Program Overview
The master of science in data analytics and computational social science (MS in DACSS) is an interdisciplinary program that will train you to effectively use and communicate data to support decision-making.
With an MS in DACSS, possible career trajectories include analyst and consulting positions in public policy, market research, public relations, corporate communications, population studies, and survey research. Students will also be well prepared to pursue a PhD or other advanced graduate studies.
The 4+1 accelerated degree option allows a student to complete the requirements for a bachelor's and master's degree in less time than would be required through normal enrollment. Current UMass Amherst and 5 College students are eligible to apply for the 4+1 MS in DACSS while still enrolled as an undergraduate and transfer up to four courses (or 12 credits of 500-level or higher courses) to the MS in DACSS.
Related offerings
Students interested in our 4+1 accelerated master of science in data analytics and computational social science may also be interested in these other offerings.
Curriculum
The degree curriculum has been carefully designed to prepare students for the workforce and reflects current industry standards for data science professionals. The MS in DACSS requires satisfactory completion of 11 courses, totaling 32 credits.
Application and Admissions
The 4+1 MS in DACSS is open to undergraduate students at UMass Amherst, Amherst College, Mount Holyoke College, Smith College, and Hampshire College. Students should apply for the program in their junior year in order to begin taking coursework in their senior year. For summer/fall enrollment, application deadlines are February 15 for priority admissions and April 15 for regular decision.
Financial Arrangements
The MS program offers a superior education at a competitive rate. Our various program paths allows students to spend fewer months in full-time graduate education and more rapidly join the workforce.
Data Analytics and Computational Social Science
At UMass Amherst, you can undertake intensive courses in advanced data science taught from a social science perspective.