Eligibility Requirements for University of Southern California MSc Data Science
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
2
Class Size
3.5 - 4 / 4
Bachelors GPA / Percentage Range
3.5
Avg. Bachelors GPA / Percentage
315 - 325
GRE Score Range
University of Southern California MSc Data Science Rankings
About 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:
USC Viterbi School of Engineering:
Campus Life:
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:
Program Structure:
Admission Requirements:
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/
Students can choose from a range of electives to tailor their studies to their interests:
Core Courses
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.
Specialization
Applied Data Science
Clubs And Association
- 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
University of Southern California MSc Data Science Fee Structure
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:
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:
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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
Top Employers
Salary Expectations
Starting salaries range from $90,000 to $120,000 annually, with potential for higher earnings with experience.
Career Support
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
Companies Recruiting University of Southern California MSc Data Science Graduates
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
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).
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:
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.
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:
What makes University of Southern California MSc Data Science unique?
The University of Southern California (USC) stands out for several reasons:
University of Southern California MSc Data Science Contact Information
Whom should I contact in case of any doubts?
Useful Links
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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.
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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.
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:
Eligibility standards to pursue MS in MIS:-
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.