Mercer University offers an online Master of Science in Data Science through its College of Professional Advancement. The program was previously named the MS in Applied Data Intelligence and Machine Learning.
The 36-credit degree follows a fixed sequence of 12 courses that moves from programming and statistics to machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and deep learning. Courses run in eight-week sessions, and the program ends with a capstone.
Last reviewed: October 2026
Quick Facts
| Degree | MS in Data Science |
| Former Name | MS in Applied Data Intelligence and Machine Learning |
| School | College of Professional Advancement |
| Location | Online (Atlanta-based college) |
| Format | Online, eight-week courses |
| Credits | 36 |
| Culminating Experience | Capstone |
| Minimum GPA | 2.5 |
| GRE | Not listed as a requirement |
| Fall Deadline | July 15 |
| Spring Deadline | November 15 |
| Typical Length | 18–24 months |
Official MS in Data Science page
Curriculum
Mercer’s program has no concentrations or electives. Every student takes the same 12 courses, which makes the path easy to plan and keeps the focus on applied machine learning.
Students complete 36 graduate credits consisting of:
- 12 credits of major core courses
- 24 credits of major requirements, including a 3-credit capstone
Major Core
- INFD 601 – Introduction to Data Science and Analytics
- INFD 602 – Foundations of Programming
- INFD 611 – Foundations of Statistics
- INFD 622 – Applied Data Mining and Machine Learning
The core starts with programming and statistics foundations, which suits students who are new to the field.
Machine Learning and Data Science Courses
- INFD 635 – Big Data and Unsupervised Machine Learning
- INFD 661 – Deep Learning for Data Science
- INFD 645 – Natural Language Processing in Data Science
- INFD 651 – Computer Vision for Data Intelligence
- INFD 621 – Computational Statistics for Data Science
- INFD 605 – Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms
- INFD 631 – Cloud Computing and Applications
Capstone
Students finish with INFD 799 – Capstone in Data Science, a 3-credit applied project. Mercer also notes optional internships and applied projects along the way.
Cost and Tuition
Mercer is a private university and charges the same tuition regardless of residency.
The Bursar currently lists tuition for this program at:
| Charge | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $731 per credit hour |
| Facility and technology fee | $28 per credit hour, up to $250 per semester |
At 36 credits, tuition comes to about $26,316 before fees.
The Bursar still lists this rate under the program’s former name, and one Mercer financial aid page shows a higher figure for the MS in Data Science. Students should confirm the current per-credit rate with Mercer before enrolling.
View Mercer graduate tuition rates
Admission Requirements
Applicants need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. The degree may be in any discipline, and Mercer lists no prerequisite courses or prior data science experience.
The graduate catalog sets a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.5. Applicants below that level may be considered for provisional admission on a case-by-case basis.
Application Materials
Applicants submit:
- online application and $35 application fee
- official transcripts from all institutions attended
- resume
- one letter of recommendation from an instructor or employer
- proof of English proficiency when required
Mercer does not list the GRE among the required materials.
Application Deadlines
| Entry Term | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall | July 15 |
| Spring | November 15 |
The program starts in August and January. There is no summer intake.
Program Format
Mercer lists the MS in Data Science as an online program. Courses run for eight weeks, and Mercer notes that students can comfortably take one three-credit course per term.
The average completion time is 18 to 24 months.
Students are expected to participate in class meetings each week, so applicants should ask Mercer about the current meeting schedule before enrolling.
Who Is This Program Best For?
Mercer’s MS in Data Science is a strong option for working adults and career changers who want an applied machine learning curriculum without computer science prerequisites.
It may be especially appealing to students interested in:
- applied machine learning and data mining
- deep learning
- natural language processing
- computer vision
- a structured online program taken one course at a time
- admission from any undergraduate major
The fixed sequence leaves no room for electives, and the program does not cover computer systems, theory, or software engineering in the way a computer science master’s does. Students who want research opportunities, a thesis, or a customizable curriculum may want to compare other Georgia schools.
Official Mercer University Program Links
Related Machine Learning Programs in Georgia
Students can also compare Mercer University with other master’s programs in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and related fields offered in Georgia.
- Emory University – Atlanta
- Georgia Institute of Technology – Atlanta
- Georgia Southern University – Statesboro
- Georgia State University – Atlanta
- Kennesaw State University – Kennesaw
- University of Georgia – Athens