Science
Commitment
1.5-2 years
Tuition
$1,600 per credit
Format
Accelerated
Face-to-face
Credits
30 graduate students
Admission terms
Program admits for Fall term
Offered by
STEM opt eligible
Yes
Supports F-1 Visa
Yes
Learn moreYour questions, answered
Have questions? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!
Admissions and events
Program requirements
Application materials required
October 6, 2026 from 12 p.m. to 12:45 p.m.
DSHB Program Pop-In: Faculty Spotlight
Get to know João Guassi Moreira and learn more about his work, expertise, and role in the Data Science in Human Behavior program.
Register now →October 21, 2026 from 6 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Career Outlook: MS Learning Analytics
Join Program Director Julia Rutledge to learn more about career options for students in the MS in Learning Analytics program.
Register now →November 10, 2026 from 12 p.m. to 12:45 p.m.
DSHB Program Pop-In: Application Assistance
Join Enrollment Coach Emma Davis for guidance on the application process, requirements, and tips for putting together a strong application.
Register now →November 11, 2026 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Program Overview: MS Learning Analytics & MS Education: Instructional Coaching
Join Julia Rutledge and Lisa Hebgen, the program directors for the MS in Learning Analytics and the MS in Education: Instructional Coaching for overviews of their programs. You’ll learn more about the curriculum, application process, and career paths, as well as similarities and differences between the two programs.
Register now →December 9, 2026 from 6 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Program Overview: MS Learning Analytics
Join Program Director Julia Rutledge to learn more about the MS in Learning Analytics program, including curriculum, application process, scholarships, and career paths.
Register now →January 19, 2027 from 12 p.m. to 12:45 p.m.
DSHB Program Pop-In: Data Industry Panel
Hear from professionals working in the data industry about their career paths, experiences, and the skills they use every day. Learn how a degree in Data Science in Human Behavior can prepare you for a range of career opportunities.
Register now →February 9, 2027 from 12 p.m. to 12:45 p.m.
DSHB Program Pop-In: International Student Experience
Learn what it’s like to pursue the Data Science in Human Behavior program as an international student. Hear firsthand about the experience, challenges, opportunities, and resources available to students.
Register now →February 10, 2027 from 6 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Career Outlook: MS Learning Analytics
Join Program Director Julia Rutledge to learn more about career options for students in the MS in Learning Analytics program.
Register now →March 10, 2027 from 6 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Student Panel: MS Learning Analytics
Join students from the MS in Learning Analytics program to learn about their experiences. Ask questions and see if the program is a good fit for you!
Register now →Results that work for you
Data Science MS
$112,590
Median market salary in 2024
Job titles
Top industries
Top employers
17.7%
Projected job growth from 2024 to 2034: 34%. Souce: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/math/data-scientists.htm
12th
UW-Madison graduate statistics programs were ranked 12th for Best Statistics Programs in the latest U.S. News & World Report
2026 U.S. News & World Report
15th
UW-Madison graduate computer sciences programs were ranked 15th for Best Computer Science Schools in the latest News & World Report
2026 U.S News & World Report
What you’ll learn
Get ahead in the dynamic field of data science with the Data Science MS program. Through a blend of theory and practice, you’ll master statistical methods, algorithms, and machine learning to extract knowledge from data and design interactive data visualizations.
- Statistical models and methods
- Algorithms
- Artificial Intelligence
- Machine learning
- Database management
- Data visualization
- Human-computer interaction

We're here to help
Talk with an enrollment coach or program contact today to get your questions answered.