Master of Science in Applied Data Intelligence

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Immerse deep into the realms of data intelligence, data engineering and cutting-edge generative AI models such as Large Language Models (LLM) with the Master of Science in Applied Data Intelligence (MSADI), crafted in collaboration with industry leaders from Silicon Valley. Over the span of two years, you can complete this comprehensive 30-unit program, paving the way for advanced careers in data-centric fields. As a result, more than 200 Silicon Valley companies have employed our students for internships and permanent positions. 

The Department of Applied Data Science offers interdisciplinary programs, collaborates closely with Silicon Valley professionals, and specializes in data analytics, data engineering, data science, and generative AI to meet the growing demand for practical, real-world data solutions. 

Silicon Valley is a global hub for innovation and AI advancement, with an increasing need for skilled professionals driven by the rapid development of intelligent applications. To ensure curriculum relevance, the department actively engages with top data professionals and companies. Local technology and domain experts contribute through teaching, seminars and mentorship. Faculty maintain strong industry ties and regularly update course content to reflect evolving technologies and practices.

The department is an academic hub, in partnership with other SJSU departments and industry partners, for promoting education and research in applied data science. In order to address the immense demands of data science professionals, the department launched an MS in Data Analytics program in August 2018 and updated the name to MS in Applied Data Intelligence in 2025.

The MSADI program provides students with the advanced education necessary to develop applied data science solutions. This includes processing and analyzing data from multiple sources, building data pipelines, extracting insights and developing full-stack solutions. By leveraging data engineering, applied data science and analytical skills, students learn to tackle practical problems comprehensively from start to finish.

Program Snapshot

MSDA Data Points, 30 Unites, 10 Courses, Fall and Spring Admission

Program Overview

The MSADI program prepares students for careers in data-driven problem-solving through a comprehensive, industry-aligned curriculum. The program emphasizes:

  • Processing and analyzing data from multiple sources.
  • Building scalable data pipelines and cloud-based solutions.
  • Developing machine learning, deep learning, and generative AI models.
  • Extracting actionable insights to drive business and research innovation.
  • Applying full-stack solutions to real-world data challenges.

Industry-Relevant Curriculum

Students gain expertise in the entire data intelligence lifecycle, from defining business problems to implementing advanced AI solutions. The curriculum covers:

  • Machine Learning, Deep Learning, and Generative AI
  • Data Engineering and Big Data Technologies
  • Data Intelligence, Natural Language Processing, and Predictive Analytics

Project-Based Learning

Hands-on learning is a core part of the MSADI experience. Students work on:

  • Collaborative projects with Silicon Valley companies.
  • Capstone experiences that integrate data science, AI and cloud computing.
  • Real-world case studies that prepare students for industry challenges.

Graduates are well-equipped to develop and implement analytics solutions tailored to industry needs. The program’s strong emphasis on problem-solving skills prepares students for technical roles.

Career Opportunities

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects data scientist roles to experience a 35% growth rate from 2022 to 2032, significantly outpacing the average growth of 5-8% for all other occupations (msol.ucla.edu). Graduates of this program attain professional roles such as:

  • AI Application Engineer
  • Business Intelligence Analyst
  • Data Analyst
  • Data Engineer
  • Data Scientist
  • Gen AI Engineer
  • Information Research Scientist
  • Machine Learning Engineer
  • Software Engineer

Our students and alumni have been employed by more than 200 Silicon Valley companies for internships and permanent positions, including companies like: 3M, Accenture, Adobe, Airbnb, Alphabet, AMD, Amazon, Applied Materials, Autodesk, BlackRock, Capital One, Cisco, Cognizant, Coupang, El Camino Health, Hewlett-Packard, Electric Power Research Institute, Equinix, Ernst & Young, Esri, Experian, Glassdoor, GM Financial, IBM, Informatica, Intel, Intuit, John Deere, Juniper Networks, Lam Research, Lucid, Mercedes Benz, Meta Platforms, Micron, Microsoft, NetApp, Nokia, Nvidia, Palo Alto Networks, Panasonic, PayPal, Rackspace Technology, Roche, Roku, Salesforce, SAS, Seagate, Teradata, Tesla, Teladoc Health, TikTok, Uber, Udemy, Visa, VMWare, Walmart, Warner Brothers Entertainment, Waymo, World Bank, etc.  

Program Features

STEM-Designated Degree

This program is classified as a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) degree program and meets course requirements for F-1 visa holders.

Expert Faculty and Industry Mentors

Learn from industry experts and academic faculty who bring cutting-edge insights into the classroom and skills, bringing a mix of academic excellence and practical expertise.