Program Overview

Master of Science in Data Science

The Master of Science in Data Science program at Boston College is designed to empower students to apply technical methods, employ an ethical lens, and utilize relevant management skills to address the needs of organizations and communities. The program provides interactive programming with small class sizes, incorporating discussions, group projects, and case studies.

About the Program

Our online M.S. in Data Science program provides a comprehensive education in data science, with a focus on ethical and responsible handling of data. The program consists of 12 courses, totaling 36 credits, and can be completed in 2 years on a part-time basis.

Curriculum

The curriculum includes:

• Introduction to Human-Centered Data Science
• Applied Mathematics for Data Science
• Programming for Data Science
• General Linear Models
• Database Systems and Data Preparation
• Multivariate Statistical Analysis
• Data Visualization and Storytelling
• Applied AI and Machine Learning
• Deep Learning and AI
• Natural Language Processing
• Capstone in Data Science I & II

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

• Approach data science with a human-centered mindset
• Apply ethical problem-framing and problem-solving methods
• Develop appropriate formalizations of project goals
• Develop data engineering and applied database management skills
• Code in industry-standard programming languages
• Apply statistical analysis, machine learning, and deep learning tools to real-world scenarios
• Interpret data and represent findings visually, orally, and in writing

Admission Requirements

• College-level Calculus and Statistics
• Personal statement (1,000-1,500 words)
• Two letters of recommendation
• Transcripts from all college/university study
• Resume
• English proficiency test (for international students)

Tuition and Aid

The Lynch School of Education and Human Development provides over $11.4 million in financial aid to students each year. The program is committed to making education affordable and invaluable.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the program can pursue careers in:

• Data Science
• Machine Learning Engineering
• Data Engineering
• Data Analysis/Consulting
• Business Intelligence Analysis
• Research Science

Industry Opportunities

The program prepares students for careers in various industries, including:

• Government
• Finance/Financial Services
• Non-profits
• Retail and E-commerce
• Education
• Healthcare
• Marketing
• Technology
• Entertainment

Faculty

The program is powered by a team of faculty from across Boston College, offering students a rich, interdisciplinary learning experience. The instructors bring deep expertise from a range of academic departments, including the Measurement, Evaluation, Statistics and Assessment Department, Computer Science and Mathematics Departments, and Business Analytics Department.

The Schiller Institute for Integrated Science and Society

The Schiller Institute fosters human-centered, transdisciplinary research on pressing issues related to energy, environment, and health. The institute will help facilitate the M.S. in Data Science seminar series and students' capstone projects, providing opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration.