Master’s
Master of Science in Public Policy Data Science (MPPDS)
Important Dates:
Fall 2025
- International Deadline: May 1, 2025
- Domestic Deadline: July 1, 2025


Important Dates:
Fall 2025
- International Deadline: May 1, 2025
- Domestic Deadline: July 1, 2025
The Master of Science in Public Policy Data Science (MPPDS) program trains students to apply data science to solve complex public policy challenges.
Harness big data for social good.
The effective use of data science in public policy has the potential to revolutionize how organizations work and how public policy is created. The Master of Science in Public Policy Data Science (MPPDS), a joint program between the USC Price School of Public Policy and the USC Viterbi School of Engineering, will hone your ability to make data-driven decisions that can positively inform policy. With this skillset, you can help organizations from every sector, including nonprofits and private companies in addition to public agencies, become more transparent, accountable, and swift in their decision-making.
Real World Skillsets
- Address the challenges associated with collecting, combining, and analyzing big data from disparate sources to inform and guide policymaking;
- Combine data science tools with public policy and project evaluation methods including statistics and econometrics;
- Apply data science principles—including machine learning, data mining, and visualization of large datasets—to help craft better public policies;
- Persuade decision-makers by knowing how to make and effectively communicate evidence-based recommendations

Community Impact Scholarship
Apply by 3/16
USC Price is pleased to announce the Price Community Impact Scholarships for incoming master’s students who plan to enroll in one of the following on-campus programs: MHA, MIPM, MNLM, MPA, MPP, MPPDS, MRED, and MUP.
Learn MoreAttend an Info Session
Join faculty, students, and alumni for live information sessions to learn more about the application process, financial services, and program curriculum.
Upcoming Sessions
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Financial Aid
Numerous financial aid opportunities are available for grad students, including the new James Irvine California Scholarship, which guarantees scholarships to California residents.
Build Joint Expertise in Data Science and Policy
The Master of Science in Public Policy Data Science builds unique proficiencies with an emphasis on public policy, and teaches you to leverage data science to:
- Increase transparency and accountability
- Improve the efficiency and quality of services
- Enhance security and address matters of defense and intelligence
- Oversee emergency management
- Influence policy and the policy-making process broadly
With a vast range of applications – including crime pattern identification, traffic light synchronization, fair housing practices, health care access, transit usage, education financing and more – there will be no shortage of fields for you to apply your newly-gained expertise.
Contact Us

Program Director, Mark Phillips
Associate Professor (Teaching)
Department of Public Policy and Management
(213) 740-0210
[email protected]

Sierra Wilkie,
Admissions Counselor
(213) 740-0399
[email protected]