Cornell University

How this program compares

At an estimated $58.2K in total tuition, the MEng in Computer Science, Applied Data Science sits about 36% above the $42.9K average for AI master's programs in our database — placing it in the 75th percentile on cost among the 394 we track at this level. It runs on a full-time schedule (on-campus).

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: A bachelor's degree in computer science or related field with strong performance in undergraduate coursework, including programming, algorithms, and mathematics, is required. Relevant experience such as research, TA roles, or projects in computer science is highly recommended.

About This Program

Cornell's MEng in Computer Science with an Applied Data Science focus brings an Ivy League CS department together with Cornell Tech's New York City campus and its industry-facing, product-oriented culture. The MEng is a professional master's aimed at students who want to build and ship data-driven systems rather than pursue a research track.

Cornell's dual presence in Ithaca and NYC gives students access to both deep academic foundations and the city's finance, media, and tech employers. The program suits engineers targeting applied ML and data science roles at scale.

Career Outcomes

The MEng in Computer Science, Applied Data Science at Cornell University (New York, New York) is oriented toward Data Scientist hiring, with alumni reporting pay near $120,000. Its focus on Machine Learning and MLOps/AI Engineering maps directly to how employers screen for specialized skills rather than generic degrees. Federal projections for this occupational area point to roughly 36% growth this decade — verify the current figure on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook before you rely on it.

• 1. Data Scientist
• 2. Machine Learning Engineer
• 3. Applied Data Analyst
• 4. Software Engineer (Data Focus)

What You'll Learn

• Design and implement scalable data processing pipelines for large datasets.
• Apply machine learning algorithms to solve applied data science problems.
• Analyze complex data using statistical models and visualization techniques.
• Develop software systems integrating computer science and data science principles.

Curriculum Highlights

The program includes 18 technical credits in areas like applied machine learning and optimization, alongside 8 credits of immersive studio courses and startup modules.

Top Employers

Top employers include tech giants like Google, Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta, as well as data-driven firms in finance, healthcare, and consulting.

Admissions

Admission to Cornell University's MEng in Computer Science, Applied Data Science generally expects a bachelor's degree. The GRE is optional here — a growing norm among AI programs — so applicants can often lead with coursework, projects and recommendations instead. Deadlines, testing policies and funding change year to year, so confirm the current requirements on the official program page before applying.

Application Materials

• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Letters of Recommendation: 3
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Frequently Asked Questions