Please note there is no application fee for graduate applications submitted by the Priority Deadline.

Why earn your Master of Science degree in Data Science online at CUNY SPS?

The MS in Data Science at the CUNY School of Professional Studies (CUNY SPS) prepares students to turn complex data into meaningful insights and practical solutions. Designed around the skills employers need, this applied graduate program combines statistics, programming, data management, machine learning, and communication with hands-on projects that reflect real-world data science challenges.

Throughout the program, students work with widely used tools and programming languages such as Python, R, and SQL, build increasingly sophisticated predictive and prescriptive models, and develop a portfolio of project-based work. The program culminates in a capstone project that gives students the opportunity to apply their knowledge to a complex, real-world problem.

About This Program

• Format: Online and Asynchronous
• Credits: 30 total
• Time to Completion: Varies depending on course load
• Start Terms: Fall, Spring
• Tuition: Part-time students – NYS residents: $470 per credit
• Capstone: Applied research project addressing a real-world data science problem

Why This Program

• Build hands-on experience using Python, R, SQL, and other industry-relevant tools
• Develop predictive and prescriptive models using statistical and machine learning techniques
• Gain practical experience acquiring, cleaning, managing, analyzing, and visualizing data
• Build a portfolio of increasingly complex projects that demonstrate applied data science skills
• Learn to translate quantitative findings into clear, meaningful recommendations for technical and nontechnical audiences
• Complete a capstone project focused on solving a real-world problem
• Learn from experienced faculty who are active technology practitioners and subject-matter experts
• Fully online format offers flexibility for working professionals
• Develop skills applicable across industries including technology, finance, healthcare, business, government, and research

Who Is This Program For?

The MS in Data Science is designed for professionals who want to enter or advance in data-focused careers and for individuals seeking deeper technical expertise in analytics, programming, statistical modeling, and machine learning.

Because data science is interdisciplinary, students may come from a range of academic and professional backgrounds. The program is particularly well suited to applicants who have quantitative or technical experience, as well as motivated professionals who are prepared to strengthen those skills through graduate study.

Skills You’ll Gain

• Use statistical and probability methods to analyze complex data
• Program and build analytical models using Python and R
• Create, test, and optimize regression, classification, Bayesian, and other predictive models
• Acquire, clean, normalize, manipulate, and manage data using SQL and other tools
• Apply machine learning techniques to real-world problems
• Develop predictive and prescriptive models to support decision-making
• Translate real-world questions into quantitative problems and analytical approaches
• Evaluate and communicate findings clearly to technical and nontechnical audiences
• Present data-driven recommendations effectively
• Develop practical solutions through project-based and capstone work

Sample Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue technical and managerial opportunities in areas such as:

• Data Science
• Data Analytics
• Machine Learning
• Artificial Intelligence
• Business Intelligence
• Data Governance
• Market Research
• Predictive Analytics
• Data Management
• Analytics Leadership

Program FAQ and Admissions Information

What are the admission requirements for the MS in Data Science?

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. A GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale is preferred.

Applicants are also required to submit:

• A personal statement
• A résumé
• One letter of recommendation

Because Data Science is an interdisciplinary field, CUNY SPS welcomes applicants from diverse professional and academic backgrounds. Candidates should demonstrate technical and quantitative preparation or the interest and ability to develop these skills.

What is the Data Science Bridge Tutorial?

All applicants are required to complete the Bridge Tutorial, a free, self-paced online mini-course designed to assess the skills needed to succeed in the MS in Data Science program.

Applicants with strong existing skills may be able to demonstrate their competencies quickly. Those who do not pass on the first attempt receive feedback and access to instructional resources before receiving another opportunity to complete the assessment.

The tutorial is untimed and designed to help applicants identify and strengthen areas where additional preparation may be helpful.

Do I need a programming or mathematics background?

The MS in Data Science is a quantitative and technical graduate program. Applicants with experience in programming, mathematics, statistics, or related areas may be particularly well prepared, but CUNY SPS welcomes applicants from a range of backgrounds who demonstrate the ability and willingness to build the required skills.

The Bridge Tutorial helps assess readiness for graduate-level study in the program.

What programming languages and tools will I use?

Students gain hands-on experience with commonly used data science technologies, including Python, R, and SQL, while developing skills in statistical modeling, machine learning, data acquisition, management, and analysis.

What topics does the program cover?

The curriculum integrates several core areas of data science, including:

Probability and Statistics: Statistical distributions, sampling, correlation, hypothesis testing, and related analytical methods.

Applied Mathematics: Matrix manipulation, linear equations, loss functions, and mathematical concepts used in data modeling.

Programming: Building, testing, and optimizing statistical and machine learning models using languages such as R and Python.

Data Acquisition and Management: Acquiring, cleaning, normalizing, manipulating, and managing data, including the use of SQL.

Critical Thinking and Communication: Translating real-world problems into quantitative approaches and communicating analytical findings clearly and effectively.

Will I complete hands-on projects?

Yes. Hands-on, project-based learning is a central component of the program. Students build a portfolio of increasingly complex work and apply technical and analytical skills to problems modeled on real-world data science challenges.

Is there a capstone project?

Yes. The MS in Data Science culminates in a capstone project that allows students to bring together the skills developed throughout the program and apply them to a sophisticated, practical problem.

What types of careers does the program prepare students for?

The program prepares graduates for technical and managerial work involving data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, business intelligence, data governance, market research, and related areas.

What are the MS in Data Science application deadlines and how do I apply?

Spring 2027 Priority Deadline: November 5, 2026
Spring 2027 Regular Deadline: December 3, 2026

Students who submit a graduate application by the Priority Deadline do not pay an application fee.

Apply Now

General FAQ

Is the MS in Data Science fully online?

Yes. The program is delivered fully online, providing students with the flexibility to complete their graduate education from wherever they are.

Are courses asynchronous and what does that mean?

Yes. The online format is designed to provide flexibility without required live class meetings or set login times. Students complete coursework according to established course schedules and deadlines.

Is this program designed for working professionals?

Yes. The flexible online environment allows students to pursue graduate study while balancing professional and personal responsibilities.

How do I request information about the program or contact admissions?

You can request program information through the Request Info form or contact CUNY SPS Admissions:

Text: (646) 517-7876
Email: admissions@sps.cuny.edu
Phone: (646) 664-8544

For program-specific questions, contact datascience@sps.cuny.edu.

When can I start?

Students can begin the program in the Fall or Spring term.

How long does it take to earn the MS in Data Science?

Completion time depends on the number of courses taken each semester and any additional preparation a student may need. I would confirm the standard completion estimate with the Data Science program before publishing this FAQ.

Is financial aid available?

Graduate financial aid options may be available to eligible students. Learn more about financial aid.

Are there scholarships that I can apply for?

CUNY SPS students may be eligible for School-based, CUNY-wide, external, and veteran scholarship opportunities. The Russell Peterson Technology Scholars program is also open to eligible students pursuing the MS in Data Science.

What support services are available for students?

Students have access to academic advising, career services, professional development resources, counseling, disability services, veteran services, writing and tutoring support, library resources, and other CUNY SPS student services.

How do I learn more about student life?

Students can explore CUNY SPS student life, clubs, organizations, events, and opportunities to connect with the School community.

Is CUNY SPS accredited?

Yes. CUNY SPS is part of the accredited City University of New York system.