Montana State University offers a 30-credit Master of Science in Data Science in Bozeman. The interdisciplinary program combines computer science, mathematics, statistics, machine learning, and data analysis.
Machine learning is built directly into the curriculum. Every student takes Mathematics of Machine Learning, along with Algorithms and Experimental Design. Students can add courses in advanced machine learning, artificial intelligence, data mining, optimization, databases, and statistical computing.
The program is a strong option for students who want a quantitative data science degree with substantial machine learning coursework rather than a general analytics curriculum.
Montana State M.S. in Data Science: Quick Facts
| Degree | M.S. in Data Science |
|---|---|
| Location | Bozeman, Montana |
| Format | On campus |
| Credits | 30 |
| Typical Length | 2 years |
| Estimated Tuition & Fees | $13,141 resident; $19,712 WRGP; $44,346 nonresident |
| GRE Required? | No |
| Application Deadline | January 15 |
| Scholarship Priority Deadline | December 15 |
About the M.S. in Data Science
Montana State’s M.S. in Data Science requires 30 credits, normally completed as ten three-credit courses. Students study three core areas: computer science, mathematics, and statistics.
Students must complete at least six credits in each of these three areas. They also take one required foundational course from each discipline.
- CSCI 532 – Algorithms
- STAT 541 – Experimental Design
- M 508 – Mathematics of Machine Learning
Students use the remaining credits to develop a curriculum around their interests. Montana State provides sample plans for students who want to place greater emphasis on computer science, mathematics, or statistics. The published sample curricula spread the 30 credits across two academic years, making two years a reasonable expected completion time for a full-time student.
Machine Learning and AI Coursework
Montana State stands out because machine learning is part of the required curriculum rather than just an elective. M 508 – Mathematics of Machine Learning is required for every student and provides a mathematical foundation for machine learning methods.
Students interested in a stronger computer science and AI focus can select courses such as:
- CSCI 547 – Advanced Machine Learning
- CSCI 446 – Artificial Intelligence
- CSCI 447 – Machine Learning: Soft Computing
- CSCI 546 – Advanced Artificial Intelligence
- CSCI 550 – Advanced Data Mining
- CSCI 540 – Advanced Database Systems
- M 441 – Numerical Linear Algebra & Optimization
- M 507 – Mathematical Optimization
For example, Montana State’s sample computer science-focused curriculum includes Algorithms, Advanced Machine Learning, Advanced Data Mining, Mathematics of Machine Learning, Advanced Database Systems, Numerical Linear Algebra & Optimization, and Statistical Computing and Graphical Analysis.
Curriculum
Students complete at least two courses in each of the program’s three main subject areas.
| Area | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| Computer Science | 6 credits |
| Mathematics | 6 credits |
| Statistics | 6 credits |
| Total Program | 30 credits |
Beyond the three required foundational courses, students can select coursework in machine learning, AI, data mining, databases, statistical computing, time series analysis, multivariate analysis, optimization, and related areas.
Tuition and Cost
Montana State publishes estimated tuition and fees for completing a full 30-credit master’s degree. For a full-time student completing 12 credits during two semesters and six credits during another semester, MSU estimates the following:
| Residency | Estimated 30-Credit Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|
| Montana Resident | $13,141 |
| Eligible WRGP Student | $19,712 |
| Nonresident | $44,346 |
These estimates can change as tuition and university fees change.
The M.S. in Data Science participates in the Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP). Eligible students from participating western states can receive a reduced tuition rate rather than paying the standard nonresident rate.
One important funding consideration is that Montana State states that graduate teaching assistantships are not offered to M.S. in Data Science students.
Admissions
Montana State expects applicants to enter the program with a solid technical foundation. Prerequisite coursework includes:
- Three semesters of calculus through multivariable calculus
- Linear algebra
- Data structures and algorithms
- Methods of proof or discrete structures
- Introductory statistics
- At least three senior-level courses in mathematics, statistics, or computer science
Applicants who have not completed this background may need additional preparation before entering the graduate curriculum.
The GRE is not required and is not considered during the application process. Applicants must submit official transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and a list of relevant coursework completed after Calculus II.
Application Deadlines
Montana State normally admits new graduate students for the fall semester. The main application deadline is January 15. Students who want full consideration for university scholarship programs should complete their application by the December 15 priority deadline.
Is Montana State’s Data Science Master’s a Good Fit for Machine Learning?
Yes. Montana State’s program is a clear example of a data science master’s that fits a machine learning-focused program list.
Every student completes a dedicated Mathematics of Machine Learning course, and the curriculum includes additional options in advanced machine learning, artificial intelligence, data mining, algorithms, optimization, and statistical computing.
The program may be especially attractive to students who want to understand the mathematical and statistical foundations of machine learning rather than focus primarily on business analytics or applied data management.
The WRGP tuition rate is another major advantage for eligible students in western states. MSU estimates a 30-credit cost of about $19,712 in tuition and fees for eligible WRGP students, compared with about $44,346 for standard nonresident students.