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    University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

    Master of Applied Data Science (MADS)

    Last verified against the official program page on .

    Chapel Hill, USMADSOnline16 months
    STEM-OPT
    $52,802.00
    Tuition
    over 16mo
    30
    Credits
    $95.00
    App fee

    Master of Applied Data Science (MADS) at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a 30-credit, 16-month, online MADS program based in Chapel Hill, US. Tuition is $52,802 and the program is STEM-OPT eligible for international students.

    About the program

    The program covers the data life cycle, including collecting, processing, managing, and analyzing data, with focus on advanced programming, machine learning, big data, AI ethics, data visualization, and a team-based capstone with real-world partners.

    Focus: coursework
    Part-time option

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    Deadlines

    Fall 2026
    Jun 9, 2026
    August 2026
    Jul 7, 2026

    Standardized tests

    TOEFL
    required
    Min The internet-based TOEFL exam: TOEFL tests taken prior to January 26, 2026 = 90; TOEFL tests taken on or after January 26, 2026 = 5; Duolingo English Test = 110
    IELTS
    required
    Min IELTS scores (reported directly from IELTS.org)

    After the program

    Post-study work rights

    12 months OPT (US), 24 months STEM OPT (US)

    $21,000.00
    Annual living cost

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    Self-reported profiles of past applicants to this program.

    Prerequisites

    Specific coursework this program expects you to have completed: calculus, linear algebra, programming, statistics, and subject-specific prerequisites where applicable.

    Recommendations

    Exact count of letters required, whether academic vs professional references are preferred, and any program-specific guidance on who to ask.

    Essays

    Number of essays required (statement of purpose, personal statement, diversity statement), prompts where the program publishes them, and whether supplemental essays are optional or mandatory.

    Contact

    Direct email and phone for the admissions office handling this program, plus a link to the program-specific inquiry page where available.

    Frequently asked questions

    How much does Master of Applied Data Science (MADS) at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill cost?
    The total estimated tuition for Master of Applied Data Science (MADS) at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is $52,802 across 30 required credits.
    Is Master of Applied Data Science (MADS) at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill online or in-person?
    Master of Applied Data Science (MADS) at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is offered online, so students can complete coursework remotely.
    How long does Master of Applied Data Science (MADS) at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill take to complete?
    Master of Applied Data Science (MADS) at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is structured around 16 months and 30 credits.
    Is Master of Applied Data Science (MADS) at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill STEM-OPT eligible?
    Yes - Master of Applied Data Science (MADS) at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is STEM-OPT designated, allowing international graduates to extend their post-completion OPT for up to 36 months total.
    What work-permit options follow Master of Applied Data Science (MADS) at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill?
    Post-completion work rights for Master of Applied Data Science (MADS) at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill: 12 months OPT (US), 24 months STEM OPT (US)