Master’s in Data Science Online

Master of Science
Picture of 3 students working at a computer at the WPI data science innovation lab

WPI's pioneering Master of Science in Data Science online program prepares you to derive new insights from data and articulate these findings into innovative solutions for how we live, work, and interact with the world around us. 

Reflection

Equipped with this degree, you’ll master database management and analysis techniques such as machine learning and data-mining algorithms. You’ll also gain a deeper knowledge of statistics and will have used a rich diversity of data-analysis software. WPI’s interdisciplinary approach rounds out your degree while developing your interpersonal and storytelling skills alongside technical mastery. In 2022, Fortune magazine ranked WPI fifth in their list of Best Online Master’s in Data Science Programs

In addition to core courses that teach data science essentials, you’ll can customize the program with specializations in Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning or Big Data. As an added benefit, built-in bridge courses mean there is no specific undergraduate degree needed for admission—and the GRE is not required. 

  • Deepen your skills in cutting-edge AI courses on deep learning, machine learning, reinforcement learning, social media analytics, natural language processing—including ChatGPT—and more

  • Use industry-leading tools including MySQL, SAS, and Tableau 

  • Learn from world-class faculty who are scholarly and industry leaders in their fields 

  • Work on real-world projects that are industry-supported and industry-mentors—equipping you with experience to secure a professional role (or advance an existing one) 

  • Take advantage of bridge courses which allows for no specific undergraduate degree to enroll

  • Go beyond an MS degree with one-on-one directed studies or prepare to eventually pursue a PhD

No application fees or GRE required!

A picture of people in front of informant panels
#5

Best Online Master’s in Data Science Programs

(Fortune, 2022)
#4

National Universities Where Grads Are Paid Well

U.S. News & World Report (2021)
Top 100

Best Graduate Schools in the U.S.

U.S. News & World Report

Curriculum for Master of Data Science Online

The Master of Science in Data Science program online begins with a foundational track required for students without appropriate math and/or programming experience. After completing core courses, students can choose from three specializations in Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning, Big Data Analytics & Management, or Business Intelligence. 

To earn a master's in data science online, you are required to take DS 501—Introduction to Data Science—core coursework in four areas, and electives totaling 30 credits. 

Foundation (6 credits) 

  • CS 5007 Introduction to Programming Concepts, Data Structures, and Algorithms 

  • DS 517 Math Foundations for DS 

Design Core (15 credits) 

  • DS 501 Introduction to Data Science 

  • DS 502 Statistical Methods for Data Science 

  • Select one: 

    • CS 542 Database Management System 
    • DS 503 Big Data Management 

  • Select one:

    • MIS 584 Business Intelligence

    • MKT 568 Data Mining Business Applications 

  • Select one: 

    • CS 548 Knowledge Discovery and Data Mining 

    • CS 539 Machine Learning 

    • DS 504 Big Data Analytics 

Elective Courses (6 credits) 

  • Select two electives from the following focus areas: 

    • Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning Focus 

    • Big Data Analytics and Management Focus

    • Business Intelligence 

Capstone Experience (3 credits) 

  • DS 598 Data Science Capstone Experience 

Make the Most of Your WPI Experience 

  • Current WPI students, even those whose undergraduate degree is not in computer science, may explore a BS/MS program option to gain both degrees in an accelerated plan. 

What Can I Do with a Master’s in Data Science?

Data Scientist
  • 15% job growth from 2019 to 2029 
  • $122,840 national average salary 

In-demand skills: 

  • Distributed computing 

  • Predictive modeling 

  • Math, stats, machine learning 

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 

Data Analyst
  • 6% job growth from 2019 to 2029 
  • $88,550 national average salary 

In-demand skills: 

  • Spreadsheet tools 

  • Database systems 

  • Communication & visualization 

Data Architect
  • 10% job growth from 2019 to 2029 

  • $97,350 national average salary 

In-demand skills: 

  • Data warehousing solutions 

  • Database architecture 

  • Systems development 

Data Engineer
  • 10% job growth from 2019 to 2029 

  • $93,750 national average salary 

In-demand skills: 

  • Database systems 

  • Data modeling & ETL tools 

  • Data APIs 

Business Analyst
  • 7% job growth from 2019 to 2029 

  • $90,920 national average salary 

In-demand skills: 

  • Data visualization tools 

  • Business intelligence 

  • Data modeling 

 

Database Administrator
  • 10% job growth from 2019 to 2029 

  • $93,750 national average salary 

In-demand skills: 

  • Backup & recovery 

  • Data modeling & design 

  • Database systems 

Meet Our Faculty

Elke A. Rundensteiner
Elke A. Rundensteiner
Professor, Computer Science

As founding Director of the interdisciplinary Data Science program here at WPI, I take great pleasure in doing all in my power to support the Data Science community in all its facets from research collaborations, new educational initiatives to our innovative Graduate Qualifying projects at the graduate level.

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