Master of Science in Data Science for Learning Applications (DSLA)

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Data Science for Learning Applications (DSLA) online program prepares professionals to lead innovation in educational technology and analytics across PK–12, higher education, corporate, nonprofit, and government settings. This fully online program equips you with the skills to design, analyze, and evaluate data-driven learning solutions that improve equity and outcomes for diverse learners.

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.

• Prepare to design and implement effective, data-informed learning experiences in face-to-face, online, and blended environments.

Curriculum

The DSLA curriculum is designed by practitioner-scholar faculty from both Rossier and 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.

Online Learning Experience

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.

Career Support

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

• Resume and portfolio reviews tailored to data and learning careers.

• 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.

Scholarships

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.

Financial Aid

The USC Office of Student Financial Aid provides information regarding various types of financial aid and financing options.

To be considered for financial aid, you must apply for the FAFSA. After you apply, the financial aid office will determine your financial need and inform you of the federal or private loans that are available to you.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the DSLA program are prepared for careers that merge education, analytics, and technology. 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.