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.
You'll study a wide range of computational methods such as text analysis, network analysis, geocoding and GIS, agent-based simulations, and machine learning for the social sciences. A variety of electives in areas such as survey research, advanced statistics, and econometrics will help hone your program to your career goals. You can also select courses in areas such as city planning, international law, and media and culture to boost your knowledge of economic, social, and political phenomena.
You can either follow a one-year, fast-track plan (with the last three months compatible with full-time work) or study part-time for 18–24 months. You can also pursue your degree on campus or online to fit your schedule.
This career-focused program is ideal for students who are seeking an analyst or consulting position in public policy, market research, public relations, corporate communications, population studies, or survey research, or who are pursuing a PhD or other advanced graduate studies.
Related offerings
Students interested in our online 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
Students are admitted to the in-person program twice each year. For summer and fall enrollment, deadlines are February 15 for priority admissions and April 15 for regular decision. For online spring enrollment, November 15 is the deadline for priority admission and December 1 is the deadline for regular decision.
Financial Arrangements
The MS program offers a superior education at a competitive rate. Our 10-month accelerated track allows students to spend fewer months in full-time graduate education and more rapidly join the workforce.
Featured Classes
Application information and deadlines
Apply via the standard UMass Graduate School application process. Any late applications will be considered if space is available.
Data Analytics and Computational Social Science
At UMass Amherst, you can undertake intensive courses in advanced data science taught from a social science perspective.