Data Science (M.S.)
Be the Mind Behind the Model
Bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and successful practical application with our master's degree in data science.
Virginia Tech's Master of Science in Data Science combines rigorous technical training with real-world projects, preparing graduates to navigate organizational complexities and translate data into action and value.
The faculty’s extensive industry experience delivers a blend of technical expertise and industry understanding to give graduates a distinct edge.
- Non-thesis degree
- Taught by industry experts
- No GRE required
- All majors welcome
One degree, three options...
Choose Your Path
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BlacksburgBased in Blacksburg, this program option is designed for the completion of the M.S. degree in two years.
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Accelerated (4+1) Master's ProgramCurrent Virginia Tech students begin taking graduate courses as undergraduates to finish their master's degree in just one additional year.
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Northern VirginiaPart-time option — based in Alexandria — targeted towards working professionals and other students looking for greater flexibility.
Application Deadlines
- Guaranteed Review:
- Full-time M.S./4+1 accelerated degree: Feb. 15
- Part-time M.S. (Northern Virginia)*: April 1
- Final Deadline**:
- Full-time M.S./4+1 accelerated degree: April 1 (international); May 31 (domestic)
- Part-time M.S. (Northern Virginia): Aug. 1
Our Degree
September 30th, 2025- Panel discussion at VirginiaAI: Charting the Future of AI in Virginia. A summit hosted by the Virginia Academy of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (VASEM), in Alexandria at the Virginia Tech's Academic Building One. (photo by Craig Newcomb/Virginia Tech)
Career Opportunities
Stand out among the rest
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for data scientists is expected to grow by 34% by 2034. Students pursuing the M.S. in Data Science will receive the perfect blend of practice and theory: a combination that will help set them apart in this booming career field.
Experiential Learning
Solve real-world problems
The M.S. in Data Science is a non-thesis degree taught by industry experts with decades of experience in the field of data science. Students gain hands-on, real-world experience through a Capstone project completed in the second year.
July 21st, 2025 - A group of graduate student researchers with the Center for Ecosystem Forecasting collect water quality data at a reservoir in Roanoke. (Photo by Luke Hayes/Virginia Tech)
Interdisciplinarity
Explore beyond math, stats, and computer science
Students can choose from electives in economics, forest resources and environmental conservation, geosciences, and industrial and systems engineering to combine data science with domain knowledge.