Master of Science in Data Science: Research Track
This program is pending approval by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV). Students may apply now, but final admission is contingent upon SCHEV approval.
The Thesis Track of the Masters in Data Science is a 36-credit option designed for students who want to engage deeply with data science through sustained inquiry and faculty-guided scholarship. This pathway extends beyond advanced coursework to include a formal thesis, allowing you to develop and execute original research while working closely with a faculty mentor. It provides the technical depth, analytical rigor, and investigative experience needed for roles that require significant methodological expertise or preparation for further graduate study, and generally takes two years to complete. We also offer a 30 credit hour Masters in Data Science pathway which you can learn more about here.
Earning your Masters in Data Science Research Degree
Masters in Data Science Thesis Pathway |
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Example Schedule (Thesis Pathway) |
Who It's For |
College graduates and working professionals who want a two-year, research-intensive pathway that develops advanced data science expertise and provides experience conducting original, faculty-mentored scholarship. |
How Long it Takes |
A full-time, residential, 36-credit program designed to be completed in two years, with a culminating thesis defense. |
Background |
For students with some limited exposure to programming and statistics. Our first two courses are designed to provide a strong foundation and bring everyone to a shared starting point before moving into advanced material. |
How To Apply |
Apply through our online admissions portal. Submit your application by February 15 for Early Decision, or by May 1 for Regular Decision; admission notifications follow after each round. |
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What You'll Gain
The thesis option for the Masters in Data Science at W&M gives you the depth, focus, and investigative experience needed for roles that demand advanced methodological skill. You engage in graduate-level coursework while working closely with a faculty mentor to design and carry out a substantive thesis project grounded in real data and real questions. Through this work, you sharpen your analytical and technical capabilities, develop a research portfolio that demonstrates your expertise, and build connections that support pathways into specialized industry roles or further academic study.
Frequently Asked Questions
What background do I need to succeed in the Masters in Data Science program, thesis track?
Students need baseline preparation in programming and statistics, but the sequence is built to level students quickly and then move into the advanced methods required for thesis work.
Is prior research experience expected?
It is not required. The program is structured to teach research design, methodological rigor, and scholarly practice, and faculty mentors guide students as they develop and execute their thesis projects.
Can I pursue a thesis track Masters in Data Science with the BMAP?
Yes. Admission to the BMAP allows you to take double-counted courses, but you must still submit the standard graduate application in your senior year to enter the MS program formally. You can apply BMAP credits to either the one or two-year Masters in Data Science.
Are classes in person or online?
Courses are delivered residentially (in person) only for the Masters in Data Science research track.
Will I be matched with a faculty advisor?
Yes. Students are paired with a faculty mentor who helps shape the research question, methodological approach, and thesis timeline, providing structured guidance from proposal to final defense.