Enter OTP
The Online Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS) at the University of Virginia is a flexible, part-time, and STEM-designated graduate program designed for working professionals seeking to advance their careers in data science. Offered through UVA’s School of Data Science, the program delivers the same rigorous curriculum and faculty expertise as the residential format—but in a fully online, asynchronous environment tailored for career-aligned learners.
With its blend of statistical modeling, machine learning, data engineering, ethics, and communication, UVA’s MSDS Online equips students with both the technical skills and critical thinking necessary to solve real-world problems at scale.
Program Format & Duration
100% online and part-time
Typically completed in 24 months
STEM-designated (OPT eligible for international students residing in the U.S.)
Fall and spring start options
Asynchronous delivery with periodic synchronous sessions and team collaboration
No GRE required
Core Curriculum Components
The MSDS Online program follows a 30-credit curriculum, mirroring the structure of the residential version while accommodating flexible learning schedules.
Core Modules
Foundations of Data Science
Programming for Data Science (Python)
Linear Models
Statistical Learning
Data Engineering
Big Data Systems
Applied Machine Learning
Supervised and unsupervised learning techniques
Model evaluation and deployment
Neural networks and deep learning basics
Ethics and Communication
Data Ethics and Responsible AI
Communicating Data for Impact
Technical writing and visual storytelling
Capstone Project
Real-world, team-based data science project
Begins mid-program and continues into the final term
Projects often sourced from industry partners, nonprofits, or UVA research initiatives
Though fully online, UVA’s MSDS program incorporates applied, team-based, and project-driven learning to ensure strong practical outcomes.
Capstone Project
Teams collaborate virtually on a year-long capstone
Projects address business, healthcare, environmental, or public sector data challenges
Deliverables include technical models, visualizations, and stakeholder-ready presentations
Past capstone partners include: Capital One, MITRE, NASA, nonprofit foundations, and academic research labs
Collaborative Environment
Students are grouped into learning cohorts that work together across courses
Periodic live sessions support project collaboration, technical Q&A, and faculty interaction
Emphasis on agile teamwork, peer learning, and real-time problem-solving
Technical Skill Development
Students gain proficiency in:
Programming: Python, R
ML Tools: Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, Keras
Data Platforms: SQL, Hadoop, Spark, AWS
Collaboration: GitHub, Jupyter, Docker, cloud pipelines
Visualization: Tableau, D3.js, Seaborn
Graduates of the UVA Online MSDS program are prepared to lead in data-driven roles across sectors, leveraging their strong analytical skills, ethical judgment, and business-aligned communication capabilities.
Career Outcomes
Graduates pursue roles such as:
Top Hiring Industries
Graduate Study & Advancement
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 accredited bachelor’s degree prior to matriculation.Prerequisite Courses: Complete (or finish before matriculation) calculus (two-course sequence), linear/matrix algebra, introductory statistics, and introductory programming; UVA offers a free online linear algebra prerequisite course.Transcripts: Upload unofficial transcripts from all post-secondary institutions; non-English transcripts require NACES course-by-course evaluation, with official transcripts due after admission.Résumé: Submit a résumé highlighting academic, professional, and experiential background.Short-Answer Responses: Answer three prompts on goals, balancing work/life, and personal strengths (150–250 words each). Standardized Tests: No GRE or GMAT scores are accepted or required. English Proficiency (International): Self-report TOEFL (iBT ≥ 100) or IELTS (overall ≥ 7) if your undergraduate degree was not taught in English; official scores are required if admitted.Application Fee: Pay a non-refundable $85 fee, with waivers available for U.S. citizens/permanent residents (eligible groups) and qualifying international applicants.No Letters or Personal Statement: No letters of recommendation or personal/statement of purpose essays are required. Three-Year Bachelor’s Degrees: MSU requires a U.S.-equivalent four-year bachelor’s degree, and applicants with a three-year degree must obtain a formal department waiver to be considered WES Evaluation: A WES or NACES-approved credential evaluation is required for international applicants seeking a waiver or submitting a foreign degree to demonstrate U.S. equivalency 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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