Graduate

MS in Data Intelligence

Master of Science in Data Intelligence

Offered jointly by Industrial and Management Systems Engineering and Computer Science and Engineering

The Master of Science in Data Intelligence provides engineers, scientists and professionals with the data synthesis, modeling and computational skills necessary to extract intelligence and knowledge from data and utilize them in business decision making. This program is offered fully online/primarily distance learning (PD) and in person, as well as part-time and full-time. The classes offered in PD mode may require students to be on campus for instructor proctored quizzes/exams and group activities. However, students away from campus may use proctoring services (upon USF approval) available at their location minimizing their need to appear in-person. 

Program Details

In this 30-credit program, all students will take the following 14 credits of core courses:

  • Statistical Foundations of Data Intelligence (3 credits)
  • Applied Data Intelligence (3 credits)
  • Data Structure Essentials (2 credits)
  • Data Mining (3 credits)
  • Optimization Methods with Applications (3 credits)

For the remaining 16 credit hours, students can choose one of the two program specialization tracks offered or tailor the program based on their interests with the general data intelligence track, each one has different course requirements and learning formats: 

Decision Intelligence Track

This track is for students interested in topics covering statistical and machine learning approaches to data-driven dynamic decision-making in areas including system design and optimization, supply chain and logistics, among others. This track is synchronous with primarily distance learning and in-person classes available. 

Computational Intelligence Track

This track is for students interested in computing and learning how to effectively mine information from large databases and use them to learn  trends and predict outcomes in business and industry. This track is asynchronous with online classes and has the same courses as the Graduate Certificate in Artificial Intelligence.

General Data Intelligence Track

Choose a combination of courses from the Decision Intelligence Track and Computational Intelligence Track. This track is synchronous with fully online, primarily distance learning (PD), and in-person classes available.

International applicants:  Please note that to meet international student visa requirements, students must be enrolled full-time each semester (fall and spring), which is at least nine credit hours (only up to three of these credit hours can be online). Due to these restrictions, international students may only be able to select either the Decision Intelligence Track or the General Data Intelligence Track. For questions about student visa requirements, contact USF International Services.

Additional program and course related information

Admissions Requirements

  • Minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or higher

  • Minimum GRE scores:

    • Analytical Writing 3.0 or higher
    • Combined Quantitative and Verbal 300 or higher
    • Quantitative 156 or higher
  • Adequate background in mathematics and computer programming
  • For international students: The equivalent undergraduate and/or graduate degrees from a foreign institution

How to Apply

  1. Submit a graduate application online with the $30 application fee.

  2. Upload the following to the application website:

    1. One page statement of purpose

    2. Three professional and/or academic letters of recommendation

    3. Resume or CV

    4. Official GRE scores

    5. Unofficial transcript

  3. Send an official transcript from each institution of higher learning attended to:

    USF Office of Admissions
    4202 E. Fowler Ave. SVC 1036
    Tampa, FL 33620-2910

    An unofficial copy may be uploaded with your online application to expedite the process. If you received an undergraduate degree from USF, you are not required to submit transcripts.

  4. Submit official TOEFL scores directly from the testing agency. International applicants only. USF’s code is 5828.

Application Deadline

  • June 1 for a fall start
  • Oct. 15 for a spring start

For information on how to apply to the Master’s in Data Intelligence program and admission requirements, download the program brochure.

Download Brochure

Choosing between online/primarily distance learning and on campus (in-person)

There are unique benefits to both studying online/primarily distance learning and studying on campus. On-campus learning allows you to benefit from a variety of campus activities that support your growth in leadership, teamwork, communication, community engagement, and research. Whether you want more flexibility or value in-person learning, it’s important to choose the right option for you.

USF MS in Data Intelligence and MS in Industrial Engineering
  Online/Classroom-based MS in Data Intelligence Classroom-Based MS in Industrial Engineering*
  FL Resident and Non-Resident FL Resident Non-Resident
Tuition cost per credit hour $650 x 30 credits $467.34 x 30 credits $913.08 x 30 credits
Total program  tuition cost $19,500 $14,020.20 $27,392.40
  Total program cost estimates do not include application fees, late fees, registration fees, educational resources (e.g., textbooks, etc.) or the one-time new graduate student fee.
 

Please note: With the exception of the Department of Children and Family (DCF) waivers, all other waivers (including State of Florida and USF employee) are not accepted for Self-Funded/Self-Supporting or Market Rate Tuition program courses.

For additional information, visit: USF Tuition Waiver

To learn more about the classroom-based program tuition fees per credit hour, please visit: USF Tuition and Fee Information

*Some fees may vary per campus location.

For additional financial aid info, visit: https://www.usf.edu/financial-aid

FAQs

Who should enroll in this program? 
This program is ideal for industry professionals engaged in implementing data intelligence in decision making who want to further their careers as well as students from a STEM background who want to earn a degree in data intelligence.

My background is not in engineering or mathematics/statistics. Can I still apply for the MSDI degree?
A bachelor’s degree in STEM with basic foundations in calculus, statistics and computer programming is required to apply, as well as hands-on computer programming experience.

How can I estimate the cost of obtaining a master’s degree?
 Visit the Office of Financial Aid.

Can the department evaluate my chances of getting admitted before I submit an official application?
No. The department will only evaluate official applications submitted through the USF Office of Admissions.

Where should I send all supporting documents (e.g., resume, recommendation letters, etc.)?
Documents should be attached to your online application. Please do not email/mail your documents to the IMSE department.

I have questions about supporting documents (e.g., resume, recommendations, etc.). Who should I contact?
Please contact our program Admissions Recruiter Advisor for information on how to apply, admission requirements, and supporting documents needed.

I am an international student. Am I required to send documents proving my financial status at the time of application?
Financial documents are not required at the time of application but might be needed after admission. For additional details about the international student admission into the Master’s in Data Intelligence, please contact our program Admissions Recruiter Advisor.