Master in Data Science

Data science is an interdisciplinary field that uses computational, statistical, and mathematical methods to extract insights from large, complex, and heterogeneous datasets. It is a key driver of innovation in sectors such as finance, healthcare, engineering, and AI.

EPFL’s Master’s in Data Science delivers a rigorous education at the intersection of theory and application. The program covers core areas including machine learning, algorithms, natural language processing, databases, signal processing, and information theory. It combines a strong interdisciplinary foundation with flexibility through electives and optional minors.

Graduates gain the analytical and technical expertise to lead in research, industry, or entrepreneurship—developing advanced methods, building scalable systems, and shaping data-driven innovation worldwide.

Program structure

The program consists of two main components: the Master’s cycle (90 ECTS), followed by a Master’s project (30 ECTS), totaling 120 ECTS.

Notes:
  • Master’s cycle (90 ECTS): This includes at least 3 semesters of coursework (typically 30 ECTS per semester) with a maximum duration of 6 semesters. All semesters in the Master’s cycle must be completed at EPFL.
    • A complementary minor offered by another program at EPFL may be pursued.
    • If no minor is chosen, up to 15 ECTS from unlisted courses, that is, courses not included in the data science study plan, may be used to partially fulfill the Group 2 requirement.
  • Internship requirement: A mandatory industry internship must be completed, either as an 8-week summer internship or as a 6-month internship during a full semester. The internship may also be combined with the Master’s project at the end of the Master’s cycle.
  • Master’s project (30 ECTS) for a duration of 18 weeks (including 1 week of vacation) if completed at EPFL, or 26 weeks (including 1 week of vacation) if completed in industry or at another university in Switzerland or abroad. If the project is carried out at EPFL or another university, students must have completed and validated either an 8-week or 6-month internship in industry beforehand.

Key points

Current students can also download this study guide for easy reference about their studies.

Key Points for your MSc Studies In Data ScienceDownload (PDF, 831 KB)

Useful links