How to Apply
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Connect with a program specialist to learn more
Application Process
The Data Analytics and Computational Social Science (DACSS) at the University of Massachusetts Amherst accepts applications per the deadlines below for the on-campus M.S. for students who wish to start the on-campus program in the Fall..
Additionally, we accept applicatons for an online M.S. offered through University Without Walls on a rolling basis, with deadlines dependent on the preferred start date. When possible, we encourage students to consider starting in the Summer with the in-person cohort in order to have the opportunity to participate in multimodal Orientation activities.
Please apply through the UMass Amherst Graduate School. Be sure to indicate which program you are applying to, and which term you plan to start the degree. Applicants to the in-person M.S. should apply for Summer term admission, although Orientation and classes will not start until early to mid August.
| Programs of Study | Offered | Priority Deadline | Final Deadline | Start Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M.S. DACSS | In-Person | January 1st | February 15th* | August (Summer) |
| Online | June 1st | July 15th | Fall | |
| Online | Let us know if you intend | Flexible | ||
Graduate coursework | Online | Register soon for | February 1st |
*Please contact us if you missed the deadline, as some spaces may become available.
After you apply
Students will ordinarily receive a decision from the Graduate School within a month of the relevant application deadline. Please respond to the Graduate School by APRIL 15 to indicate whether or not you plan to enroll. If you have not responded by April 15th, we will assume you do not plan to attend and may offer your spot to someone on the waitlist. Written requests for extensions to this deadline will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
We would appreciate hearing from any Priority Deadline Applicants by March 1 (in-person M.S.) so that any openings can be made available to other students.
Application Requirements
When you submit your application through the UMass Graduate School application portal, you will need to include the following materials:
Personal statement - This should address why you are interested in pursuing a degree in computational social science and describe what makes you a good fit for our program. Please be sure to describe any relevant research or programming experience, whether obtained in the classroom or in some other setting.
Resume or C.V.
Most recent official college transcript
Two Letters of Recommendation - Two recommendations are required (but you may submit a third if you feel it would provide another perspective). Include at least one current or former professor. Submit only the names of the recommenders; we will send an email to each referee with instructions on how to electronically deliver the recommendation to the Graduate School. All recommendations will be considered non-confidential unless the applicant waives their right of access.
TOEFL/IELTS - Results for international students without prior instruction in English.
GRE (optional, not required)
Writing sample (optional)
