Master of Science in Data Science and Law

The Master of Science in Data Science and Law (minimum 32 units) is designed for individuals interested in the convergence of data science and law. The curriculum integrates courses from the Viterbi School of Engineering in data science and machine learning with those from the Gould School of Law in artificial intelligence, intellectual property law, information privacy and internet law.

The program is tailored for individuals with a robust academic background, high professional aspirations, strong personal commitment and effective communication skills that align with the demanding nature of this master’s degree program. Individuals who have already obtained a Juris Doctor (JD) or equivalent are encouraged to apply.

Prior to enrollment, admitted applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree from an institution within or outside the United States and must have taken at least two collegiate-level mathematics courses in the following areas: Calculus, Calculus-based Probability, Linear Algebra, Discrete Mathematics. Enrolled students without prior statistics background are required to take DSCI 564 Probability and Statistics for Data Science prior to taking DSCI 550 Data Science at Scale.

All information contained here is summarized from the USC Catalogue and is considered non-official. For all rules, regulations, procedures, and outlines, please see the current academic year USC Catalogue. The USC Catalogue supersedes all other publications.

Current students follow degree requirements in effect for the academic year they began their studies at USC.  If you are a current student, please refer to your STARS report or the appropriate USC Catalogue for your year.  Students seeking to advance their catalogue year to follow updated curricula may contact their department advisor.

Published on February 23rd, 2026Last updated on September 22nd, 2026