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Master of Science in Data Science

Male student standing by board with shadow of data on his face

Harness the Power of Big Data

Every second of every day, more than 1.5 megabytes of data are created for every person on earth. 

As private and public sector organizations grapple with the challenges of extracting, analyzing, and interpreting big data effectively, powerful and innovative technologies are shaping the future of cloud computing and data science.

Fordham’s M.S. in Data Science (MSDS) is a STEM-designated program that promotes innovative thinking through its interdisciplinary curriculum, provides advanced theoretical and technical skills to build computational models, and encourages students to engage in state-of-the-art research with internationally recognized faculty.

Together with Fordham's small classroom size, flexible evening classes, and unparalleled New York City location, our program will prepare you to become a data scientist and launch your career in this exciting new discipline.

Allows students to develop in-depth knowledge of manipulating large datasets and building computational models.

Offers Hands-On Experience with:

  • Machine/Deep Learning
  • Natural Language Processing
  • Cloud Computing
  • Hadoop/Spark
  • NoSQL database
  • Tableau

Explore Specialized Area(s) of Interest:

  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Computational Finance
  • Bioinformatics
  • Cybersecurity
  • Economics
  • and more

STEM Designated Program Image

STEM Designation

The M.S. in Data Science is a registered STEM-designated program, which permits a 24-month extension of post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), for a total eligibility of up to 36 months. Please consult Fordham’s STEM Extension page for more information.

Program Highlights

  • Designed to meet the demands of an ever-evolving job market
  • Develop in-depth knowledge of manipulating large data sets and building computational models 
  • Explore specific areas of interest, such as Cybersecurity, Economics, Biology, Psychology, Computational Finance, and Urban Studies
  • Hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies such as Tableau, Spark, Deep Learning, and Natural Language Processing

Program Basics

  • Curriculum requires 10 courses for 30 credits, including five core courses, four electives, and a Capstone Project.
  • A master’s thesis is optional – if taken, it consists of two subsequent courses that replace the Capstone Project and one elective.
  • One (1) internship (optional – if taken, this replaces the Capstone Project)
  • Designed as a one-to-two-year program.
  • Evening courses are held at Fordham's Lincoln Center Campus in Manhattan to accommodate working professionals.
View the Program Requirements

Career Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, career opportunities in data science have grown by 650% since 2012. The sector is forecasted to create an estimated 11.5 million jobs within the next decade. Possible professional placements include:

  • Data Scientist
  • Data Engineer
  • Chief Information Officer
  • Big Data Engineer
  • Data Architect
  • Information Technology Specialist
  • Statistician
  • Business Intelligence Analyst
  • Data Analyst
  • Data Analytics Manager

50 Best Jobs in America
According to the Glassdoor ®, four out of the top ten jobs in America are in Data Science.

Alumni Outcomes

MS in Data Science Companies

  • Please consult the admissions information/requirements page.

  • Please consult the courses page.

  • Please visit the GSAS Tuition and Fees page to view the tuition and fees for the Computer and Information Science programs.

    1. What are the deadlines for Fall and Spring Admissions?
      For deadlines, please consult the Application Deadlines page.
    2. What's available for graduate housing?
      For Graduate Housing Lincoln Center
      For Graduate Housing Rose Hill
    3. Are conditional acceptances offered if prerequisites are required?
      There are no conditional acceptances, only changes to degree requirements, such as added coursework taken while students are in the program or obtaining a satisfactory grade on a placement test, in order to meet pre-requisite requirements.

“The Data Science program is great for people who are looking forward to related jobs in the future. The professors here are kind, patient, and proficient; and have helped me build a solid data science background and sharpen my programming skills.”

Junyang Long MSDS '22, Software Engineer, Google

- Read more testimonials

Explore our Graduate Programs

Attend an upcoming virtual information session to learn more about our M.S. in Data Science program, the benefits of a Fordham education, and how to apply.

The virtual session is dedicated to our Computer Information Sciences (CIS) department and highlights our Ph.D. in Computer Science and the three Masters of Science programs; Computer Science, Cybersecurity, and Data Science.

Thank you for visiting the Computer and Information Science Department website.

Date Time Event
Friday, January 24 12 - 1 p.m. Register here
Thursday, February 27 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. Register here

Accelerated Master’s Program: Bachelor’s and Master’s in a total of five years (4+1)

Fordham's undergraduate students have the opportunity to earn their master’s degree with only one year of study beyond your bachelor’s degree. Visit the GSAS Admissions Events page for upcoming Accelerated Master's information sessions dedicated to Fordham undergraduate students.