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The Master of Science in Data Science – Residential Program at Indiana University Bloomington is a flexible, STEM-designated graduate program that equips students with the interdisciplinary knowledge and technical skillset needed to thrive in today’s data-centric world. Housed within the Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering, the program merges computer science, statistics, machine learning, and domain applications with an emphasis on ethical data use.
Designed for both recent graduates and working professionals, the residential MSDS offers strong industry connections, customizable learning paths, and access to cutting-edge research at one of the leading research universities in the Midwest.
Program Format & Duration
Full-time or part-time, on-campus in Bloomington
Can be completed in 1.5 to 2 years (30 credit hours)
Fall and Spring admissions available
STEM-designated (eligible for OPT extension)
GRE optional
Core Curriculum Components
The MSDS curriculum combines computational foundations, statistical modeling, and real-world applications, while allowing for specialization through electives and project work.
Core Areas (Required Courses – 15 credits)
Foundations of Data Science
Introduction to Data Science
Applied Machine Learning
Data Mining or Advanced Database Concepts
Mathematics & Statistics
Statistical Inference
Linear Algebra or Applied Probability
Ethics and Professionalism
Ethical and Social Impacts of Data Science
Data Governance and Security
Elective Pathways (15 credits)
Students customize their degree based on personal interests and career goals through one of the following specialization tracks:
Intelligent Systems Engineering
Cybersecurity and Privacy
Precision Health & Bioinformatics
Network and Applied Data Science
Data Analytics and Visualization
Business Analytics
Sample electives:
Neural Networks and Deep Learning
Natural Language Processing
Big Data Applications
Visual Analytics
Cloud Computing
Health Informatics
Computational Social Science
Capstone or Thesis
Students may complete:
Capstone Project: A team-based or individual data science application solving a real-world problem
Master’s Thesis: A research-focused investigation under faculty supervision for those considering a PhD
IU Bloomington emphasizes hands-on, interdisciplinary learning, connecting theory to practice in every semester through labs, applied courses, and research centers.
Capstone & Projects
Students engage in projects sourced from:
Corporate partners like Cummins, Eli Lilly, and Salesforce
IU’s own research centers and academic departments
Nonprofits and government agencies
Capstone deliverables often include:
End-to-end machine learning pipelines
Dashboards and visualizations
Research papers or white papers
Presentations to external stakeholders
Internships & Industry Engagement
Career support through the Luddy Career Services Office
Internship opportunities during summer semesters
On-campus career fairs and tech meetups
Guest lectures from IU alumni and Fortune 500 leaders
Research Opportunities
Students may collaborate with:
IU Network Science Institute (IUNI)
CNS-NRT Program (National Research Traineeship)
Health Informatics Lab
Data to Insight Center
Research areas include:
Computational epidemiology
Data ethics and fairness
AI for education or justice
Visual storytelling with big data
Graduates from IU’s residential MSDS program are prepared to take on high-demand technical roles or pursue doctoral-level studies. The program is widely respected for producing data professionals who are not only technically strong but also ethically and strategically oriented.
Career Outcomes
Common job titles:
Top Hiring Sectors
Graduate & Research Pathways
Many graduates advance to:
Salary Overview-
Top Employers-
Geographic Placement-
Industry Sectors-
Career Growth and Progression-
What This Means for You-
Bachelor’s Degree: Hold a three- or four‑year bachelor's degree from any accredited institution.Minimum GPA: Maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 (B); most doctoral applicants exceed 3.5.Transcripts: Upload transcripts from all postsecondary institutions—official ones required upon admission.GRE Scores: Optional—GRE is not required for admission. Prerequisite Semesters (3-year degrees): Applicants with three-year degrees must provide at least five semesters of academic transcripts. English Proficiency (International Applicants): Submit TOEFL (≥100 iBT), IELTS (≥7.0), or Duolingo (≥130) unless eligible for waiver. Application Deadlines: Fall entry: Apply by January 1 (funding considered through December 1) Spring entry: Apply by September 1 (programs accept spring applications)Data AnalystData ScientistBusiness AnalystStatisticianStatistical ProgrammerSAS ProgrammerMachine Learning EngineerDeep Learning EngineerAI ResearcherData EngineerBI DeveloperData ArchitectAnalytics ConsultantAdvisory ConsultantQuantitative AnalystRisk AnalystOperations AnalystMarketing AnalystResearch ScientistInsights AnalystForecasting AnalystHealthcare Data AnalystFinancial Data AnalystProduct Analyst
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Indiana University Bloomington
