MSDS Admissions & Cost

We admit applicants from a variety of different backgrounds, including sciences and engineering, social sciences, and arts and humanities.

In addition to linear math (college algebra) and computer science courses, we recommend that students applying to the MSDS or MSIS program have programming experience in one or more of the following computer languages and/or areas:

We offer undergraduate courses that can help remediate deficiencies or you may pursue other courses from the University of Arizona (e.g., ISTA 311, 131, 130, 321) or other institutions. Undergraduate courses taken for remediation purposes may not be applied for graduate credit. INFO 511 is also an option—you can apply this course toward your program if accepted as a degree-seeking student.

Application Checklist

You are required to submit the following materials as part of your online application. Your application will not be processed until all required information is received.

1. Academic Statement of Purpose

Write a 750- to 1,000-word Statement of Purpose indicating why you are interested in the program and what skills and experience you have that will make you a successful candidate for the degree. Learn more about the Statement of Purpose.

2. Transcripts

Upload unofficial transcripts from ALL higher educational institutions attended as part of the online application. (Please note that unofficial transcripts are needed from each individual institution even if they are listed on the final transcript where the degree was issued.)

Official e-transcripts can be sent to transcripts@grad.arizona.edu directly from the institution. Official transcripts can be requested after the Graduate College has provided requirements in their letter once admission has occurred.

3. English Language Proficiency

Proof of English proficiency is required for any international applicant born in a country where English is not the official language. Please check our English Requirement list to verify your need to submit an English proficiency test. These tests must be dated within 2 years of the enrollment term to be considered valid.

Acceptable English Proficiency tests are: 

• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): Minimum score of 79 iBT (or 60 on the revised PBT with no section score lower than 15).  Individual MyBest scores must also be dated within 2 years of the enrollment term to be considered valid.
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS): Minimum composite score of 7, with no subject area below a 6
• Pearson PTE Academic: Minimum score of 60
• Graduate English Language Endorsement from the Center for English as a Second Language (CESL)
• CEPT Full Academic Test: Offered by our Center for English as a Second Language (CESL), minimum Total score of 110.

Those exempt from submitting English proficiency scores are:

• Applicants from countries where English is the official language.
• Applicants who have completed a bachelor's or graduate degree at a regionally accredited institution in the United States, or an approved institution in an official English speaking country. Degree must not be older than 2 years from the term of enrollment.
• Applicants who have completed 2 years of full-time academic study must have 48 upper division, graded undergraduate semester units or 30 graded, graduate semester units.

Upload your unofficial TOEFL scores as part of the online application. You must also submit official scores through ETS using institution code 4832.

4. Letters of Recommendation

Provide email addresses and contact information for two recommenders in the ‘Letters of Recommendation’ section of the online application. The letter of recommendations must be received prior to the deadline for applications to be reviewed.

5. Resumé/CV

Upload a current resumé or curriculum vitae (CV) as part of the online application in the ‘Supplemental Questions’ section.