How do I apply to the Master of Applied Data Science?

The Master of Applied Data Science (MADS) welcomes applicants from all academic and professional backgrounds. 

The application process is designed to be straightforward: no application fee, no essays and no letters of recommendation. After you’re admitted, you’ll complete a placement test to determine the right starting point for you in the program, based on your programming skills.

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Start your application

Priority deadline: October 1, 2026 
Apply by this date to receive first consideration for UMSI scholarships.

Final deadline: November 15, 2026

Classes begin: January 13, 2027

Program start dates

We accept applications for three start dates:

• Fall term: Apply by July 15 to begin in late August/early September
• Winter term: Apply by November 15 to begin in early January
• Spring/Summer term: Apply by March 15 to begin in early May

Admission requirements

• Bachelor’s degree: A four-year undergraduate degree or international equivalent from an accredited institution, completed before starting classes in the MADS program.
• Programming skills: Basic proficiency in Python. Applicants with a deeper knowledge of Python have the opportunity to enter the program with credit already earned.
  • Not sure if you're ready? We recommend taking the Python 3 Programming Specialization, a low-cost online programming course taught by UMSI faculty. 
• English proficiency: You must submit an official score report from the TOEFL or IELTS, taken within the past two years, unless you meet one of the following criteria:
  • You are a native English speaker.
  • You completed your entire degree at an institution where all classes are taught in English.
  • You are a current University of Michigan student.

Application process

Step 1: Submit your application

Your application includes:

• Transcripts: Upload unofficial transcripts from all institutions where you have earned degrees. Official transcripts will be required if you are admitted. 
  • If you haven’t completed your degree, you can submit an in-progress transcript and follow up with a final one after graduation.
  • If you're unable to upload a transcript, you can have one sent directly from your institution to [email protected] or by mail to:
            University of Michigan School of Information
            ATTN: OASA, Transcripts
            2200 Hayward St., Suite 2260
            Ann Arbor, MI 48109
  • Note for international applicants: You might know your transcript as a full-marks sheet. Transcripts in a non-English language should be professionally translated into English before being sent to UMSI.
• English proficiency test (if applicable): Non-native English speakers must submit an official score report from the TOEFL or IELTS, taken within the past two years. U.S. citizenship or permanent residency does not automatically exempt you from this requirement. We accept the TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition and IELTS Online, which are equivalent to the in-person exams.
  • Recommended scores: 
    • TOEFL: 5+ overall and in each section on the new TOEFL scale (100+ overall with 25+ in each section on the previous TOEFL scale)
    • IELTS: 7+ overall and in each section

Step 2: Receive your decision

The admissions team will review your academic background and materials. Qualified applicants will be admitted to the MADS program, pending successful completion of the placement test.

Step 3: Find your placement

The placement test is a supportive tool to determine your starting point in the MADS program, based on your programming skills. Choose between: