MS-DSPP Career Outcomes

The M.S. in Data Science for Public Policy (DSPP) prepares future leaders to use cutting-edge computational and statistical tools to improve domestic and international policy. With unparalleled access in Washington, DC, – a hub for policy and home to a thriving tech scene – we offer a close-knit community where you will develop policy and technical skills, as well as connections to current and future leaders in the field. Whether you envision yourself shaping legislation on the Hill, influencing discourse in think tanks, driving change in non-profits or navigating international policy, our program equips you for success.

$136,000Median advertised salary for data scientists in DC in 2024
21,619Unique job postings for policy analysts from January 2023 – July 2024

Source: US Census Bureau, Bureau of Economic Analysis and Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Alex Adams wearing a dark suit jacket and a white shirt with a pink tie

“The U.S. Digital Corps fellowship is allowing me to bring the computational, analytical and data governance skills I developed in the program to bear on some of the critical issues facing children and families across the country.”

Alex Adams (MS-DSPP’22)

McCourt’s New Home: Connecting You to Policymakers

McCourt’s Capitol Campus provides an environment focused on access to community and connection in downtown DC, the heart of world politics and policymaking. Our prime location, just blocks from Capitol Hill and major public transportation hubs, puts you in proximity to policymakers and practitioners. McCourt hosts a full schedule of events and esteemed guest speakers to connect you with these potential future employers. 

Students walking in front of the Capitol

From Classrooms to Careers

DSPP graduates go on to successful careers in a variety of industries.

Job Titles for 2023 Graduates

  • Data Scientist 
  • Policy Analyst 
  • Research Analyst 
  • Policy Fellow 
  • Public Policy Specialist

Where Our Graduates Work

  • Urban Institute
  • Congressional Budget Office
  • Booz Allen Hamilton
  • Environmental Policy Innovation Center
  • Spotify
  • U.S. Digital Corps
  • World Bank
  • Capital One

Put Your Knowledge into Practice through Internships

Internships are an opportunity to gain hands-on experience and professional connections critical for launching a successful career in any field. 

World Resources Institute Climate ProgramAndrea Quevedo (MS-DSPP ’20) was a data science intern supporting Power Explorer, a project seeking to provide open access to global data on power production and its impacts.
Data CoalitionDouglas Hummel-Price (MS-DSPP ’20) was a graduate policy research intern at this trade organization dedicated to enacting standardized, open, machine-readable data throughout the Federal Government.

Your On-Ramp to Success 

The DSPP program offers a career lab in which students and faculty discuss strategies for finding internships and jobs. In addition, the Data Science in Action speaker series and other activities are excellent networking opportunities.

The Office of Career Development and Alumni Engagement seeks to empower students to make effective career choices by understanding how to leverage public policy education, skills and experiences to succeed. Support provided includes:

  • Career Development Team 
  • Career Advising 
  • McCourt Connects 
  • Workshops 
  • Employer Events 
  • Hoya Gateway 
  • Internship Fund
three students walking down the steps of the Supreme Court