Mathematical Data Science (MS) at University of Southern California

Programme overview

The MS in Mathematical Data Science combines the theoretical background behind machine learning and statistical methods with practical implementation skills. It suits people who hold or seek roles involving statistical methodology and want the underlying mathematical principles.

Department: Mathematics | Duration: At least 32 units | Study mode: full-time | Location: Los Angeles, CA, United States

What you will study

The core has five courses (19 units): Mathematics of Machine Learning, Mathematical Statistics for Data Science, Foundations of Mathematical Data Science, Statistical Consulting and Data Analysis, and Python for Data Science. Students add at least 12 units of electives, complete a practicum and at least 1 unit of Directed Research.

Official programme page

Application information

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Master of Accounting: students can start in the summer (Summer Intensive Program, mid-June to mid-August) or the fall; all students graduate at the end of the spring semester in mid-May.

Master of Accounting (MAcc): application opens August 7, 2026; international applicants and priority deadline January 10, 2027; domestic non-accounting majors (summer start) April 1, 2027; domestic accounting majors (fall start) May 1, 2027; application fee $120.

Public Diplomacy (MPD): application deadline January 15, 2027; the USC Graduate Admission Application opens October 1, 2026.

Online Executive Master of Health Administration: application fee $105.

Apply through the official page: https://admission.usc.edu/

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