Overview

The Data Science M.Sc. at Columbia University provides a sophisticated platform for students to master advanced analytical techniques and apply them to diverse professional fields. This highly-rated programme is designed to foster technical expertise while encouraging innovative research and practical application. Candidates develop the necessary skills to lead in the rapidly evolving landscape of data-driven decision-making.

This interdisciplinary initiative is delivered through a unique collaboration between the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences’ Department of Statistics and Columbia Engineering. By integrating expertise from the departments of Computer Science and Industrial Engineering and Operations Research, the curriculum ensures a robust foundation in both theoretical and applied sciences.

Why Data Science at Columbia University?

Choosing this programme means joining one of the most prestigious academic environments in the world. Columbia University offers students unparalleled access to industry partners and world-class faculty members who are leaders in their respective disciplines. The Data Science Institute serves as a hub for interdisciplinary research, featuring eight specialised centres that focus on areas such as cybersecurity, health analytics, and smart cities.

The programme’s location in New York City provides a distinct advantage, offering constant exposure to global innovation hubs in finance, media, and technology. Students benefit from a comprehensive support system, including professional development coaching and networking events. The inclusion of a mandatory Capstone project allows learners to solve real-world problems alongside industry affiliates, ensuring they graduate with practical, high-impact experience.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 64800 per year
National fee: USD 64800 per year
Local fee: USD 64800 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to build fluency in the full lifecycle of data, from collection to responsible analysis. Modules may include:

Algorithms for Data Science
Probability and Statistics
Machine Learning for Data Science
Exploratory Data Analysis and Visualisation
Statistical Inference and Modelling
Computer Systems for Data Science
Data Science Capstone

Careers with Data Science

Graduates are prepared for leadership roles across a vast array of sectors, including technology, finance, and healthcare. The programme’s rigorous training ensures that alumni are highly sought after by global organisations. Many former students have secured positions at prestigious firms where they apply their skills to drive innovation and strategic growth.

Recent graduates have found employment at leading companies such as:

Google, Meta, and Microsoft
Goldman Sachs, J.P. Morgan, and Citibank
Amazon, Walmart, and Alibaba
McKinsey & Company and Ernst & Young
IBM, Oracle, and Tesla

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Probability and statistics for data science
Algorithms for data science
Statistical inference and modelling
Computer systems for data science
Machine learning for data science
Exploratory data analysis and visualization

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-02-15 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

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4.9/5 student rating

Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Manhattan, United States

Disciplines

Data Science & Big Data View 470 other Masters in Data Science & Big Data in United States

This information is based on LinkedIn alumni data for graduates from 2018 to 2024 and may not fully represent all career outcomes

Total alumni

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Academic requirements

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

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

Undergraduate degree
Prior quantitative coursework (calculus, linear algebra, etc.)
Prior introductory computer programming coursework
Online application
Personal Statement
Uploaded transcripts from every post-secondary institution attended
Three recommendation letters
Curriculum vitae / resumé
Official Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test Scores are optional for the 2023 applications (optional)
$85 non-refundable application fee

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

64800 USD / year

≈ 64800 USD / year
Out-of-State

64800 USD / year

≈ 64800 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

64800 USD / year

≈ 64800 USD / year

Living costs

Manhattan

United States

2638 - 5751 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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Free visa & career support through our Path2Success program

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 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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About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying Computer Science & IT

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Manhattan

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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