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 careers and home to a thriving tech, data and AI 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.
McCourt’s downtown home: connecting you to policymakers
McCourt’s world-class 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.
From classrooms to careers
Our DSPP graduates go on to successful careers in a variety of industries.
Top job titles
- Data Scientists
- Data Analysts
- Data Engineers
- Product Managers
- Consultants
Top occupations
- Data Scientists
- Social Science Research Assistants
- Management Analysts
- Database Administrators
- General and Operations Managers
Sample employers
- International Monetary Fund
- The World Bank
- U.S. Digital Corps
- United States Congress
*This data is from 56 alumni and Lightcast data
Median advertised salary for data scientists in DC in 2024
US Census Bureau, Bureau of Economic Analysis and Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Unique job postings for policy analysts from January 2023 – July 2024
US Census Bureau, Bureau of Economic Analysis and Bureau of Labor Statistics.
“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 (DSPP’22)
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
- Career Development Team
- Career Advising
- McCourt Connects
- Workshops
- Employer Events
- Hoya Gateway
- Internship Fund
Request More Information
The need for policy makers who can use data to drive change is ever growing. Join us in the Master of Science in Data Science for Public Policy and hone your skills to expertly apply data science to policy making.
Thank you for your interest in our program. Please complete this form and we‘ll contact you with more information.