Master’s Degree in Data Science

FAQs

• If I meet the admissions criteria, will I be automatically admitted to the online master’s degree program?

  No applicant will be automatically admitted to the online program. All applications will be reviewed by a faculty committee to make certain those admitted have the ability to succeed in the data science master’s degree program.
• Is there a certain score needed on the GRE to be admitted?

  There is no minimum GRE test score, however applicants admitted to the DS graduate program usually have high quantitative and verbal GRE scores and a math background that includes study through some discrete math. If you feel that your test scores are not valid indicators of your ability, you should explain your concerns in your statement of purpose.
• How do I check the status of my application?

  GIAC MyStatus: https://utdirect.utexas.edu/apps/adm/mystatus/. This is the status check site for the Graduate International Admissions Center (GIAC). GIAC verifies application information, test scores, residency and admissions GPA calculations/equivalencies. If you have questions about the information your MyStatus page, please contact GIAC.
• Can I submit my GRE/TOEFL scores and transcripts after the application deadline?

  All application materials must be submitted by the application deadline. This includes the application fee, transcripts, applicable and optional scores, CV, personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
• Can the GMAT replace the GRE?

  No. Unfortunately, we cannot accept GMAT scores in place of GRE scores.
• Can I apply to other master’s degree programs at UT campus and MSDS during the same application period?

  Yes, you may apply for more than 1 program at UT Austin but you must fill out two separate applications and upload documents for each program.
• Where should ETS send my test scores?

  For GRE and TOEFL scores, the Educational Testing Service (ETS) institution code for UT-Austin is 6882. It is not necessary to use a department code. There is no institutional code for the IELTS examination. For IELTS scores, have an official paper score report sent to the Graduate and International Admissions Center.
• Is the TOEFL required for International Students?

  Yes, the TOEFL or the IELTS is required for international applicants. The minimum TOEFL score considered acceptable for admission by the graduate school is a 79 on the Internet-based test (iBT). For the IELTS, a student must have an overall band of 6.5 on the Academic Examination. International applicants who are from a country where English is the only official language are exempt from this requirement. Additionally, applicants are exempt from the requirement if they possess a bachelor’s degree from a U.S. institution or an institution in a country where English is the only official language. The requirement is not waived for applicants who have earned a master’s – but not a bachelor’s – degree from a similar institution.
• With regards to transcript submittal from a foreign university, do I need to submit a foreign credential evaluation from WES or another organization?

  A foreign credential evaluation is not required. If a transcript is written in a language other than English, a complete and official English translation must be uploaded together with the original transcript.
• Will the university ask my recommender for a letter of recommendation?

  Through the ApplyTexas system, you will be given the opportunity to submit three recommenders and provide contact information. The system will send an email to your recommenders directing them to a website where they may upload their letters. In addition, the MyStatus page of ApplyTexas offers a self-service feature you can use to resend the request email to your recommenders, if necessary. Use it to supply an alternate email address if your recommender’s spam filter blocks the original request or has removed the link. You can also add a new recommender or revise your right-to-view status from “retained” to “waived.”
• What is the curriculum?

  The online master of science curriculum will consist of ten courses total or 30 hours. Students will take a combination of foundational coursework and elective options. Through completion of the foundational coursework, students will gain a broad understanding of the field. As courses continue to be added to the program, students will also have elective flexibility.
• What degree is earned at the end of the program?

  Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS).
• Is this degree equivalent to the UT Master of Science in Data Science degree offered to on-campus students?

  Yes, your diploma will read exactly as that of an on-campus graduate.
• How many credit hours will I need in order to graduate?

  30 credit hours, which equals 10 courses.
• How long will the program take me to complete?

  The program can be completed in 1.5-3 years and the curriculum is highly flexible. Students may participate in the program on a part-time or full-time basis.
• Will there be financial aid assistance?

  US-based students in Option III programs are eligible only for federal guaranteed loans and some private sector loans. The Office of Financial Aid can advise Option III students on availability of these loans and required procedures for applying. Please contact Financial Aid. Please note students taking 3 hours are not aid eligible. Please note that with Option III programs students are not eligible for grant loans. Students in Option III programs are not eligible for Hinson-Hazelwood Act Exemptions (for Texas ex-servicemen and their children), but may be eligible for GI Bill benefits. Please direct questions to gibill@austin.utexas.edu and or UTVeterans@austin.utexas.edu.
• Do I have to maintain a certain GPA in order to stay in the program?

  Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA throughout the course of the program. If a student drops below 3.0, he or she will have one semester to bring up the GPA. If the student fails to do this, they will be dismissed from the program.
• How many courses will I be allowed to take at a time?

  A student may take up to five courses each semester. The online master’s degree program courses are of comparable rigor to the traditional courses. For working professionals we recommend taking one to two courses per long semester.
• Do you offer any specializations within the degree program?

  Currently there are no specializations available but in the future we may offer specializations which might include offering elective in data engineering, cybersecurity, analytics management, etc.
• Do you admit students for the fall semester only?

  We accept applications for both fall and spring entry.
• Is there a capstone project within the curriculum of the MSDS program?

  No, there is no capstone project.
• When will the semester start and end?

  The program will follow the timeline of the traditional semester. The university calendar can be found here https://registrar.utexas.edu/calendars.
• Will I have any instructor or TA interaction?

  Interaction between instructors and/or TA’s will be available through email, online discussion boards, and virtual office hours.
• Does UT Austin offer any other master’s degree programs with edX?

  Yes, UT Austin also offers the Master of Computer Science Online on the edX platform.
• Who can take this program?

  Unfortunately, learners residing in one or more of the following countries or regions will not be able to register for this program: Iran, Cuba and the Crimea region of Ukraine. While edX has sought licenses from the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) to offer our courses to learners in these countries and regions, the licenses we have received are not broad enough to allow us to offer this program in all locations. edX truly regrets that U.S. sanctions prevent us from offering all of our courses to everyone, no matter where they live.