- Computation听which will focus on programming, data structures, computer systems, and methods.
- Data Analysis听which will focus on data exploration, analysis, prediction, inference and algorithms.
- Practice听aimed to impart workplace skills, ethical standards, and awareness of data science to date.
The Vanderbilt Master of Science in Data Science is an in person 9-month, 4-mod, 30 credit program, which includes the completion and presentation of a capstone project (read more on Capstones HERE).听 Students will be trained in the three core sequences, gain practical experience, and sharpen workplace skills (teamwork, communication, leadership). Below is an example of course sequencing.
Plan of Study 2026 - 2027
Capstone Project Assignments听
DS 5210 Intro to Programming (1cr)
DS 5110 Intro to Probability (1cr)
DS 5310 Mathematics of Machine Learning (1cr)
Probability & Statistical Inference (2cr)听
Principles in Programming and Simulation (2cr)听
Survey of Data Science Applications (2cr)听
Exploratory Data Analysis (2cr)听
Data Science Rights & Responsibility (2cr)听
Machine Learning (2cr)听
Data Management Systems (2cr)
Elective (2cr)听
Data Science Algorithms (2cr)听
Big Data Scaling (2cr)听
Data Science Teamwork in Practice (2cr)听
Generative AI Models in Theory and Practice (2cr)听
Deep Learning (2cr)听
Data Storytelling and Communication (2cr)听
Elective (2cr)听
Capstone Development (0cr)听
What is the Mod System?
Vanderbilt鈥檚 M.S. in Data Science runs on a听four-module (鈥淢od鈥) calendar, short, intensive terms that let you master one cluster of skills before moving to the next. It鈥檚 fast, focused, and built for momentum.
Course Descriptions
Elective Course Descriptions
The following are some possible electives that you may take to fulfill your elective credit requirements that have been pre-approved. Many of these courses have pre-requisites or require instructor approval, so please contact the individual department before enrolling in your choices. You may take your internship or participate in a research practicum for credit and that will count towards your elective credits.
Course Descriptions
Electives Students Have Taken in the Past
*Taking classes from Owen (MGT) may be the most convenient; we share the same academic schedule and their classes are also 2 credits.听
Pre-Approved Computer Science Electives
CS Classes are not recommended for anyone without a CS background.
Please note: Course descriptions and numbers are tentative and subject to change