Apply

The program targets students who have an undergraduate degree in any discipline, with equivalent coursework to a minor in computer science (programming, discrete math, data structures and algorithms) and demonstrated strong mathematical and statistical proficiency. Interested applicants from outside Penn should apply via the School of Engineering’s Graduate Admissions site.

For students interested in Data Science (MSE-DS) Online, please go here.


Penn Engineering master’s students interested in transferring to the Data Science Program can apply after the end of their first semester at Penn and will need to complete the Data Science Program application and the SEAS transfer to another master’s program form.

Penn Engineering master’s students  interested in a dual master degree in Data Science will need to complete the Data Science Program application and the SEAS Application for Dual Master’s form. Due to the overlap in programs, dual degree applications with CIS/CIT/SCMP are strongly discouraged.

Applicants interested in the Accelerated Masters should follow these instructions here to access the School of Engineering information regarding the Accelerated Master’s option. Undergraduate students should not apply for the Accelerated Master’s in the Data Science Program until they have met the prerequisites. Qualified undergraduates from any Penn school, subject to their home school’s rules and regulations, are eligible to apply

For the transfer, dual, and Accelerated Masters please have (1) your latest resume or CV, (2) your academic transcript. You will also be expected to write a short statement of purpose. 

For all applications submitted by May 15th, please expect a response by mid June.
For all applications submitted by December 15th, please expect a response by mid January.

The absolute deadline for applying for the Accelerated Master’s is by the course selection deadline of the student’s seventh semester. The deadline to request a dual masters degree is the add/drop deadline of the final semester in the master’s program. A student cannot request to transfer in their last semester.