The MSc Data Science program in India is a 2-year postgraduate course designed to provide students with advanced knowledge in data analysis, machine learning, and statistical modelling. Ideal candidates hold a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, statistics, computer science, or engineering. The average annual fees range from INR 1 Lakh to 5 Lakh. Graduates can pursue careers as data scientists, data analysts, or business analysts, with average starting salaries ranging from INR 4 LPA to 12 LPA. When selecting a program, consider UGC/AICTE approval and NIRF rankings to ensure the institution meets required standards. The following table provides an overview of the key features of the MSc Data Science program in India.
Feature
Description
Duration
2 Years
Eligibility
Bachelor’s degree in Science/Engineering/Mathematics/Statistics with a minimum percentage
Average Fees
INR 1 Lakh to 5 Lakh per year
Career Paths
Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Business Analyst, Machine Learning Engineer
Key Skills
Statistical modelling, machine learning, data visualisation, programming skills in languages like Python, R
Top Colleges
IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, IIT Kanpur, University of Hyderabad, Christ University
Admission Criteria
Entrance exams like IIT JAM, university-specific exams, and merit-based selection
Specializations
Artificial Intelligence, Data Mining, Business Intelligence, Data Visualisation
Top Colleges in India Offering MSc Data Science Programs
The following table lists the top colleges in India offering MSc Data Science programs, including government and private institutions. These colleges are selected based on reputation, faculty expertise, and program quality. The table provides details about each college, including location, annual fees (INR), admission mode, available specialisations, and NIRF ranking (if available). This information is valuable for prospective students seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge in data science.
College Name
City
Annual Fees (INR)
Admission Mode
NIRF Ranking
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi
Delhi
2,20,000
Entrance Exam (IIT JAM)
2
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay
Mumbai
2,10,000
Entrance Exam (IIT JAM)
3
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur
Kanpur
2,00,000
Entrance Exam (IIT JAM)
4
University of Hyderabad
Hyderabad
50,000
Merit-based
15
Christ University
Bangalore
1,50,000
Entrance Exam (CUSAT)
20
Symbiosis Statistical Institute
Pune
1,80,000
Entrance Exam (SNAP)
–
International Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) Hyderabad
Hyderabad
2,80,000
Entrance Exam (IIITH PGEE)
10
National Institute of Technology (NIT) Tiruchirappalli
Tiruchirappalli
1,40,000
Entrance Exam (IIT JAM)
24
Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) Kolkata
Kolkata
30,000
Entrance Exam (ISI Admission Test)
25
MSc Data Science Eligibility Criteria and Admission Process in Indian Universities
To be eligible for MSc Data Science programs in India, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or Engineering from a recognized university. A minimum aggregate score of 50% to 60% is generally required. Admission can be through entrance exams or merit-based selection.
A bachelor’s degree in Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or Engineering with a minimum of 50% aggregate is required.
Entrance exams like IIT JAM, CAT, MAT, XAT, or university-specific exams may be required.
Many universities also offer merit-based admission based on bachelor’s degree marks.
An interview may be part of the selection process.
A strong background in mathematics and statistics is often preferred.
Some universities may require a certain level of programming skills, especially in languages like Python or R.
Work experience in a related field can be an advantage, but it’s not always mandatory.
The admission process for MSc Data Science programs in India involves submitting an application, followed by entrance exams or merit-based evaluation. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview or personal discussion. Final selection is usually based on a combination of academic performance, entrance exam scores, and interview performance. Program fees vary significantly, ranging from INR 50,000 to INR 2,00,000 per year in government colleges like the University of Hyderabad, and INR 3,00,000 or more in private colleges.
MSc Data Science Syllabus and Curriculum: A Detailed Breakdown
The MSc Data Science syllabus in India provides students with a comprehensive understanding of data science concepts, tools, and techniques. The curriculum is typically divided into four semesters, covering core subjects such as statistics, machine learning, and data mining, with electives like big data analytics and cloud computing. Lab sessions and projects are essential practical components.
The program aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge required for careers in data science, analytics, and related fields. The following table provides a detailed breakdown of the MSc Data Science syllabus and curriculum in India, highlighting core subjects, electives, and practical components for each semester.
Semester
Core Subjects
Electives
Practical Components
Semester 1
Probability and Statistics, Data Structures and Algorithms, Database Management Systems
Linear Algebra, Calculus
Data Analysis using Python, SQL Database Projects
Semester 2
Machine Learning, Statistical Inference, Data Visualization
Optimization Techniques, Time Series Analysis
Machine Learning Model Building, Data Visualization Projects
Semester 3
Big Data Analytics, Deep Learning, Cloud Computing
Natural Language Processing, Computer Vision
Big Data Processing using Spark, Deep Learning Model Development
Semester 4
Research Methodology, Project Work/Dissertation
Business Intelligence, Data Science for Social Good
Industry-based Project, Dissertation Writing
Semester 1 (Specialization)
Data Mining, Text Analytics
Recommendation Systems, Social Network Analysis
Text Mining Projects, Social Media Analytics
Semester 2 (Specialization)
Predictive Modeling, Data Warehousing
Geospatial Analysis, Human-Computer Interaction
Predictive Modeling Projects, Data Warehousing Lab
Semester 3 (Electives)
Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity
Data Science for Healthcare, Finance, or Marketing
AI and ML Projects, Cybersecurity Lab
Semester 4 (Project)
Dissertation/Project Work
Optional Electives (e.g., Entrepreneurship, Data Science Communication)
Industry-based Project, Dissertation Defense
MSc Data Science Syllabus PDF
Download the latest MSc Data Science Syllabus for your reference from below:
MSc Data Science Fee Structure: Government vs Private Colleges in India
The fee structure for MSc Data Science programs in India differs significantly between government and private colleges. Government colleges generally have lower annual fees, ranging from INR 20,000 to INR 1,00,000. Private colleges can charge from INR 1,00,000 to INR 3,00,000 or more per year. The specific fees depend on the college’s reputation, infrastructure, and faculty.
Factors influencing the fee structure include infrastructure costs, faculty salaries, and location. Colleges in urban areas like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore tend to have higher fees than those in smaller cities. Colleges with advanced infrastructure, such as state-of-the-art computer labs and libraries, may also charge more. For example, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi charges around INR 2,20,000 per year, while Christ University charges around INR 1,50,000 per year.
Scholarships and education loans are available to help students finance their MSc Data Science programs. Many government colleges offer scholarships to meritorious students, while private colleges may offer scholarships or waivers based on entrance exam scores. Education loans are also available from banks and financial institutions, with interest rates ranging from 8-12% per annum. Online master’s degree programs in data science are also available, offering flexibility and affordability, with fees ranging from INR 50,000 to INR 2,00,000 per year.
Online MSc Data Science and Data Analytics Masters Programs Online: Options for Working Professionals
Online MSc Data Science and Data Analytics master’s programs in India provide working professionals with a flexible way to upskill without interrupting their careers. These programs equip students with advanced knowledge in data science, machine learning, and analytics, making them highly sought after in the industry. The curriculum of online programs mirrors that of offline programs, focusing on practical applications and industry-relevant skills.
Accreditation from recognised bodies such as UGC, AICTE, and NAAC ensures programs meet required standards. Program fees range from INR 1,00,000 to INR 5,00,000 or more per year, depending on the institution and delivery mode. Programs typically last 2 years, with some institutions offering part-time or executive options for working professionals.
University/Platform
Program Name
Mode of Delivery
Approximate Total Fees (INR)
Duration
Key Notes / Suitability for Working Professionals
BITS Pilani Digital
M.Sc. in Data Science & Artificial Intelligence
Fully Online (Live + Self-paced)
~2.5–3 lakhs (trimester-based ~35k)
2 years
Flexible weekends; ideal for professionals; UGC-approved.
IIIT Hyderabad (DFL)
Master of Science in Data Science
Fully Online
Starts at ~4 lakhs + GST
2–4 years (flexible)
UGC-entitled; self-paced options; designed explicitly for working pros.
Symbiosis School for Online/Distance Learning (SSODL)
Master of Science (Data Science)
100% Online
~1.4 lakhs
2 years (24 months)
Affordable; no campus visits; UGC guidelines.
SASTRA University Online
Online M.Sc. in Data Science
Fully Online
~1.4–2 lakhs (discounted options)
2 years (4 semesters)
One of the more affordable; comprehensive curriculum.
Manipal Academy of Higher Education (Online Manipal)
Online M.Sc. in Data Science
Fully Online
~2.8 lakhs
2 years (4 semesters)
EMI options; scholarship available; strong for analytics focus.
Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) Online
Master of Science in Data Science
Mixed (Recorded + Live)
~1.7 lakhs
2 years
UGC-entitled; diverse electives like Big Data/ML.
Chandigarh University Online
Online M.Sc. in Data Science
Fully Online
~1.1–1.5 lakhs (with scholarships)
2 years
Budget-friendly with early bird discounts.
UpGrad (collaborations, e.g., with universities)
Master’s in Data Science / Related Programs
Fully Online
~2.5–3 lakhs
1–2 years
Industry-focused; often with placements support.
Great Learning (e.g., with Northwestern or Indian partners)
MS in Data Science / PG Programs
Live Online
~2–4.5 lakhs
18–24 months
Prestigious partnerships; live classes for interaction.
Coursera/edX (with university partners)
MSc in Data Science / Master’s in Data Science
Fully Online
~1.5–2.5 lakhs
1–2 years
Flexible, global partners; good for foundational to advanced skills.
MSc Data Science Career and Salary
MSc Data Science graduates in India enjoy strong career prospects in a booming field driven by big data, AI, and analytics across industries. Freshers typically start with salaries of INR 5-12 LPA, influenced by location (higher in metros like Bangalore), company type, and skills in ML/deep learning. Salaries grow rapidly with experience, often outpacing related roles like software engineering or business analytics, with top recruiters including TCS, Infosys, Wipro, IBM, Accenture, and startups. Institutions like Christ University, Stella Maris, and Symbiosis, along with online platforms (Coursera, edX, UpGrad), equip graduates for success.
Experience Level
Role Examples
Salary Range (INR LPA)
Notes / Comparison
Entry-level / Fresher (0-2 years)
Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Business Analyst
5 – 12 (avg. 6-10)
Higher in top IT firms/Bangalore; MSc boosts starting pay
Mid-level (2-5/6 years)
Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Data Architect
10 – 20 (ML Eng: 12-25)
Significant growth; often exceeds software engineers (6-15 LPA)
Senior-level (5-10+ years)
Senior Data Scientist, Lead ML Engineer
20 – 40+ (up to 50+ in top roles)
Expertise/company-dependent; high potential in AI/big data sectors
Related Fields Comparison
Software Engineer (similar exp.)
6 – 15
Data science generally higher
Related Fields Comparison
Business Analyst (similar exp.)
5 – 12
Data science offers better long-term growth
Top recruiters: TCS, Infosys, Wipro, IBM, Accenture, along with consulting firms and startups. Prospects remain promising due to the rising demand for analytics across sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the duration of the MSc Data Science program in India?
The MSc Data Science program in India is a 2-year postgraduate course divided into four semesters. The curriculum covers key subjects like Statistics, Machine Learning, and Data Mining. This duration is standard across most universities.
Q2. What are the eligibility criteria for admission to MSc Data Science programs in Indian universities?
To be eligible for MSc Data Science programs in Indian universities, you must have a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or Engineering, from a recognized university. A minimum aggregate score of 50% – 60% is also required. Some universities may also conduct entrance exams or consider merit-based admission.
Q3. What is the fee structure for MSc Data Science programs in government and private colleges in India?
The fee structure for MSc Data Science programs in India varies. Government colleges typically charge lower fees, ranging from INR 20,000 to INR 1,00,000 per year. Private colleges can charge anywhere from INR 1,00,000 to INR 3,00,000 or more per year, depending on the college’s reputation and infrastructure.
Q4. What are the career opportunities and average starting salaries for MSc Data Science graduates in India?
MSc Data Science graduates in India have excellent career prospects as Data Scientists, Data Analysts, Machine Learning Engineers, and Business Intelligence Analysts. Average starting salaries range from INR 4 LPA to INR 12 LPA, depending on skills, experience, and the employer. With experience, data scientists can earn significantly higher salaries, often exceeding INR 20 LPA.
Amay Mathur is an EdTech content and SEO professional with over 4 years of experience in building scalable education content systems. He played a key role in developing the content framework at Chegg, focusing on structure, discoverability, and student intent. Amay actively contributes to editorial education content, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and search-aligned storytelling that helps learners make informed academic decisions.
