Master of Science in Data Science | University of the Pacific

One of the best jobs in America^*

Located in San Francisco, Pacific's MS in Data Science program equips students for the exciting field of data science. This STEM-designated program uses a hybrid approach to learning with most courses requiring attendance in both in-person and online class sessions. It consists of 4 semesters spread over 2 academic years, during which a minimum of 32 units must be completed for degree conferral. Our students receive a personalized education featuring the small class sizes that are a trademark of a Pacific education.

Data scientists are in high demand. Every industry realizes that data is the key to future success, and organizations are looking for data scientists with deep knowledge of analytics. Pacific's Data Science program will prepare its students to be the data scientists of tomorrow.

*According to Glassdoor

COVID-19 Update (May 2021): The MS Data Science Program will hold classes fully online for the Fall 2021 semester, in anticipation of returning to our normal hybrid class model in Spring 2022. For more information, please contact the program.

Class of 2018

Alex Katona

"The program is intelligently designed for working professionals. I could continue to work full-time while taking classes full-time. This is possible because the in-person classes are held on Saturdays and the online classes are held after office hours. For my capstone project, I got to work with Charles Schwab, which helped me apply everything I'd learned in the program—something very few universities offered. I would strongly recommend this program to anyone considering a career in data science or advancing within the field."

Curriculum Overview

Our program uses a hybrid approach that combines the convenience of online learning with hands-on experience in the classroom. Online sessions are taught on weekday evenings, and classroom sessions are taught on the weekends. All courses are conducted live, with your professors, including the online, interactive sessions. All lectures are recorded so that students can review them later, if necessary.

graduate course catalogue

Minor in Data Science

Pacific's Minor in Data Science is an excellent way for undergraduate students to gain highly sought-after skills and to prepare for the MS in Data Science program. For more information, visit the Minor in Data Science webpage or contact DS minor advisor, Dr. James Hetrick.

Minor in Data Science

Video Tour of the Program

Select the link below to take the self-assessment test. This will help you determine if you have the necessary pre-requisite skills to start the Data Science program:

MS Data Science Self-Assessment

Bachelor's degree in any field
Must have coursework or experience in:
- Linear algebra
- Statistics
- Programming in a high-level language (experience in R and Python preferred)
While applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.65 to be considered for admission, competitive candidates should have a GPA of 3.0 or higher

Official transcripts for all college-level coursework
Two letters of recommendation
Resume
Statement of interest
- The statement of interest allows applicants to demonstrate their motivation, skills, and abilities that will contribute to their academic success in our program. While there is no specific format required for this statement, applicants are advised to give particular consideration to:
  - Academic credentials
  - Experience in the founational concepts :
    - Statistics or Linear Algebra
    - Computer programming (any language, but Python and R are preferred)
  - Commitment and personal stamina to undertake a fast paced, intensive academic program
  - Enthusiasm for this particular course of study

Neither the GRE nor the GMAT is required for admission to this program.

Must have the U.S. equivalent of a 2.65 GPA to be eligible for admission to the program.
Must provide an official, course-by-course with GPA transcript evaluation for non-U.S. transcripts from one of the agencies accepted by the University.
Must provide official English proficiency test scores from either TOEFL or IELTS.

Note: Course-by-course evaluations (and any other documents that are not directly loaded via GradCAS) should be sent to the following address:

University of the Pacific

Knoles Hall, Second Floor, Room 207B

3601 Pacific Avenue

Stockton, CA 95211-0110

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