Master Programme
Master of Science in Data Science
The residential MS in Data Science at the Halıcıoğlu Data Science Institute teaches the skills needed for data-driven work and lays foundations for future data science researchers. Students take twelve courses: foundational courses in programming, data organisation, numerical linear algebra, probability and statistics, and optimisation (which can be waived with equivalent prior study); at least six core courses, three of them required (including machine learning and statistical models); and electives. Students finish with a thesis or a course-based comprehensive exam across machine learning/computing, math/statistics and systems/algorithms. HDSI says its in-person graduate degrees are STEM-designated.
University
University of California, San Diego
Country
United States
Level
Master
Field
Data Science
Duration
1-2 years full-time (48 units, twelve 4-unit courses)
Language
English
Campus
La Jolla (San Diego)
Degree
Master of Science (MS) in Data Science
Intake
Fall quarter only (fall 2027 quarter begins 20 September 2027)
Application Deadline
Fall 2027 entry (UC San Diego Application for Graduate Admission, choosing 'Master of Science, Data Science' for the in-person program; international applicants pay US$155): the tentative application deadline is 2 December 2026. HDSI reviews applications after the deadline and applicants hear about their status by April 2027
Tuition Information
2026-27 graduate tuition and fees (state-supported program, three quarters: fall, winter and spring): US$38,087 for non-California residents, including international students, against US$22,985 for California residents. This covers UC tuition of US$13,722, the student services fee of US$1,344, campus fees, mandatory health insurance of US$6,660 (waivable with equivalent cover), a one-time US$115 enrollment services fee and US$15,102 in Nonresident Supplemental Tuition (US$5,034 a quarter). New international students also pay a one-time US$200 visa administration fee. UC San Diego's 2026-27 graduate cost of attendance adds food and housing of US$31,056 to US$31,548, books of US$729, personal costs of US$2,574 and transportation of US$3,990, for an estimated nonresident total of US$76,329 to US$76,821 a year. The program is not on UC's 2026-27 list of UC San Diego degrees that charge Professional Degree Supplemental Tuition. Rates for 2027-28 have not been published yet
Admission Requirements
- A bachelor's degree meeting UC San Diego's graduate admission requirements (at least a 3.0 GPA). The committee looks for prior study of linear algebra, programming and probability/statistics, sustained academic success and a clear interest in data science, and welcomes applicants from many majors
- Application materials: statement of purpose, CV or resume, three letters of recommendation and unofficial transcripts (official transcripts only after an offer). GRE not required for fall 2027
- UC San Diego graduate English proficiency (international applicants): TOEFL iBT 4.5 on the new scale (85 on the previous scale), IELTS Academic 7, Duolingo English Test 120 or PTE Academic 65; TOEFL MyBest scores are not accepted. You are exempt if you have or will have a bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree with B (3.0) grades or better from an accredited US university that teaches only in English, or from a university abroad that the IAU World Higher Education Database lists as teaching solely in English