Eligibility Requirements for University of Southern California MSc Data Science

university of southern california data science ms


The following materials are required to be included with your online application for University of Southern California Data Science MS:





Requirement
Details


Bachelor’s Degree
A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as computer science, engineering, mathematics, or a related discipline


GPA
Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale


GRE Scores
Required (no minimum score specified, but competitive scores are recommended)


English Language Proficiency
TOEFL or IELTS required for international students (minimum TOEFL score of 90 or IELTS score of 6.5)


Letters of Recommendation
Three letters of recommendation from academic or professional references


Statement of Purpose
A written statement outlining your academic and professional background, career goals, and reasons for pursuing the program


Resume/CV
A current resume or curriculum vitae


Prerequisite Knowledge
Proficiency in programming (Python, C++), statistics, and data structures



NOTE: The GRE is not required for 2025 applications.

Program Eligibility URL:https://viterbigradadmission.usc.edu/programs/masters/msprograms/data-science/ms-applied-data-science/

University of Southern California MSc Data Science Class Profile

The class profile for the MSc in Applied Data Science at the University of Southern California (USC) provides insights into the diverse and talented group of students who enroll in this program. 

2

Class Size

3.5 - 4 / 4

Bachelors GPA / Percentage Range

3.5

Avg. Bachelors GPA / Percentage

315 - 325

GRE Score Range

About University of Southern California

University of Southern California


The University of Southern California (USC) is a top private research university in Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1880, it offers a blend of academic excellence, innovative research, and a vibrant campus life.


Key Highlights:



  • Location: Located in Los Angeles, offering numerous cultural and professional opportunities.

  • Academic Excellence: Consistently ranked among the top universities globally.

  • Diverse Community: Students from over 115 countries.

  • Research: Leading in fields like engineering, business, health sciences, and more.

  • Alumni Network: Strong connections providing career opportunities.


  • USC Viterbi School of Engineering:



  • Reputation: Highly regarded for engineering and technology programs.

  • Facilities: Advanced labs and research centers.

  • Faculty: Experienced leaders in their fields.

  • Programs: Offers a range of innovative undergraduate and graduate programs.


  • Campus Life:



  • Student Organizations: Numerous clubs and groups for various interests.

  • Support Services: Academic advising, career counseling, and health services.

  • Housing: On-campus housing options available.

  • University of Southern California MSc Data Science Program Description

    The MSc in Applied Data Science at the University of Southern California (USC) is designed to help students learn how to handle and analyze large sets of data. The program is part of the Viterbi School of Engineering, known for its strong focus on technology and research.


    Key Features:



  • Curriculum: The program includes courses in data mining, machine learning, data visualization, and big data analytics. You can choose electives in areas like artificial intelligence and natural language processing to suit your interests.

  • Hands-on Experience: You will get practical experience through projects, internships, and research. This prepares you for real-world data science jobs.

  • Experienced Faculty: Learn from professors who are experts in data science and have strong industry connections.

  • Top-notch Facilities: Access advanced computing labs and data science software.

  • Career Support: Benefit from resume workshops, interview preparation, and job placement help.


  • Program Structure:



  • Duration: It usually takes 1.5 to 2 years to complete the program, depending on your course load.

  • Units: You need to complete 32 units, including core courses, electives, and a capstone project or thesis.


  • Admission Requirements:



  • Bachelor’s Degree: A degree in computer science, engineering, mathematics, or a related field.

  • GPA: A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

  • GRE Scores: Required (aim for competitive scores).

  • English Proficiency: TOEFL or IELTS scores for international students (minimum TOEFL score of 90 or IELTS score of 6.5).

  • Letters of Recommendation: Three letters from academic or professional references.

  • Statement of Purpose: A statement about your academic background, career goals, and reasons for choosing this program.

  • Resume/CV: A current resume.

  • Prerequisites: Knowledge of programming (Python, C++), statistics, and data structures.
     


  • Program URL:https://viterbigradadmission.usc.edu/programs/masters/msprograms/data-science/ms-applied-data-science/

    University of Southern California MSc Data Science Program Curriculum

    Program Curriculum URL:https://viterbigradadmission.usc.edu/programs/masters/msprograms/data-science/ms-applied-data-science/


    University of Southern California


    Students can choose from a range of electives to tailor their studies to their interests:



  • Artificial Intelligence: Advanced AI concepts and applications.

  • Natural Language Processing: Techniques for understanding and processing human language.

  • Data-Driven Decision Making: Methods for making decisions based on data analysis.

  • Electives

    University of Southern California

    Students can choose from a range of electives to tailor their studies to their interests:

    • Artificial Intelligence: Advanced AI concepts and applications.
    • Natural Language Processing: Techniques for understanding and processing human language.
    • Data-Driven Decision Making: Methods for making decisions based on data analysis.

    The MSc in Applied Data Science at USC provides a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge for a career in data science. Here’s an overview of the key components:

    • Data Mining: Techniques for discovering patterns and knowledge from large datasets.
    • Machine Learning: Algorithms and statistical models for predictive analytics.
    • Data Visualization: Tools and techniques for visual representation of data.
    • Big Data Analytics: Handling and analyzing large-scale data.

    Applied Data Science

    • CS Student Organizations
    • Association of Data Scientists
    • USC Association of Computing Machinery (ACM)
    • USC Cyber Security and Digital Forensics Organization (CybOrg)
    • Data Science Association
    • Recognized Student Organizations

    University of Southern California MSc Data Science Acceptance Rate

    USC is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of around 12-16%. This reflects the university's high standards and large applicant pool. 

    University of Southern California MSc Data Science Fee Structure

    university of southern california data science ms


    The MSc in Applied Data Science at the University of Southern California (USC) is designed to provide students with in-depth knowledge and skills in data science.


    Here is a detailed breakdown of fees structure for University of Southern California Data Science MS program:



  • Tuition Fee per Unit: $2,199

  • Total Units Required for Degree: 32 units

  • Estimated Total Tuition Fee: $70,368





  • Fee Description
    Fee Amount


    Tuition Fee per Unit
    $2,199


    Total Units Required
    32 units


    Estimated Total Tuition Fee
    $70,368


    Application Fee
    $90 (non-refundable)


    Books and Supplies
    $1,500 per year


    Living Expenses
    $20,000 - $30,000 per year


    Total Estimated Cost
    $100,000 - $120,000 for 1.5-2 years


    University of Southern California MSc Data Science Deadlines

    University of Southern California MSc Data Science Admission Process

    The admission process for the MSc in Applied Data Science at the University of Southern California (USC) involves several steps. Here's a simplified overview:



    • Online Application: Complete the online application form available on the USC Viterbi Graduate Admission webpage.

    • Application Fee: Pay the non-refundable application fee of $90.

    • Academic Transcripts: Submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.

    • GRE Scores: Submit your GRE scores. Competitive scores typically range from 315 to 325.

    • English Proficiency (for international students): :Submit TOEFL (minimum score 90) or IELTS (minimum score 6.5) scores if your native language is not English.

    • Letters of Recommendation: Provide three letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.

    • Statement of Purpose: Write a statement outlining your academic background, career goals, and reasons for pursuing the program.

    • Resume/CV: Submit a current resume or curriculum vitae detailing your academic and professional experiences.

    • Prerequisites: Ensure you have proficiency in programming (Python, C++), statistics, and data structures.

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      University of Southern California MSc Data Science Employment

      Graduates at University of Southern California data science MS are well-prepared for a variety of careers in the rapidly growing field of data science.


      Here’s an overview of the employment prospects:





      Category
      Details


      High Demand
      Data science is a rapidly growing field with high demand across various industries.


      Career Roles


    • Data Scientist

    • Machine Learning Engineer

    • Data Analyst

    • Big Data Engineer





    • Top Employers


    • Google

    • Facebook

    • Amazon

    • Microsoft

    • Goldman Sachs

    • Deloitte

    • PwC

    • Kaiser Permanente

    • Johnson & Johnson





    • Salary Expectations
      Starting salaries range from $90,000 to $120,000 annually, with potential for higher earnings with experience.


      Career Support


    • Resume workshops

    • Interview preparation

    • Job placement assistance





    • Networking Opportunities
      Access to USC’s extensive alumni network and industry connections.



       

      98,300

      Average Starting Salary

      University of Southern California MSc Data Science Employment Statistics

       https://mentr-me-prod.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/images/6690d880f0e521720768640.jpg


      Top Employers:



    • Amazon  

    • Experian  

    • Google  

    • Meta Platforms, Inc.  

    • Qualcomm  

    • Companies Recruiting University of Southern California MSc Data Science Graduates

      Graduates of University of Southern California Data Science MS program are highly sought after by leading companies like:



    • Amazon

    • Google

    • Meta Platforms

    • Inc.

    • Qualcomm

    • Experian


    • Employment Overview URL: https://viterbigradadmission.usc.edu/programs/masters/msprograms/data-science/ms-applied-data-science/

      University of Southern California MSc Data Science Alumni Info


    • Marc Benioff: Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Salesforce

    • George Lucas: Filmmaker and Creator of Star Wars

    • Will Ferrell: Actor and Comedian

    • Neil Armstrong: Astronaut and First Person to Walk on the Moon

    • Application Essay for University of Southern California MSc Data Science

      Question 1:


      Describe how you plan to pursue your academic interests and why you want to explore them at USC specifically. Please feel free to address your first- and second-choice major selections (250 words).


      Question 2(optional):


      Starting with the beginning of high school/secondary school, if you have had a gap where you were not enrolled in school during a fall or spring term, please address this gap in your educational history. You do not need to address a summer break (250 words).

      0

      Statement of Purpose for University of Southern California MSc Data Science

      Follow the given 5 steps to come up with a stellar SOP and secure admission for University of Southern California Data Science MS:



    • Write a compact introduction paragraph: Your data science SOP introduction carries information about yourself and then about your career objective. Create an impression in the opening line of your SOP which makes the admission officer go further. 

    • Provide your academic accomplishments in detail: The first paragraph should carry the details of your academic qualification, achievements, volunteerships, presentations that involve subjects like data analytics, data structure, etc, and seminar and event organization.

    • Mention your professional background shortly
      This specific paragraph of your SOP should contain information about your organization, job role, projects you’ve handled, the solution you’ve suggested, and what made you take the decision of pursuing the course, university, and country.

    • Specify your goals clearly: In this paragraph, you need to talk about the plans you have after you complete the course and the skills and how the degree will help you to achieve your goals.

    • Write a killer conclusion: Summarize the data science SOP with the point of why you’re capable of joining their university and how important it is to pursue the course.

    • Interview Questions for University of Southern California MSc Data Science

      Beginning with applicants for the Fall 2019 semester, the University will no longer conduct or consider admission interviews as part of its application process.


      We encourage you to develop a strong application by focusing on the areas of your application discussed on our How To Apply page.  We also encourage you to visit campus through our Meet USC programs to learn more about the University and the Viterbi School of Engineering through an admission presentation, campus tour, and department information session with a representative from the Viterbi Office of Undergraduate Admission.

      University of Southern California MSc Data Science Scholarships available for International Students

      Yes, the USC Viterbi School of Engineering offers several merit-based funding opportunities specifically for international students pursuing Master's degrees. Here are some of the scholarships available:



    • Dean's Scholarships: Award amounts range from $5000 to $20,000, and they are open to all international and U.S. students pursuing a Master’s degree full-time from the Viterbi School of Engineering on the USC campus.

    • Emerging Leaders Scholarship: This scholarship is designed to support outstanding international students who demonstrate leadership potential and academic excellence.

    • GEM Fellowships: The Graduate Engineering Merit (GEM) Fellowship Program offers opportunities for underrepresented minorities to pursue graduate education in engineering.

    • Chevron-USC Partnership Fellowships: These fellowships are available to international students pursuing graduate studies in engineering disciplines relevant to the energy industry.

    • USC-META Center for Research and Education in AI and Learning Fellowship: This fellowship supports students interested in artificial intelligence and machine learning research.

    • Health Systems Management Scholarship: For students interested in health systems management, this scholarship provides financial support for their studies.

    • Information Sciences Institute Summer Internship Program: This program offers internships in various research areas related to information sciences.

    • Global Engineers Scholarship: This scholarship is available to international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and leadership potential.

    • USC Viterbi Active Duty Military Scholarship: This scholarship supports active-duty military personnel pursuing graduate studies at USC Viterbi.

    • What makes University of Southern California MSc Data Science unique?

      The University of Southern California (USC) stands out for several reasons:



    • Location: Situated in Los Angeles, offering access to diverse cultural, professional, and entertainment opportunities.

    • Academic Excellence: Consistently ranked among the top universities globally, with rigorous and innovative programs.

    • Research: Leading-edge research in various fields, including engineering, business, and health sciences.

    • Diverse Community: Students from over 115 countries, fostering a rich multicultural environment.

    • Strong Alumni Network: Extensive and active alumni network providing career support and opportunities.

    • State-of-the-Art Facilities: Advanced labs, research centers, and resources.

    • Student Life: Numerous clubs, organizations, and support services enhance the student experience.

    • University of Southern California MSc Data Science Contact Information

      Whom should I contact in case of any doubts?

      Email ID: datasci@usc.edu


      Phone: 213.740.4488

      Useful Links

      Photos & Videos of University of Southern California MSc Data Science

      university of southern california data science ms
      university of southern california data science ms

      Conclusion: Should you apply to University of Southern California MSc Data Science?

      USC's MSc in Applied Data Science offers a top-ranked program with a strong curriculum, hands-on experience, expert faculty, and excellent career support. It's a great choice if you want a prestigious degree and access to a vast professional network. Consider the competitive admissions and financial investment. 

      Ask a Question

      Have Queries about University of Southern California?

      Get Answers from Alums

      I am belongs to mechanical stream , but i want to do masters in data science. If i apply mechanical course to the University's later can i change to data science after going their.?

      It is possible to change your program of study from Mechanical Engineering to Data Science after you have enrolled in a university, but this will depend on the policies of the specific university and program.


      In some cases, universities may allow students to switch between programs within the same department or school, as long as they meet the prerequisites and requirements for the new program. However, switching to a completely different department or school may be more difficult and require additional coursework or qualifications.


      Before you apply to a university, I recommend that you research the specific programs and departments that interest you and check their policies regarding changing programs of study. You may also want to reach out to admissions officers or academic advisors at the universities you are considering to ask about their policies and any potential restrictions.


      Additionally, keep in mind that Data Science is a highly specialized field, and some programs may have specific prerequisites or requirements that you may need to fulfill before being accepted. This may include coursework in computer science, statistics, or other related fields. Therefore, you may want to consider taking some relevant courses or gaining experience in Data Science before applying to these programs.


      It is also important to note that switching programs can have an impact on your graduation timeline and academic progress. Depending on the programs and the credits you have already completed, switching to a new program may result in additional coursework, delayed graduation, or additional costs. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider your academic goals and interests before selecting a program of study and to plan accordingly if you decide to switch programs.

      I want to know university/colleges which has MS in information systems or MS in management information systems (MIS)?

      Management Information Systems or MIS is the software designed to instruct you on capabilities associated with IT and business. With MS in MIS, college students get the foundational commercial organization expertise with guides focusing on Information Systems. MIS application teaches students the software of computer-related science to managerial programs. After finishing the graduate program, students are organized to take on jobs where they have to provide picks to the issues the company/organization is going through.


      This program is offered via the capability of industrial enterprise schools and schools of Information Studies. The MIS program is a nice mixture of science and management that equips college students with the practical ability to significantly change organizations with the aid of technology. Many college students mistake it for MBA, however, MBA and MIS are different programs.


      Popular faculties offering MS in MIS: 



      1. Bellevue University (NE)

      2. Carnegie Mellon University

      3. University of Maryland (UMBC)

      4. University of Maryland - College Park

      5. New York University (Stern)

      6. University of California, Berkeley

      7. Syracuse University

      8. Oklahoma State University (Spears School of Business)

      9. University at Buffalo – SUNY (School of Management).


      10. Eligibility standards to pursue MS in MIS:- 



        • Usually, commercial company faculties require the candidates to have a bachelor's degree in IT or business.

        • Apart from this, colleges additionally are given candidates a bachelor's in Corporate Finance, Organizational Development, or Human Resources.

        • How to get scholarship for a student going to do MS in USA. What all scholarships are available for doing masters in USA.?

          Primary Scholarships: Firstly, most U.S. universities offer merit-based scholarships. 


          These are awarded based on a student's academic achievements, leadership qualities, and other personal attributes. Prospective students should review the specific scholarship pages of their chosen institutions for eligibility criteria and application guidelines.


          External Scholarships: 


          In addition to university scholarships, various external organizations and foundations such as the Fulbright Commission, Chevening Scholarships, or the Commonwealth Scholarships offer funding for international students. 


          These programs often target students from specific countries, disciplines, or those demonstrating particular academic or professional excellence.


          Industry-Specific Scholarships: 


          Students should also explore options within their chosen field. For example, the IEEE Computer Society offers scholarships for technology and engineering students, which can cover a significant part of tuition fees.


          Actionable Advice: Begin your search early and tailor your applications to each scholarship’s requirements. Pay close attention to the deadlines and required documents, as these can vary significantly. Moreover, crafting compelling personal statements and securing strong letters of recommendation are crucial components of a successful scholarship application.


          Broader Considerations: Be aware of the implications of scholarship funding on your visa status. Some scholarships may require you to return to your home country after your studies, which could affect your post-graduate plans.


          In summary, securing a scholarship for an MS in the USA involves diligent research, meticulous application processes, and an understanding of the broader professional and regulatory landscape. Being proactive and well-informed can significantly enhance your chances of receiving financial support.


           


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