Program Overview

Master of Science in Data Science

The Master of Science in Data Science degree comprises 30-33 credits, distributed among applied statistics and analytical courses from a variety of departments.

Overview

• The program is offered by the College of Science.
• The campus where the program is offered is Blacksburg.

Admission

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• TOEFL IBT: 90
  • TOEFL reading sub-score: 20
  • TOEFL listening sub-score: 20
  • TOEFL speaking sub-score: 20
  • TOEFL writing sub-score: 20
• IELTS (TOEFL alternative): 6.5
• GRE: optional
• Letter(s) of recommendation: 3 required

Program Structure

• Prerequisite Course: 0-3 credits
  • Based on the admission committee's review of students' prior education and professional work experience, the following course may be required during the initial semester of enrollment:
    • CS 5054: Programming Models for Big Data
• Degree Core Requirements: 15 credits
  • ADS 5064: Foundations of Data Science (3 credits)
  • ADS 5224: Communication in Team-based Data Science (3 credits)
  • ADS/STAT 5525: Statistical Learning (3 credits)
  • ADS/STAT 5526: Statistical Learning (3 credits)
  • CS 5054: Programming Models for Big Data (3 credits)
• Elective Courses: 12 credits
  • Students can select courses from any courses offered at the institution.
  • Students will work with a faculty advisor to select courses.
• Capstone Requirement: 3 credits
  • ADS 5804: Capstone Experience I: Definition and Data (1 credit)
  • ADS 5814: Capstone Experience II: Implementation (2 credits)

Total Credits

• The total credits required for the program are 30-33 credits.