Berkeley’s professional Master of Arts in Statistics & Data Science (MASDS) is an intensive, 10-month program combining rigorous statistical training with the hands-on application of modern data science. Designed for students pursuing professional careers, MASDS pairs a rigorous core curriculum with the opportunity to explore a specialized area of interest through a graduate-level elective.

MASDS is a professional degree focused on career preparation rather than PhD preparation or faculty-led research.

Program Summary

Ranked the #2 Best Graduate School for Statistics* (U.S. News & World Report, 2026), the Master of Arts in Statistics & Data Science (MASDS) brings together students from a wide range of academic backgrounds for rigorous graduate training in probability, theoretical statistics, statistical computing, modern applied statistics, and a capstone course.

Students can complement the core curriculum with an elective in areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, natural language processing, causal inference, optimization, time series, and more, developing advanced statistical and data science skills for a wide range of professional applications.

The 10-month, full-time program spans the fall and spring semesters and requires a minimum of 24 units and a comprehensive examination. Students learn alongside a diverse cohort in an inclusive, collaborative environment that brings together a wide range of perspectives, experiences, and career goals.

Where Are Our Graduates Now?

Our alumni work across top sectors—technology, healthcare, finance, environment, and more. Explore our Professional Development page to see where a Berkeley MA in Statistics & Data Science can take you.

Financial Aid Information

The UC Berkeley Department of Statistics encourages students from all backgrounds to apply for our professional master's degree. The Department is committed to the inclusion of diverse populations and to minimizing financial barriers. To achieve these goals and to remove financial barriers which may be restrictive, departmental financial support is made available.

MA Statistics & Data Science Student Community

Meet the people behind the program—explore cohort stats, student profiles, and learn how our students build community both inside and outside the classroom.

"I enjoyed my experience at Berkeley. I appreciate that the department holds many events to meet people and socialize within the department. The MA lounge was one of the most important factors to my success. It is where I've made my friends and learned from my peers."

— Kaitlin Smith, Class of 2023

"Our program is definitely one of the best statistics programs in the world, with both rigorous theory and applied knowledge! Besides, the faculty support is so strong and make me be more confident to accept any challenges! I am so proud of being a graduate student here, and will work harder in the future to enable more talents join us!"

— Rachel Hu, Class of 2019