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Master of Science in Applied Data Science

Master the skills to solve challenging analytics problems.

Position Yourself to Thrive in a Highly In-Demand Field

The University of San Diego's online Applied Data Science master's degree program (MS-ADS) was designed in collaboration with key industry stakeholders to offer cutting-edge curriculum taught by active industry experts. The university's MS-ADS program aspires to function as a respected data science thought leader as part of its mission to develop current and future generations of essential data scientists.

At A Glance

Develop your foundational knowledge and real-world data science skills in this master's program to generate informed decisions in an AI-driven world. View the information for the available format below.

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Program Length: 20 Months
Total Units: 30 Units
Cost Per Unit: $995
Next Term Starts: January 5, 2027
Final App Deadline: November 30, 2026

Highlights of the Part-Time Program (Online):

  • Offered 100% online only
  • 10 courses total: 2 prerequisite courses (which may be waived if student has completed comparable courses or has sufficient experience, and with approval by academic director) 2 foundational courses, 3 core courses and 1 final capstone course
  • 36 units (or 30, if the prerequisites are waived)
  • Estimated time to completion: 20 months
  • Courses are offered year-round in spring, summer and fall terms
  • Students take 2 courses per 14-week semester (taken 1 at a time with each course running 7 weeks)
  • Intakes in spring, summer and fall

About the Director

Ebrahim Tarshizi, PhD

Ebrahim Tarshizi is a professor of practice and director of the MS in Applied Data Science (ADS) and MS in Applied Artificial Intelligence (AAI) programs at the University of San Diego (USD). He is also co-director of the Center for Digital Civil Society in the Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering. Dr. Tarshizi is a member of a startup company’s advisory board specializing in healthcare technology. He is an adjunct professor at National University, where he has taught a variety of business and data analytics courses. Dr. Tarshizi is a former senior technical advisor for the CDC National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health’s (NIOSH) Mining Research Program. He was an instructor for the UCSD Extension’s Business Intelligence Analysis program. Dr. Tarshizi was a visiting scholar at UCSD’s San Diego Supercomputer Center (SDSC) and an assistant professor at Michigan Tech, where he spent over two years to co-develop a new engineering curriculum.

Dr. Tarshizi received a PhD in Geo-engineering from the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR). He obtained an MSc in Data Science from Michigan Tech and an MBA from UNR College of Business. He earned a BSc in Exploration Engineering in Iran. Dr. Tarshizi has published several articles in international journals and symposium proceedings and has delivered many technical reports and presentations at professional meetings and conferences. He has received a number of university, national and international awards and honors.

YOUR FUTURE IN DATA SCIENCE

Why Choose USD?

Education can change lives and create opportunities for those who commit themselves to the pursuit of excellence. At the University of San Diego we have designed an innovative online learning experience with your success in mind.