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The Master of Science in Data Science and Statistics (MSDSS) at UT Dallas is an interdisciplinary STEM-designated graduate program jointly offered by the Department of Mathematical Sciences and the Department of Computer Science. It equips students with deep training in statistical modeling, machine learning, and computational techniquesfor solving real-world problems across business, industry, and government.
This program is designed for students who seek to master both the theoretical foundations and the practical toolsrequired in today’s data-driven economy. Emphasis is placed on statistical rigor, algorithmic thinking, and domain-aware data analysis.
Program Format & Duration
Full-time or part-time study
Duration: Typically 2 years full-time
Mode: On-campus (Richardson, TX)
STEM-designated (OPT-eligible for international students)
Fall and Spring intakes
GRE optional (recommended for international applicants or those with limited quantitative background)
Core Curriculum Components
The MSDSS curriculum integrates advanced statistics, computational data science, and machine learning, allowing students to specialize through electives in line with career goals.
Foundation Core (Required Courses)
Mathematical and Statistical Foundations
Statistical Inference
Applied Regression Analysis
Probability and Stochastic Processes
Linear Algebra and Matrix Methods
Computational and Data Science Tools
Data Science with R and Python
Machine Learning
Data Visualization and Communication
High-Performance Computing or Big Data Analytics
Capstone/Thesis
Students can choose between:
Capstone Project: Applied team project using real data
Master’s Thesis: Research-focused academic project under faculty supervision
Electives
Electives allow for tailored specialization in areas such as:
Time Series Analysis
Bayesian Inference
Optimization Techniques
Deep Learning and Neural Networks
Natural Language Processing
Bioinformatics
Business Analytics or Risk Management (in collaboration with other UTD departments)
The program emphasizes hands-on experience with data through classroom projects, research, and opportunities for real-world engagement.
Capstone Project
Conducted in the final semester
Involves team collaboration on industry-sponsored or faculty-advised projects
Focuses on solving complex data challenges using statistical modeling and modern computational tools
Culminates in a final presentation and report
Research Opportunities
Students may collaborate with faculty on NSF- and NIH-funded projects
Access to UT Dallas research centers such as:
Big Data Analytics Lab
Cyberinfrastructure Research Group
Center for Imaging and Surgical Innovation
Internships and Career Preparation
Located near Dallas’s business and tech hub, students gain access to internships with:
Fortune 500 companies
Regional startups
Healthcare and finance organizations
Support from the UTD Career Center includes:
Resume workshops
Technical interview preparation
Career fairs and employer networking events
Graduates of the MSDSS program are equipped with a rare combination of statistical depth and computational fluency, making them highly competitive in sectors that demand analytical decision-making and predictive modeling.
Career Outcomes
Graduates pursue roles such as:
Top Employers
Alumni of the program work at:
Further Study
Some graduates go on to:
Salary Overview-
Top Employers-
Geographic Placement-
Industry Sectors-
Career Growth and Progression-
What This Means for You-
Bachelor’s Degree: Hold a four‑year bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a related field from an accredited institution.Prerequisite Coursework: Complete undergraduate courses in Calculus I–III, Linear Algebra, and Probability & Statistics (or complete MATH 5303 if missing one semester). Transcripts: Upload unofficial (for application) from all institutions; official transcripts and certified uploads required upon admission. Personal Statement: Provide an essay detailing your motivation, academic background, goals, and program fit.Letters of Recommendation: Submit three recommendation letters from individuals familiar with your academic or professional abilities.GRE Scores: GRE is optional for MSDS; applicants may submit to strengthen their application.English Proficiency: International applicants must meet UTD’s English score requirements (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo) unless otherwise exempt.Application Fee: Pay the required application fee unless you qualify for a UTD Graduate Application Fee Waiver Program.Fellowship Consideration: Complete the application by Dec 15 (Fall) or Aug 31 (Spring) to be automatically considered for NSM McDermott Fellowships and assistantships. Admission Timelines: Apply by fall deadlines (spring entry rare for this specialization; no summer admission).Three‑Year Bachelor’s Degrees: UT Dallas accepts three-year baccalaureate degrees, evaluating them on a case-by-case basis for eligibility in graduate programs. They have their own credential evaluation which they do for $50.WES Evaluation: Official transcripts must be sent by your institution; WES or other credential evaluations are optional and not accepted as a substitute for official documents 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 Texas Dallas
