Program Overview

Overview of the Master of Science in Data Science Program

The Master of Science in Data Science program at Texas A&M University is an interdisciplinary degree that harnesses the strengths of multiple departments in two colleges to provide students with a solid foundation in mathematics, statistics, computer science, and machine learning. The program is administered jointly with the Texas A&M Institute of Data Science and is designed to prepare graduates for exciting careers in data science, consulting, financial services, governmental, healthcare, pharmaceutical, marketing, and technology fields.

Program Details

• The program is offered by the Departments of Computer Science and Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Mathematics, and Statistics from the College of Engineering and the College of Arts and Sciences.
• The curriculum core courses include:
  • Mathematical Foundations for Data Science
  • Statistical Foundations for Data Science
  • Data Mining and Analysis
  • Databases and Computational Tools Used in Big Data
• The Department of Statistics is the curricular home of the program, and the Texas A&M Institute of Data Science (TAMIDS) will coordinate the joint governance of the degree by the participating departments.

Course Plan

• The student’s advisory committee, in consultation with the student, will develop the proposed degree plan.
• The degree plan must be completed and filed with the Graduate and Professional School prior to the deadline imposed by the student’s college or interdisciplinary degree program, if applicable, and no later than 90 days prior to the date of the final oral examination or thesis defense.
• A student should submit the degree plan using the online Document Processing Submission System.
• Additional coursework may be added to the approved degree plan by petition if it is deemed necessary by the advisory committee to correct deficiencies in the student’s academic preparation.

Application Materials

• Statement of Purpose: Applicants should submit a statement of purpose to describe the reasons for pursuing graduate study, academic and professional interests and goals, and experiences preparing for graduate study.
• CV/Resume: The CV/resume should outline the work history, educational background, relevant publications and patents, and research experience, and also include a section about the relevant courses taken and associated grades.
• Transcripts: Submit a non-official transcript. Official transcripts are required only if you are admitted and intend to enroll.
• Recommendation Letters: Provide the contact information of your referees. An email request will automatically be sent to each referee on your behalf.
• GRE (optional): You can self-report GRE scores. The GRE requirement is waived for all applicants for Fall 2023 admissions.
• TOEFL and other language requirements: International applicants must have a satisfactory score on the TOEFL or IELTS exams.
• Other supporting documents (optional): If you have publications or other documents that may show your qualification to the program, you may submit them as additional materials.
• Application fee: The application fee is nonrefundable and must be paid at the time of submission.

Program Quick Facts

• Average Mean Wages for Data Scientists: $105,980
• Scholarships: All applicants are considered for scholarships that carry in-state tuition
• Academic Tracks: 4 (Computer Science and Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Math, and Statistics)
• Dual Degree Option: No
• Thesis or Dissertation Required: No
• Main Method of Study: Face-to-Face
• Required Tests: None