You don’t need a background in technology to have a future in it. Technology thrives on new, diverse, and unexpected ideas—it needs new perspectives. So in 2013, we launched the Align Program a—master’s degree in computer science for people with a bachelor’s in a nontechnical field. After much success, we’re now launching the Align Program for a master’s in data science.
The Align curriculum is specifically designed to prepare incoming students with the knowledge and exposure they need for the rigors of graduate study. You’ll begin with two bridge semesters that help you transition into the study of data science. The Align program operates on a cohort model, meaning you will study with other students who come from a nontech background. You’ll have access to a network of enhanced academic support including advising, teaching assistants, and tutoring, as well as an Align-specific career prep seminar, designed to help you transition from your current field into the world of tech.
Interdisciplinary learning is at the heart of our data science program. This shared curriculum between Khoury College of Computer Sciences and the College of Engineering will provide you the comprehensive expertise in mathematics, computer science, and data engineering necessary to thrive.
Offered in both our Silicon Valley and Portland, ME, campuses, our program will help you emerge from your studies prepared for wherever data leads you.
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Unique Features
- As an interdisciplinary program between Khoury College of Computer Sciences and the College of Engineering, Align MS in Data Science combines expertise across mathematics, computing, and data engineering.
- Gain theoretical foundations and extensive hands-on experience in the field, including data acquisition, storage, analysis, probabilistic modeling, model deployment, and presentation.
- Shape your curriculum beyond your core requirements with a wide range of interdisciplinary courses, including computer science, engineering, life sciences, physics, social sciences, and business.
- Through our co-op and internship opportunities, you can bring what you learn in class to the real world and the skills you learn in the real world back to class.
Program Objectives
The objective of this program is to provide a well-rounded education and a comprehensive foundation in all areas related to data collection, hypothesis, analysis, and reporting, regardless of your previous tech experience.
Career Outlook
Nearly every industry needs people with data science skills. In the last year, there were roughly 25,000 job postings in the U.S. seeking data scientists. Of these, 48% required or preferred candidates with a master’s degree and 60% required or preferred candidates with a graduate degree (master’s or doctoral). The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the demand for data science skills will drive a 28% rise in employment in the field through 2026. Our graduates have gone on to a range of exciting careers across every industry, including Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Quantitative Researcher, Machine Learning Engineer, and Natural Language Processing/OCR engineer.


