The M.S. in Data Science Online at Tufts University is a 32-credit master’s program that prepares students to use statistics, data visualization, machine learning, and computational methods to analyze data and generate insight. The program is delivered 100% online and is designed for students who want rigorous graduate training in data science with the flexibility to study remotely.

Jointly administered by the Department of Computer Science and the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, the program includes 10 courses, including a two-course Capstone Project. Students may pursue the degree full time or part time. The average completion time is 12 to 24 months.

Who is this Program For?

The M.S. in Data Science Online is designed for students who want advanced preparation in data analysis, machine learning, data visualization, statistics, optimization, information theory, and applied data science in a flexible online format. Applicants are expected to have a Bachelor of Science degree in a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics field. Applicants with bachelor’s degrees in non-STEM fields may begin with the Certificate in Data Science, which can provide a sample of the program and additional preparation before master’s-level study.

The program may be a strong fit for students preparing for data-focused roles in technology, engineering, science, business, health, research, or other fields where data analysis and communication are central.

Application Requirements

Application Fee
Resume/CV
Personal Statement
Transcripts
Three letters of recommendation
Official GRE scores (if applicable)
- GRE General Test scores not required for applicants who will have received a degree from an institution located in the U.S. or Canada by time of enrollment. GRE scores required for all other applicants.
Official TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo test scores (if applicable)
Portfolio (optional)

What Will You Study?

Students complete a 10-course curriculum that builds technical depth in statistics, machine learning, data visualization, and applied data science. The program includes a two-course Capstone Project, in which students propose a substantial data science project, carry it through to completion, and present their work to faculty and peers.

Required courses include:

Probabilistic Systems Analysis
Introduction to Machine Learning and Data Mining
Big Data

Coursework and applied learning may address topics such as:

Statistics
Machine learning
Data visualization
Optimization
Statistical decision-making

Information theory
Data-centric problem solving
Communication with technical and nontechnical audiences
Interdisciplinary applications of data science

About the Data Science Program

The M.S. in Data Science Online is jointly administered by Tufts’ Department of Computer Science and Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. This structure gives students access to faculty and coursework across computing, engineering, machine learning, data systems, visualization, signal processing, software systems, networks, and applied data analysis.

Faculty expertise connected to the program includes artificial intelligence, machine learning, reinforcement learning, data science, software systems engineering, performance analysis, system, network, and data management, computational perception, robotics, human-computer interaction, and human-robot interaction.

Why Study Data Science Online at Tufts?

Fully Online Graduate Study

The program is delivered 100% online, allowing students to complete a Tufts graduate degree remotely. This format can support students who need flexibility because of work, location, or personal commitments.

Applied Capstone Experience

The two-course Capstone Project gives students the opportunity to define a substantial data science problem, complete the project, and present their results to faculty and peers. This experience helps students connect graduate coursework to applied data science practice.

Joint Computer Science and Engineering Foundation

Because the program is jointly administered by Computer Science and Electrical and Computer Engineering, students build skills across software, systems, infrastructure, statistics, machine learning, computation, and applied analysis.

Flexible Enrollment Options

Students may pursue the program full time or part time.. This flexibility helps students plan their graduate study around professional and personal responsibilities.

What Can You Do With an M.S. in Data Science Online?

Graduates may pursue analytical, technical, research, or product-focused roles in areas such as data science, machine learning, data analysis, data engineering, statistical modeling, data visualization, applied research, software systems, business analytics, health analytics, computational science, and technology consulting. Career outcomes vary based on a student’s background, focus area, technical experience, internship or co-op experience, and professional goals.

Possible paths may include:

Data scientist
Machine learning engineer
Data analyst
Data engineer
Statistical modeler

Data visualization specialist
Applied research analyst
Business analytics specialist
Health analytics specialist
Technology consultant

What is the Career Outlook?

Data science skills are relevant across analytics, machine learning, artificial intelligence, business intelligence, research, and data-driven decision-making.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, data scientists had a median annual wage of $112,590 in May 2024. Employment in this occupation is projected to grow 34 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Curvature of the planet with illuminated network nodes

Average Salary: $108K+

Projected Job Growth (2022-2032): 35%

*Sources: Average salary and projected job growth statistics are from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook.

What is the Capstone Project?

The Online M.S. in Data Science includes a two-course, 6-credit capstone project that serves as the culminating applied learning experience for the degree. Students use the capstone to apply data science and analytic principles to a real-world problem.

In the first course, students perform requirements analysis, review available data sources, propose a solution strategy, and begin their analysis. In the second course, students complete the analysis process and produce a final report summarizing the data gathered, analytic results, lessons learned, and opportunities for future study. The capstone gives students the opportunity to connect graduate-level data science concepts with hands-on, project-based work.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Background Do Applicants Need?

Applicants should have a Bachelor of Science degree in a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics field. Applicants with non-STEM bachelor’s degrees may begin with the Certificate in Data Science for additional preparation.

Is the Program Fully Online?

Yes. The M.S. in Data Science Online is delivered 100% online and can be completed remotely. An on-campus M.S. in Data Science program is also offered.

Is the GRE Required?

GRE General Test scores are not required for applicants who will have received a degree from an institution located in the U.S. or Canada by the time of enrollment. GRE scores are required for all other applicants.

Are Scholarships Available?

The School of Engineering offers partial tuition scholarships for a select group of Engineering master’s and certificate programs. When you apply for admission, you’ll automatically be considered, there’s no separate scholarship application or additional information required. Applicants are encouraged to apply early for priority scholarship consideration.

How Do I Apply?

Applicants can apply online through Tufts Graduate Admissions Portal. Required materials typically include transcripts, a resume or CV, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. International applicants may also need to submit English proficiency documentation. Visit the admissions page for current deadlines and application requirements.