Academics»Communication Data Science (MS)

Master of Science in Communication Data Science

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You will acquire a data-native mindset and a unique skill set that prepares you for a career spanning communication, content strategy and data analytics.

In a rapidly changing world where gathering, interpreting and analyzing data is increasingly essential, modern organizations are seeking professionals who can leverage both data and theory to shape their communication strategies. This first-of-its-kind degree program is situated in one of the world’s premiere hubs for the technology and media industries. Offered jointly by USC Annenberg and the USC Viterbi School of Engineering, the program blends advanced courses on media, marketing, and the human and social aspects of communication with foundational computer programming courses and advanced courses on data science, machine learning, data visualization, human-computer interaction, data stewardship, and AI ethics.

The data-native mindset you will acquire in this STEM-designated degree program will equip you to lead diverse, interdisciplinary project teams in delivering solutions to a broad range of stakeholders.

Program Information

Application information

By the numbers

#1
school for studying communication and mediaIn 2024, QS World University Rankings named USC the foremost school for studying communication and media in the U.S.
In 2024, QS World University Rankings named USC the foremost school for studying communication and media in the U.S.
100% %
of students take classes in data science fundamentalsOur students gain an interdisciplinary skill set that combines data science fundamentals with expertise in communication.
Our students gain an interdisciplinary skill set that combines data science fundamentals with expertise in communication.
220
different languages are spoken by the people of Los AngelesThe complex, dynamic and culturally rich city of L.A. is home to people from more than 140 countries.
The complex, dynamic and culturally rich city of L.A. is home to people from more than 140 countries.
#10
school for studying engineeringIn 2020, U.S. News and World Report ranked USC Viterbi as one of the top engineering programs in the U.S.
In 2020, U.S. News and World Report ranked USC Viterbi as one of the top engineering programs in the U.S.
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STEM-designated degree program

Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) designated programs provide the interdisciplinary skills needed to drive the future of communication and business. The MS in Communication Data Science program qualifies as a STEM-designated degree program by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and provides potential extension of employment opportunities in the U.S. for international graduates via application for a 24-month extension of a 12-month Optional Practical Training (OPT) authorization.

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Communication Data Science (MS) faculty

Jessica Neff
Jessica Neff
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Emilio Ferrara
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Morten Bay
Dmitri Williams
Dmitri Williams
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Next steps

  Attend a USC Annenberg event Engage with the speakers, artists, journalists and communicators of today.   Stay in touch Let us know if you’d like to receive more information about the Communication Data Science program.   See our school Explore USC Annenberg at the heart of the USC campus in Los Angeles, California.   Get started on your application Take the first steps toward your unique USC experience.