Admissions
How do I apply?
Visit the links below to see more campus admissions information on each program. Data Science programs are eligible for STEM-OPT under CIP code 110199.
To qualify for OPT, students must be in the US on an F-1 visa in order to apply for OPT/STEM OPT. If a student is participating in the online program outside of the US, they would not be eligible to apply for OPT.
When you are ready, click the “Apply Now” button, which leads to the University of Missouri’s Graduate School website. Once you are there, create an account in order to submit your application for the Master’s in Data Science & Analytics program or the Graduate Certificate Program.
We started accepting applications for Fall 2021 on October 1, 2020. Our deadline for Fall 2021 is April 14, 2021. You should have your documents ready before you begin the application process.
Based on what date your application is submitted and complete, the admissions committee plans to review and make decisions according to the timeline table below.
| Apply by | Notification Date |
| Nov 4, 2020 | Dec 1, 2020 |
| Dec 2, 2020 | Dec 21, 2020 |
| Feb 3, 2021 | Mar 1, 2021 |
| Deadline April 14, 2021 | May 7, 2021 |
Data Science & Analytics
Master’s Program
Certificate Program
Program Requirements
The MU Master’s in Data Science and Analytics and the Graduate Certificate Program are designed to meet the needs of working professionals.
All applications are evaluated holistically, with admission being based on previous academic achievement, work experience, and the desire to succeed in the data science field. To be matriculated into the program, applicants must be accepted by the Data Science and Analytics program as well as meet the minimum requirements of the Graduate School at the University of Missouri.
Various Backgrounds
Students in the Data Science and Analytics programs come from a wide variety of academic and professional backgrounds, and therefore enter the program with varying degrees of programming competencies.
GPA
Minimum GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 hours of undergrad education demonstrate strengths needed to succeed in the DSA, however, consideration will be given to GPA’s lower than 3.0 balanced with industry experience.
Undergraduate Degree
A bachelor’s degree or its approved equivalent is necessary to pursue graduate work at the University of Missouri.
No Graduate Record Examinations
While the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is not required for entry in the program, applicants are encouraged to provide scores if they feel it will strengthen their application.
Command of English Language
If English is not your native language, a TOEFL score of at least 80 (internet-based test) or an IELTS score of at least 6.5 is required and must be dated within the last two years.
What do I need to include in my application?
Minimum Requirements to Apply
Transcripts
Copies of your transcripts from each post-secondary institution attended are required for application consideration. Applicants must submit official transcripts only after being accepted by the program.
Personal Statement
The Personal Statement is required for consideration and must succinctly convey the applicant’s interest in the Data Science and Analytics program of their choice and demonstrate their ability to succeed in a rigorous graduate program.
Resume
Resume or curriculum vitae that outlines your academic, professional and community service experience is required to spotlight your capacities and your suitability for the program.
Application Fee
Application for consideration requires a $65 application fee for domestic students or $90 for international students. Graduate certificate applicants pay a $35 application fee.
Preferred Additional Requirements
Letters of Recommendation
Letters of recommendation are not required for application consideration. However, many students provide one to two letters that demonstrate their ability to succeed in an academic and/or professional environment. Applicants who wish to provide letters of recommendation must do so through Slate, the online application system.
Programming and Computational Skills
While knowledge of Python and R is preferred, applicants accepted into the program will have the opportunity to review necessary fundamentals through “boot camps” to get up to speed before the start of classes.
Testimonials
Helpful Links
*The University reserves the right to make changes at any time in any or all tuition and fees without advance notice, with all modification of fees to be effective irrespective as to whether fees have or have not been paid by or on behalf of a student prior to the effective date of the modification.