Data Science: FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Due to the large number of applications that are received, the MSDS program has gone to admission for fall semesters only. The application deadline is Feb. 1 for the following fall semester. Because the window for application for fall 2023 has closed, the next semester for admission to the program is fall 2024. Applicants are encouraged to apply earlier than this date because space is limited in the program, and it may fill before all applications are read. Review of applications begins in November.Please note that different programs have different deadlines; don't assume that a deadline for one program may apply to another program.
The data science field is rapidly growing in demand for well-trained and knowledgeable graduates. The University of Delaware’s master of science in data science program provides a solid background in the recognized elements of data science: math, statistics and computer science. Students in this program have the opportunity to study with award-winning faculty, such as NSF CAREER Award winners. Every student gets an advisor to help them design their own program path.
The University of Delaware’s master of science in data science program is interdisciplinary and has the flexibility to provide students with domain knowledge from a wide range of departments and fields. This interdisciplinary program provides opportunities for the synthesis of ideas and characteristics from multiple disciplines. Simultaneously, it addresses students’ unique differences and helps to develop important, transferable skills. Students graduate with a more in-depth understanding of data science because they are considering the diverse and varied perspectives from which it can be explored.
The 4+1 bachelor's/MSDS option allows an undergraduate currently enrolled at UD to complete the MSDS in one additional year, while sharing six credits of graduate coursework between the two degrees. (Without the 4+1 option, it is not possible to share credits between undergraduate and graduate degrees.) The MSDS can be obtained in conjunction with a limited numbers of bachelor's degree programs as a 4+1 Bx/MSDS combination. Here the x in Bx can be A for Arts, S for Science or other letters for other degrees. The bachelor's degrees available are from the departments of Computer and Information Sciences, Electrical and Computer Engineering, and Mathematical Sciences. For detailed curriculum requirements, see the Program Policy Statement.
The timeline and procedure for the bachelor's/MSDS 4+1 programs are different from other 4+1 programs on campus. Current students who wish to be admitted to the combined bachelor's/MSDS 4+1 program should submit an application during the junior year of academic study toward an undergraduate degree at the University of Delaware. By junior year, we mean that by status according to credits completed toward the degree, and the student should have more than one year of study remaining to earn the bachelor's degree. Interested students should consult with the MSDS graduate services coordinator (msds-admin@udel.edu) regarding the process, and with an advisor from the MSDS program about the courses to be taken. The form “Graduate Course Approval Form for 4+1 Admission Approval” is required for the application to the bachelor's/MSDS 4+1 program. At a minimum, the applicant must have a cumulative GPA of 3.2 and a GPA of 3.4 in their undergraduate major. For any bachelor's degree, the applicant must have completed the background requirements by the end of the fourth year of undergraduate study. Two letters of recommendation from University of Delaware faculty and academic transcripts must be submitted. Neither the GRE nor the TOEFL/IELTS exam is required for 4+1 program applications.
The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is not required in the application for admission. If it is taken, you may report the results if you wish.
If you are a foreign student, and if you have not already earned a degree from an American university, then you will need to take one of these exams. The minimum scores needed are on the Requirements page.
The tuition rate for the 2024-25 academic year is the standard tuition rate of $1,069 per credit hour. Rates for all graduate programs can be found here.
Students should file the FAFSA to be considered for federal student loans. Aid is generally awarded for the academic year, but disbursement (payment) is split between the fall and spring semesters.
Similar to most degree programs at the University of Delaware, students can take classes full time or part time; it’s up to the student.
Though some courses are offered online by the participating departments, this program is primarily in person. Courses should be checked individually because they may change from one semester to the next. The courses that are offered in the coming semester may be found here.
The course descriptions of all of the University of Delaware’s courses can be found here; be sure to check the year because there may be archived versions stored as well. Use the dialog boxes to select the semester of interest and the course. If one was interested in computer science courses, for example, one could enter “CISC6” in the third dialog box, hit enter and see all 600-level computer science courses for the specified semester. Course titles for required courses are specified here as well as information about what constitutes an elective.
Please contact msds-admin@udel.edu with your fee waiver request after you have completed the application and attached your supporting documents. The program should be contacted before the application has been submitted.
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