Data Science

Data Science is the science of extracting knowledge or insight from various types of data. The study of Data Science combines mathematics, statistics and informatics making you ready for meeting the data revolution. A brief description of the programme With a Master of Science in Data Science, you will be well prepared to face a major challenge in today's society: how to utilize the information contained in the vast amounts of data that are being collected in various areas such as medicine, finance, environment, and social media. The master's programme in Data Science is based on an interdisciplinary background in statistics (probability theory, inference, machine learning) and computer science (algorithms, visualization, database) in addition to a solid foundation in general mathematics. Modern data collection is characterised by volume (the amount of data), variety (the many different types of data including numbers, text and videos) and velocity (the dynamic collection and need for processing data). Extracting knowledge and insight from such data requires several different skills. Many tools are available, but the need for an understanding on what these tools do and how they can be applied or modified to a specific problem requires deep methodological understanding of all the topics within the Data Science production chain. This programme will give you a combination of theoretical basis and practical experience, from problem definition to data extraction and preprocessing to analysis and in the end presentation of the results. The program will focus on both the breadth and specialization in various subjects. The master's programme has the following specializations: Statistics and Machine Learning Database Integration and Semantic Web Data Science and Life Science Language Technology Digital Image Processing The programme will be based on projects in the master's thesis which are related to real problem in industry, public sector as well as from other scientific disciplines. Such projects will be fostered through the two Centre for Research-based Innovation BigInsight and Sirius as well as through our professional contacts with other communities both at the University and outside. Study environment We know that students who thrive are students who are more successful in the academic profession. That's why we want you to be a student with us! We start the semester with a joint meeting for all new students where you will get practical information about the studies and you will be greeted by those responsible for the programme. It is mandatory to meet at the welcome meeting. At the start of the study you will get the opportunity to get acquainted with old and new students and employees, both professionally and socially. If you are looking for something practical about your study, or need guidance, please contact us. The University of Oslo has a rich student life with over 200 student associations. We encourage all our students to engage in socially. As a student, you have access to pleasant student areas, both for study and social activities, in close association with the research communities. Read more about Student Life. Studies abroad You can travel on exchange through the key agreements the University of Oslo offers. We recommend that you travel preferably in the second, possibly in the third semester. Another possibility is staying abroad in connection with the work with the master's thesis. Career prospects After studying, you will have a good foundation for working in a number of areas both in private and public sector. Many of our master's theses are directly linked to the issues and activities of technology companies and institutions in Norway. Some of the master's degree students who achieve very good academic results continue to pursue a research career by taking a doctorate (Ph.D.) at the University of Oslo or a university abroad. Honours certificate Are you academically ambitious? It is possible to supplement your master's degree with an honours certificate worth 20 credits. You take the certificate concurrently with the master's programme.

Living costsNOK 20,200 a month in Oslo, rent included

kr 242,400

Living costs from SiT estimate from livingcost.org city data (Nov 2026), converted from USD at the ECB reference rate of 30 Oct 2026 (1 EUR = 10.312 NOK, 1.1172 USD)

Typical requirements in Norway for this degree level. Your advisor gives you the final list.

• A completed qualification that gives access to Master's Degree study.
• Academic transcripts and any programme-specific assessment the institution asks for.
• Your advisor checks the final requirements for your education system and intake.

Taught in English.

Prepare for and book LanguageCert Academic with SIT Connect

A typical checklist for this degree level. Your advisor gives you the final list.

The central catalogue records this programme as accredited.