Overview

The Master of Science in Public Policy Data Science (MPPDS) programme at the University of Southern California is a pioneering joint initiative between the USC Price School of Public Policy and the USC Viterbi School of Engineering. This unique programme is designed to equip students with the necessary skills to harness data science in addressing intricate public policy issues. By blending quantitative analysis with policy-making, the MPPDS prepares graduates to make impactful contributions across various sectors, including non-profits, government agencies, and private organisations.

Why Public Policy Data Science at the University of Southern California?

USC is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and innovative approach to education. The MPPDS programme stands out as one of the few interdisciplinary courses that merge public policy with data science, providing students with a competitive edge in the job market. The university boasts strong partnerships with industry leaders, enabling students to engage in real-world projects and internships that enhance their learning experience. Additionally, USC's state-of-the-art facilities and vibrant campus life create an enriching environment for students to thrive.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

The tuition fees for the Master of Science in Public Policy Data Science are as follows:

International Students: USD 66,640 per year

Domestic Students: USD 66,640 per year

European Students: Not applicable

Local Students: USD 66,640 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.Syllabus

The MPPDS curriculum is designed to provide a robust foundation in both public policy and data science. Key modules include:

Data Science Principles and Techniques

Policy Analysis and Evaluation

Machine Learning Applications in Public Policy

Statistical Methods for Public Decision Making

Data Visualisation and Communication

This structure ensures students gain practical skills that are immediately applicable in their careers.Careers with Public Policy Data Science

Graduates of the MPPDS programme have successfully launched careers in diverse roles, leveraging their expertise in data science to influence public policy. Alumni have secured positions such as Data Analyst at the Neighborhood Data for Social Change, Research Associate, and Senior Research Programmer. They are making significant contributions in various sectors, including healthcare, environmental policy, and urban planning, demonstrating the programme's effectiveness in preparing students for impactful careers.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Economics for Public Policy
Public Policy Analysis
Multivariate Statistical Analysis
Applied Econometrics for Program Evaluation
Computational Thinking and Data Science
Overview of Data Informatics in Large Data Environments
User Experience Design and Strategy

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-06-01 00:00:00 , National
- Apply before 2026-05-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Los Angeles, United States

Disciplines

Public Policy Data Science & Big Data View 461 other Masters in Data Science & Big Data in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and have a basic competence in descriptive and inferential statistics.
You must hold a degree considered equivalent to a U.S. bachelor's degree, as evaluated by the USC Office of Graduate & International Admission.
Your college or university must be recognized by the appropriate governmental ministry as a degree-granting institution.
All transcripts and degree certificates/diplomas must be written in the original language of instruction.
Official transcripts must show all courses and subjects taken and all grades (marks) received.
Official transcripts must be sent directly to USC by the college or university.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

73260 USD / year

≈ 73260 USD / year
Out-of-State

73260 USD / year

≈ 73260 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

73260 USD / year

≈ 73260 USD / year

Living costs

Los Angeles

United States

1520 - 2570 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Public Policy Data Science.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

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Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Los Angeles

Financing

Funding

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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