M.S. Data Science - Online
The online M.S. in Data Science from IU Bloomington’s Luddy School offers working professionals the flexibility to advance their careers while gaining specialized knowledge in data science.
Master Data Science on Your Schedule
Earn your master’s without putting your career on hold. Ranked 13th among online data science programs and 5th for affordability by Fortune, the online M.S. in Data Science from IU Bloomington’s Luddy School is designed for working professionals who want to advance their careers without returning to school full-time. The program offers flexibility, allowing you to gain specialized knowledge in data science while balancing your work and personal life.
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What you'll learn
In this program, you’ll learn to analyze large datasets, apply machine learning and statistical methods to real-world problems, and integrate data science into your professional field. You’ll also build strong communication skills to share insights effectively, preparing you to advance your career or move into data-focused roles in industry or government.
Program details for M.S. in Data Science
At a glance
Format: Online
Start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer
Admission requirements
Before applying to the online M.S. in Data Science program, you should have a basic understanding of the programming languages Python and R, in addition to math and probability.
If you need assistance developing or refining your mathematical or programming skills in addition to your academic background, please refer to our preparatory resources for a detailed list of self-study recommendations.
The Luddy graduate admission committees will consider students who have a three- or four-year bachelor's degree. Applicants should have a minimum of a 3.0 (B) or higher GPA.
Degree Requirements
To earn the online master’s in data science, you’ll complete 30 graduate-level credits. Degree requirements include:
- 6 core credits
- 6 domain area credits
- 3 capstone project credits
- 15 electives
All degree requirements for the online master’s in data science program are listed in the Luddy academic bulletin. To review your specific requirements, choose the bulletin year that best represents the year you started or will start your program.
Curriculum
This 30-credit hour program is fully asynchronous and built for flexibility, allowing you to study full-time or part-time over up to five years. The curriculum includes:
- Core courses in data mining, machine learning, and statistical inference
- Electives in data visualization, cloud computing, natural language processing, and ethics
- A final integrative project or applied capstone
The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing you to work alongside experts in fields such as business, informatics, public health, and the sciences. You will engage in real-world problem solving, contribute to meaningful research, and build lasting professional networks that support your career long after graduation.
Degree/track options, if applicable
Along with core requirements, the online M.S. in Data Science includes an independent capstone project, elective credits, and the opportunity to specialize in a specific You can choose to focus your degree in one of three domains:
- Data Analytics and Visualization
- Intelligent Systems Engineering
- Cybersecurity
A wide variety of elective courses allows you to further customize your degree, with options like machine learning in bioinformatics, social media mining, and data analysis in public affairs.
Showcase your skills with a Data Science Capstone
A key feature of the program is the capstone course, where you’ll have the chance to apply your data science skills to real-world projects with actual clients.
This course allows you to create a final project or dive into an independent data science research initiative, showcasing your abilities to future employers.
You’ll also have the opportunity to explore Luddy’s strong data science research approach and the new Faculty Assistance in Data Science program.
Start a career at Luddy
Graduates enter a strong job market with in-demand skills in programming, analytics, machine learning, and data ethics. With hands-on experience and interdisciplinary training, they are well prepared for careers in technology, healthcare, finance, government, and beyond, taking on roles such as data scientist, analyst, and machine learning engineer.
$92,167Average starting salary
98%of graduates reported full-time employment or graduate school admissions
A few companies that have hired M.S. Data Science - Online graduates at Luddy:
General Motors, Disney Streaming, Draft Kings, Cognizant, LexisNevxis Risk Solutions
What are the career possibilities with a computer science major?
Data Analyst/Scientist, Data Engineer, Senior Data Consultant, Software Engineer, Software Developer
The Luddy Student Experience
Real Research. Real Experience.
Discover Luddy Research
At Luddy and across IU, students and faculty tackle bold research in areas like bioinformatics, computational biology, security, and privacy.
Through the Undergraduate Research Opportunities in Computing program, computer science majors can gain hands-on experience, work closely with faculty or Ph.D. mentors, and build skills that open doors in tech and research careers.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Explore our Financial Help
Attending the Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering is more affordable than you think. With direct-admit scholarships and federal financial aid, you can reduce the cost of earning your M.S. in Data Science at IU.
Advising and Student Resources
Find Extra Help
Whether you’re a Data Science major or still exploring your options, Luddy School advisors are here to help you navigate degree requirements, seize academic opportunities, and tailor your journey to fit your goals.