Online Master of Information and Data Science
Master’s in Data Science Online from UC Berkeley
The number 1–ranked Master of Information and Data Science (MIDS) program,* delivered online, prepares students to be leaders in the data science field.
The online professional master’s program brings UC Berkeley to students, wherever they are. The program blends a multidisciplinary curriculum, experienced faculty from UC Berkeley and top data-driven companies, an accomplished network of peers, and the flexibility of online learning. The 27-unit program can be completed in 12 to 32 months depending on your pace, with no GRE required.
What Will You Learn in the Online MIDS Curriculum?
The multidisciplinary online data science master’s curriculum draws upon computer science, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, social sciences, statistics, management, and law. Students use the latest tools and analytical methods to work with data at scale, derive insights from complex and unstructured data, and solve real-world problems.
The core curriculum focuses on the following essential and specialized skills:
- Machine Learning & Deep Learning
- Generative AI & LLMs
- Natural Language Processing (NLP)
- Data Engineering & Infrastructure
- AI Ethics, Policy & Responsible Innovation
- Applied Statistics & Research Design
- Product Thinking & Communication
See the full course-by-course curriculum, including foundation, advanced, and capstone requirements.
Experiential, project-based learning is a hallmark of the MIDS program. Students work collaboratively with the latest tools, environments, and processes on real-world data science problems, so they are prepared to work as leaders in the industry.
What Is the Online Learning Experience Like?
The online master’s in data science combines advanced technology and in-person experiences to ensure you benefit from the full UC Berkeley School of Information (I School) experience.
Find all of the online tools you need to succeed in one place: the virtual campus.
- Access your weekly Zoom classes, where you will engage in meaningful discussions.
- Complete coding work through seamless GitHub integration in the virtual campus.
- View upcoming course work and deadlines with one click on your dashboard.
- Attend class or complete course work from anywhere.
How Long Does the Online MIDS Program Take?
The 27-unit online program is designed for the working professional and can be completed at a flexible pace.
- The standard path is designed for working professionals to complete part-time and can be completed in 20 months, with two courses per semester.
- The accelerated path gives students the opportunity to take three courses per semester to complete the program in only 12 months.
- The decelerated path allows students to drop down to one course per semester after the first term and complete the program in no more than 32 months.
What Careers Can You Pursue With an Online MIDS?
Graduates work as data scientists, data engineers, data analysts, machine learning engineers, and analytical managers across technology, healthcare, financial services, retail, and the public sector. Many move into leadership roles designing and managing data teams rather than remaining in individual contributor positions.
Explore data science career paths and the industries hiring MIDS graduates.
The demand picture is unusually strong. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of data scientists to grow 34% from 2024 to 2034, making it the fourth fastest-growing occupation in the U.S. economy and roughly eleven times the 3% average across all occupations. About 23,400 openings are projected each year over the decade, with total employment rising from 245,900 to 328,300.
Pay reflects that demand. The median annual wage for data scientists was $112,590 as of May 2024, more than double the $49,500 median across all occupations, and higher still in scientific research and development services at $120,090.
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
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What Courses Will You Take in the Online MIDS Program?
The MIDS curriculum features a wide range of courses that provide students with a comprehensive understanding of how data science can be used to inform decision-making in their organizations. Students will complete programming-focused courses, like the featured courses below, in conjunction with courses that focus on the ethical impact of data science and how to effectively communicate results.
Applied Machine Learning
Students will learn how to apply crucial machine learning techniques to solve problems, run evaluations and interpret results, and understand scaling up from thousands of data points to billions.
Behind the Data: Humans and Values
This course examines the legal, policy, and ethical issues that arise throughout the full life cycle of data science. Students use case studies to explore these issues across various domains, such as criminal justice, national security, health, marketing, politics, education, and employment.
Fundamentals of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI)
This course is a broad introduction to neural network architectures, algorithms, and computing hardware. Students will explore the historical aspects and key learnings of artificial intelligence; learn how to deploy, use, and train LLMs; and discuss challenges and opportunities offered by generative AI.