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Align MS in Data Science

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Today, all companies are driven by data and the demand for expertise in data science has never been higher. The Align MS in Data Science will teach you the skills to harness the power of data, even without a tech background. Study with a supportive cohort of your peers as you spend the first two semesters building a solid CS foundation. Then, you’ll dive deep into the world of data, learning to use it to solve some of the world’s most complex organizational problems.

Explore program requirements in the course catalog

Program highlights

Semester hours

44 total semester hours required

Start term

Fall, Spring (spring varies depending on location)

Program modality

In person

Career prospects and top employers

In the digital age, every industry relies on data to stay competitive. Companies of all sizes across the country are actively looking to fill thousands of data-driven roles. Our graduates find success in a variety of companies such as Walmart, Meta, Google, CVS Health, Dell, Fidelity Investments, Microsoft, McKinsey & Company, Tesla, ACLU, Massachusetts General Hospital, and more in careers that include:

  • Data scientist
  • Machine learning engineer
  • Software engineer
  • Data engineer
  • AI consultant

What makes Align different

Learn about the successful collaboration between Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Align students, and what makes it different: “We’re not just bringing in trained engineers. We’re bringing a set of folks who have a different set of perspectives, a different set of experiences. They bring a fresh understanding — a fresh set of eyes,” says Wayne Duso, former AWS vice president.

How the Align program works

An equation showing how the Align program works. 2 semesters of bridge classes, plus 2 semesters of graduate classes, plus 1 four- to eight-month co-op or internship, plus 1-2 semesters of graduate classes, equals of Master of Science Degree in Computer Science, Data Science, or Cybersecurity
a graphic showing how the Align program works. 2 semesters of bridge classes plus 2 semesters of MSCS classes plus 1 four- to eight-month co-op or internship plus 1 semester of MSCS classes equals the Align MS in Computer Science

Learning outcomes

The Align MS in Data Science will equip you with technical knowledge and career preparation. As a a graduate, you will have gained proficiency in:

  • Data management: Ability to effectively utilize integrated databases for managing large-scale datasets.
  • Machine learning: Ability to effectively apply an appropriate machine-learning model to a problem.
  • Analysis and visualization: Ability to effectively communicate insights derived from data.

Bridging the gap: the Align advantage

Learn about Align student LeAnn’s experience entering the program with a non-tech undergraduate degree, and how the Align program has given her a way to break into the field.

Campus locations

  • A view of a port in Portland, Maine with three boats docked at a pier.

    Portland

    The collaborative nature of Northeastern’s Roux Institute in Portland connects students with corporate and governmental power players across the Northeast, and beyond.

    Explore Portland's campus

  • Silicon Valley

    Located in the heart of the tech revolution (and where it began), the San Jose campus offers students the opportunities to advance the CS field in a program known for industry connections and diverse work opportunities.

    Explore Silicon Valley's campus
  • Students walk by West Village H on the Boston campus. A large, white KHOURY sign is next to the students. West Village H rises in the background.

    Boston

    Located in the heart of Boston, Northeastern’s oldest campus is home to a vibrant community of students, researchers, and faculty working across disciplines to build a better world through CS.

    Explore Boston's campus

Applications and admissions

Our Align Apply page has everything you need to know about applying to the Align MS in Computer Science program at Khoury college, including:

  • Align admissions requirements
  • Timelines and deadlines
  • Resources and contact information
Learn about applying to Align

Visit Student Financial Services for current tuition and fee information, and to find tools and calculators to help you estimate the cost of your degree, based on 44 required semester hours.

Visit Student Financial Services

Pursuing a master’s degree is a significant investment in your future. Northeastern University and Khoury College of Computer Sciences are here to help support you in any way we can. From financial aid to scholarship opportunities to co-op placements and teaching assistantships, there are multiple options to help fund your degree as you work toward your goals.

Learn more about financial support

Deadlines

September 15

Spring international student application deadline

December 1

Spring domestic student application deadline

April 15

Fall international student application deadline

August 1

Fall domestic student application deadline

Featured faculty

Get to know the engaged, experienced professors who are here to support you every step of the way.

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Kylie Ariel Bemis

Kylie Ariel Bemis is an assistant teaching professor at Khoury College, who develops the master’s in data science program curriculum. She is interested in statistical computing environments and methods for complex data, and active in outreach to the Native American and LGBTQ+ communities.

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Find answers in our FAQ, or complete this form to learn more about the Align MS in Data Science program. One of our enrollment counselors will contact you soon.

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