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The Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS) at the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities is a STEM-designated, interdisciplinary graduate program that integrates statistics, computer science, and applied mathematics to prepare students for high-level careers in data-driven fields. Housed within the College of Science and Engineering, the program leverages the strengths of multiple departments—including Computer Science, Statistics, and Mathematics—to deliver a curriculum that balances theoretical depth with real-world application.
Located in Minneapolis–St. Paul, a growing hub for tech, healthcare, and finance, the program provides access to a thriving industry network and cutting-edge research.
Program Format & Duration
Full-time or part-time options available
Typical completion time: 2 years (full-time)
STEM-designated (OPT eligible for international students)
Fall admission only
Thesis or project track options available
Core Curriculum Components
The MSDS program requires a minimum of 31 credit hours, consisting of core courses, electives, and a culminating experience (plan A: thesis, or plan B: project or additional coursework).
Core Courses (15 credits)
Students complete one course in each of the following five foundational areas:
Statistics
STAT 5101: Theory of Statistics I
STAT 5302: Applied Regression Analysis
Algorithms
CSCI 5521: Introduction to Machine Learning
CSCI 5611: Artificial Intelligence or equivalent
Data Infrastructure
CSCI 5115: User Interface Design
CSCI 5708: Advanced Data Management
Data Mining & Modeling
CSCI 5523: Data Mining
STAT 5601: Time Series Analysis
Data Communication
STAT 5303: Design of Experiments
Elective in visualization or technical communication
Electives (6+ credits)
Students may choose graduate electives across:
Deep learning
Optimization
Natural language processing
Data visualization
Bioinformatics
Engineering or business analytics
Courses can be selected from Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Industrial Engineering, or Public Health.
Culminating Experience
Choose one of the following:
Plan A (Thesis): Research-based, ideal for students pursuing PhD or R&D careers
Plan B (Project): Team-based or individual applied data science project in collaboration with faculty, industry, or research centers
The University of Minnesota MSDS program emphasizes hands-on data work, collaborative problem-solving, and research exposure across disciplines.
Capstone / Thesis / Project
Students complete a major applied project or thesis addressing real-world data challenges, such as:
Healthcare outcome modeling
Social network analysis
Marketing optimization
Climate or environmental data analytics
Industrial or engineering simulations
Projects often leverage partnerships with:
3M, Medtronic, Optum, Target, Cargill, General Mills, and state agencies.
Research Opportunities
Students may engage in research with:
Minnesota Supercomputing Institute (MSI)
Institute for Health Informatics (IHI)
School of Public Health
Data Science Initiative at UMN
Research domains include:
Genomics and bioinformatics
Transportation analytics
Educational data mining
Computational neuroscience
Agricultural informatics
Technical Skill Development
Students gain proficiency in:
Python, R, SQL
Hadoop, Spark, AWS, GCP
TensorFlow, Keras, Scikit-learn
Git, Docker, Jupyter Notebooks
Power BI, Tableau, Matplotlib, ggplot2
Graduates of the University of Minnesota’s MSDS program are recognized for their strong analytical foundations, technical skills, and cross-functional flexibility. They are prepared to solve complex data challenges in business, government, healthcare, academia, and beyond.
Career Outcomes
Graduates pursue roles such as:
Industries Hiring MSDS Graduates
Graduate Study & Research Pathways
Students interested in advanced academic careers often pursue:
Salary Overview-
Top Employers-
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What This Means for You-
Bachelor’s Degree: Possess a four-year bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in computer science, math, statistics, engineering, natural sciences, or a related field.Minimum GPA: Have a minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.5 (or equivalent), though strong applicants showing potential may be accepted with lower GPAs.Prerequisite Coursework: Demonstrate proficiency with two semesters calculus, one semester multivariable calculus, one semester linear algebra, one semester statistics, and two semesters programming/data structures—all via coursework or documented equivalent experience. Transcripts: Upload unofficial or official transcripts from all institutions attended at time of application; official versions required if admitted. Personal Statement: Submit a statement of purpose (~700 words) outlining your academic and career goals, relevant experience, and how you satisfy any prerequisite areas.Curriculum Vitae (CV): Provide a CV listing your education, professional/research experience, and mapping coursework or experience to prerequisite areas.Letters of Recommendation: Submit letters via the online system (number not specified, though often 2–3).English Proficiency (International Applicants): Provide TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or equivalent scores unless eligible for waiver. GRE Scores: GRE scores are not accepted or required and will be disregarded if submitted.Application Deadline: Apply by March 1 (11:59 PM CST) for fall admission—the only intake per year.Three-Year Bachelor’s Degrees: MSU generally requires a U.S.-equivalent four-year bachelor’s degree, meaning three-year degrees typically do not qualify unless you obtain a formal department waiverWES Evaluation: MSU requires official transcripts directly from your institution and does not accept WES or other credential evaluation reports in lieu of sealed transcripts, even for international applicants 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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University of Minnesota Twin Cities
