MS Applied Data Science at University of Chicago

Programme overview

The MS in Applied Data Science prepares students to work at the intersection of data science, machine learning and AI through applied coursework and real-world projects. It is offered in-person in downtown Chicago (full- or part-time) and online, and the in-person degree is STEM/OPT eligible.

Faculty: Physical Sciences Division, Data Science Institute | Department: Data Science Institute | Duration: 12-course track: 4-5 quarters full-time, up to 6 quarters part-time; 18-course thesis track: 2 years (21 months) | Intake: Autumn 2027 | Study mode: full-time | Location: Chicago, IL, United States

What you will study

The 12-course track comprises 6 core courses, 4 electives and a 2-quarter industry-partner Capstone, plus a required Career Seminar. The 18-course thesis track adds more electives, two independent studies and a master's thesis. Courses include Machine Learning I, Deep Learning and Generative AI, Machine Learning Operations, Natural Language Processing and Bayesian Machine Learning.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Programme-specific: two letters of recommendation (at least one preferably from a supervisor or internship supervisor), resume, candidate statement, and transcripts from all prior institutions. Competitive in-person applicants typically have at least 1 year of full-time work experience and relevant internships; online applicants need 2+ years of full-time experience. International applicants not meeting the waiver criteria need TOEFL iBT 102 (prior scale) or 5 (current scale) or IELTS 7. Application fee $90. In-person deadlines for Autumn 2027: November 9, 2026; December 7, 2026; January 26, 2027 (international, visa sponsorship); March 4, 2027; May 6, 2027; June 23, 2027 (final).

Intake: Autumn 2027

Duration: 12-course track: 4-5 quarters full-time, up to 6 quarters part-time; 18-course thesis track: 2 years

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