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The Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS) at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) is a STEM-designated, interdisciplinary graduate program that prepares students to manage, analyze, and extract actionable insights from complex and high-volume data. With its strong foundation in mathematics, computer science, and business analytics, the program emphasizes both technical proficiency and real-world applications.
WPI’s MSDS program is designed for students seeking to build a career in industries where data drives decision-making—from healthcare and finance to cybersecurity and manufacturing. Students benefit from WPI’s project-based learning model, tight faculty mentorship, and access to cutting-edge tools and research.
Program Format & Duration
Full-time or part-time, on-campus in Worcester, MA
Can be completed in 1.5–2 years (33 credit hours)
STEM-designated (international students eligible for up to 3 years OPT)
No GRE required
Core Curriculum Components
The curriculum blends theory and practice across computer science, statistics, and business intelligence, enabling students to specialize in areas aligned with their career goals.
Core Courses (15 credits)
Students complete five foundational courses, typically from the following:
Data Access and Management
Data Mining
Machine Learning
Statistical Methods for Data Science
Big Data Management
Ethics in Data Science
Electives (15 credits)
Students choose from a broad array of electives spanning technical, application-based, and domain-specific topics:
Artificial Intelligence
Deep Learning
Natural Language Processing
Data Visualization
Cloud and Distributed Computing
Business Intelligence
Biomedical Data Science
IoT and Cyber-Physical Systems
Electives may be selected from departments such as Computer Science, Mathematical Sciences, Engineering, and The Business School.
Capstone or Thesis (3 credits)
Students can choose between:
Capstone Project: Applied team or individual project using real-world data to solve industry or research problems
Master’s Thesis: A research-oriented experience involving original work under faculty supervision
True to WPI’s project-based learning philosophy, the MSDS program emphasizes practical experience and hands-on problem-solving.
Capstone Project
Typically completed in the final semester
Students collaborate with faculty or industry partners to deliver complete data science solutions
Final deliverables include a technical report and presentation
Internships and Industry Projects
Access to WPI’s Career Development Center and strong corporate ties in the Northeast
Students are encouraged to engage in summer internships or semester-based projects with companies such as:
IBM
Raytheon
Dell EMC
Pfizer
Fidelity Investments
UMass Memorial Health
Research Opportunities
Students can participate in research through:
WPI Data Science Program Lab
Faculty-led projects in bioinformatics, smart cities, robotics, cybersecurity, and climate modeling
NSF- and NIH-funded projects across interdisciplinary teams
WPI MSDS graduates are recognized for their strong analytical thinking, programming skills, and project leadership. They are employed across various industries and roles that demand scalable, ethical, and intelligent data solutions.
Career Outcomes
Common job titles include:
Top Hiring Sectors
Graduate Study & Research Pathways
Some students continue into:
Salary Overview-
Top Employers-
Geographic Placement-
Industry Sectors-
Career Growth and Progression-
What This Means for You-
Bachelor’s Degree: Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution before matriculation.Transcripts: Upload unofficial transcripts (and official plus English versions for international applicants) from all postsecondary institutions with application; official ones due upon enrollment.Statement of Purpose: Submit a statement of purpose outlining your academic/professional background, goals, and program fit.Résumé/CV: Provide a current résumé or CV detailing education, work, and quantitative/computational skills.Letters of Recommendation: Supply two to three letters of recommendation from individuals able to assess your graduate‑study readiness.GRE: Not required for this programEnglish Proficiency (International): Provide TOEFL (≥84 iBT), IELTS (≥7), or Duolingo (≥115) scores unless exempt via prior degree in EnglishApplication Fee: Pay the $70 application fee (waived for online programs, WPI alumni, employees, and others).Rolling Admission: Apply anytime (rolling), though early submission by Feb 1 (fall) or Nov 1 (spring) is recommended for funding and deadlines.Three-Year Bachelor’s Degrees: WPI requires an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution, and while it doesn’t specify three-year degree policies outright, admissions decisions will be based on credentials submitted (official transcripts required) .WES/Credential Evaluations: WPI does not accept WES or other credential evaluations in place of official transcripts; all academic records must be sent directly from the institution 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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Worcester Polytechnic Institute
