Program Overview

Introduction to the MS in Data Science Program

The Tufts online Master of Science in Data Science is designed for professionals who want to build deep analytical expertise and turn data into meaningful, actionable insights. Through a flexible, application-focused curriculum, students gain the technical and strategic skills needed to support high-level decision-making across industries such as healthcare, climate science, and supply chain management.

Program Benefits

• Flexible Online Learning: Complete the degree on a schedule with fully online, asynchronous courses designed for working professionals balancing career and personal responsibilities.
• Real-World, Data-Centered Curriculum: Master tools and methods used in data science, including machine learning, predictive modeling, and data visualization. Coursework is regularly updated to reflect emerging technologies and sector-specific applications.
• Career-Focused Outcomes: Develop the skills to step into roles such as data scientist, business analyst, or machine learning engineer. Graduates are equipped to support critical decision-making and innovation in high-growth fields.
• No GRE Required: Applicants with a bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution are not required to submit GRE scores.
• Join a Leading Research Community: Join a university known for interdisciplinary collaboration, public impact, and academic excellence. Benefit from Tufts’ connections to industry, policy, and research networks.

Data Science Curriculum

The Tufts online MS in Data Science program equips students with the skills to excel in data-centric problem-solving across various industries. Students master data mining, machine learning, Python, and systems analysis, becoming efficient problem solvers through hands-on data interpretation and communication.

Core Requirements

• CS119 Big Data: Deals with techniques for collecting, processing, analyzing, and acting on data at internet scale. This course introduces the latest techniques and infrastructures developed for big data.
• CS135 Introduction to Machine Learning: Provides an overview of methods by which computers can learn from data or experience and make decisions accordingly.
• EE 104 Probabilistic System Analysis: Advanced analysis in probabilistic systems with a strong emphasis on theoretical methods.
• MATH 166 Statistics: A course on mathematical statistics, emphasizing theory and computations.

Electives

Category A:

• CS 115 Database Systems: Explores the fundamental concepts of database management systems.
• CS 116 Introduction to Security: Delves into the fundamentals of cybersecurity.
• CS 120 Web Programming and Engineering: Discusses the limits of current web technologies and the similarities and differences between web and software engineering.

Category B:

• CS 138 Reinforcement Learning: Focuses on agents that must learn, plan, and act in complex, non-deterministic environments.

Category C:

• CS 131 Artificial Intelligence: Focuses on the history, theory, and computational methods of artificial intelligence.
• CS 160 Algorithms: An introduction to the study of algorithms, exploring strategies that include divide-and-conquer, greedy methods, and dynamic programming.

Capstone Project

• DSO 293/294 Capstone: A two-course, hands-on, and project-based culmination to the program, where students apply data science and analytic principles to the solution of a real-world problem.

Data Science Career Outlook

Data science job opportunities are expected to grow 35 percent by 2032, and the average salary of U.S. data science master’s degree holders exceeds $100,000.

Career Opportunities

The Tufts Master of Science in Data Science program prepares students to pursue better job opportunities and research projects, advance within their current organization, and increase their earning potential. Potential job titles and average salaries include:

• Data science manager: $146,695
• Database architect: $125,525
• Machine learning engineer: $119,197
• Analytics manager: $106,188
• Data scientist: $100,942
• Data engineer: $97,330
• Statistician: $90,144
• Database administrator: $79,454

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I study data science?

The demand for data science jobs is high, and many MSDS online graduates earn over $100,000 a year within a few years.

What can I do with a data science degree?

As a graduate of the Tufts MSDS online program, students can choose from numerous career paths depending on their interests.

What background or prerequisites do you need to apply to the MS in Data Science?

The MS in Data Science program welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds. While a bachelor’s degree is required, there are no specific prerequisites for academic majors.

What are the application requirements for the online MSDS?

The application requirements include:

• Application fee
• Resume/CV
• Personal statement
• Transcripts
• Three letters of recommendation
• Official GRE scores (if applicable)
• Official TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo test scores (if applicable)
• Portfolio (optional)

How much does an online master's degree in data science cost?

The tuition rate for School of Engineering graduate-level courses is $1,765 per credit.

Are scholarships available for online MSDS students?

Yes, Tufts University offers a range of scholarships and financial aid options to support students in their academic pursuits.

What support services are available for Tufts online MSDS students?

As a student in the Tufts online MSDS program, students have access to a comprehensive array of support services designed to enhance their learning experience and facilitate their academic success.

Featured Data Science Faculty

• Martin Allen: Associate Teaching Professor, Director of Online Programs, Department of Computer Science.
• Brian Aull: Professor of the Practice, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.
• Alva Couch: Associate Professor, Department of Computer Science.
• Jivko Sinapov: Associate Professor, Department of Computer Science.