Master of Science in Data Science for Learning Applications

Learn to translate complex data into meaningful insights that improve learner success. Build solutions that are not only data-informed, but also human-centered and equitable.

Apply Now

Fall Term Application Opens: August 1, 2026

See all

Get more information about this program

Modalities Online
Length 32 units
Full-Time: 21 Months
Part-Time: 24 Months
Scholarships Up to $15,000 in Merit-Based Scholarship
Start Date The program will reopen August, 1 2026 for an August 2027 start.

Improve Learning Outcomes Through Data

The Master of Science in Data Science for Learning Applications (DSLA) at USC is a joint program between the USC Rossier School of Education and the USC Viterbi School of Engineering. Students gain hands-on experience in data collection, data analysis, and the application of analytics to improve instructional design, learner support, and educational outcomes.

Graduates are equipped for roles such as data analyst, learning analytics specialist, LMS analyst, and educational technology consultant. The program includes coursework in both learning theory and advanced data science methods, offering a unique interdisciplinary foundation for careers at the intersection of education and technology.

Through this program, you will:

Earn a master’s degree jointly offered by USC Rossier and USC Viterbi, two schools with strong reputations among employers.
Continue working full time while taking fully online courses.
Learn to apply data science and learning theory to inform instructional design and learner support.
Build skills in programming, analytics, and machine learning to predict and improve learner outcomes.

The DSLA curriculum is designed by practitioner-scholar faculty from both USC Rossier and USC Viterbi, with input from industry leaders. The program will prepare you to meet three key outcomes:

Apply learning science and motivation principles to design instruction that supports diverse learners.
Select and implement data science methods and tools to analyze learning performance and engagement.
Design evaluation strategies that use analytics to measure instructional impact and support equitable opportunities.

Rather than focusing solely on technical skills, the program emphasizes an interdisciplinary understanding of both data science and learning. As a capstone, you will design a real-world, data-informed learning solution that demonstrates mastery of theories, methods, and applications.

The online learning experience blends interaction with student colleagues and faculty during live class sessions and self-paced coursework assignments submitted through the learning management system. Faculty facilitate live class sessions that include interactive, engaging and collaborative small-group discussions.

In addition to coursework, the DSLA student support team helps you strengthen your career prospects with:

Networking opportunities with alumni and education technology professionals.
Mentorship programs with experts in data science and education.
Webinars and resources focused on careers in analytics, instructional design, and edtech.

As an applicant, you will be automatically considered for limited, merit-based scholarships of up to $15,000. There is no need to submit a separate application for these scholarships. The admission committee selects recipients based on academic achievement, demonstrated dedication to the USC Rossier mission and other distinguishing characteristics. Priority consideration is given to those who apply by the Rossier Scholarship Deadline. All USC Rossier scholarships are awarded at the time of admission.

View USC Rossier’s scholarship finder to identify other scholarships and funding opportunities. You do not have to be admitted to apply to these scholarships. Carefully note the scholarship application deadlines, which may occur before the final program application deadline.

Career Outcomes

Potential roles include:

Learning analytics specialist
Data analyst or LMS analyst
Educational technology consultant
Instructional designer with an analytics focus
Performance and learning analyst
Training and development manager
Opportunities span PK–12 schools, universities, corporate learning and development, nonprofits, edtech companies, and government agencies.

Curriculum

What You’ll Learn

The DSLA curriculum is designed by practitioner-scholar faculty from both USC Rossier and USC Viterbi, with input from industry leaders.

Rather than focusing solely on technical skills, the program emphasizes an interdisciplinary understanding of both data science and learning. You’ll learn how to design a real-world, data-informed learning solution that demonstrates mastery of theories, methods, and applications.

Want to see more?

View All Courses

Principles of Programming for Data Science

Learn Python by working with real-world data from the web. Build the skills to retrieve, clean, and analyze large datasets to uncover meaningful insights.

Implementing Principles of Instructional Design

Learn how to design effective learning experiences from the ground up. Explore how to align content, media, and tools to create engaging, goal-driven instruction.

Data Science at Scale

Work with large, complex datasets using modern data science tools and techniques. Learn how to store, process, and analyze data at scale using machine learning, data mining, and distributed systems.

Designing Assessment and Evaluation

Learn how to measure learning and performance across different environments. Develop practical approaches to designing assessments and using data to evaluate outcomes and improve instruction.