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Financial Aid Overview for Master’s in Data Science Students

Compare one and two year timelines, explore financial support, and build a budget for tuition and other expenses.

What Does the MS in Data Science Program Cost?

For students starting in the fall of 2027, the total tuition and fees for the MS in Data Science program at Willamette University is $47,500. Total tuition and fees remain the same whether you choose to complete the program in one or two years.

What Could Your Total Budget Look Like?

This example includes tuition and fees. Both scenarios use a hypothetical $1,800 scholarship. Your actual expenses and scholarship awards may vary. 

The one year example covers three semesters. The two year example covers six semesters. Both include summer enrollment. Health insurance and living expense estimates are not included below.

Tuition is billed per credit, so your bill will depend on your course load each semester. For example, you’ll pay more in a semester with two classes (8 credits) than in one with a single class (4 credits).

Estimate Expense

One Year Program

Two Year Program

Total Tuition and Fees Year 1 $47,500 $23,750
Total Tuition and Fees Year 2 N/A $23,750*
Hypothetical Merit Scholarship Year 1 -$1,800 -$900
Hypothetical Merit Scholarship Year 2 N/A -$900
Tuition and Fees After Scholarship $45,700 $45,700
Hypothetical Employer Support Year 1 -$5,250 -$2,625
Hypothetical Employer Support Year 2 N/A -$2,625
Hypothetical Federal Loan Principal (before loan fees) Year 1 -$20,500 -$10,250
Hypothetical Federal Loan Principal (before loan fees) Year 2 N/A -$10,250
Remaining Funding Needed Year 1 $19,950 $9,975
Remaining Funding Needed Year 2 N/A $9,975*
How Often Will I Be Billed? 3 times, once for each semester over one year 6 times, once for each semester over two years

*This illustration assumes the same tuition for both years. Please note that tuition is expected to increase slightly in the second year of the program.

Willamette Merit Scholarships

Students admitted to the MSDS program are automatically considered for merit scholarships. No separate scholarship application is required. Award amounts vary, and consideration does not guarantee an award. 

Scholarships awarded by Willamette directly reduce the tuition students are responsible for paying

Scholarship dollars are applied evenly across the nine courses. For example, an $1,800 scholarship award would provide $200 per 4-credit class.

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Employer Education Benefits

Your employer may offer tuition assistance or reimbursement. Ask HR or your benefits manager whether the MSDS qualifies, how much support is available, whether you need approval before enrolling, and when your employer pays.

You may have a balance due before you receive your employer reimbursement. Ask Student Accounts how any approved direct employer payment will be handled. 

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Billing and Payment Options

Tuition is billed by credit each semester. Full-time students typically enroll in three classes (12 credits) per semester. Part-time students typically enroll in one or two classes per semester. 

The 12-month, full-time program consists of three semesters: Fall, Spring, and Summer. Students who complete the program on this schedule pay tuition across three semesters, with billing occurring each semester rather than as one upfront program payment.

Monthly Payment Plans are available. More details are available on the Student Accounts web page or by contacting the Student Accounts Office directly. Willamette Student Accounts can work directly with you and your employer to set up a payment plan.

Note that a smaller course load can change federal loan eligibility, so ask Financial Aid to review every term of your plan. 

Willamette Offers Payment Plan Options for Students

Timeline and Next Steps

  • While applying: request a cost estimate from a Willamette admissions counselor. Ask your HR about employer benefits. 
  • When the FAFSA is available: submit the FAFSA if you plan on seeking federal financial aid.
  • After admission: review your scholarship and financial aid offers.
  • Before the first loan disbursement: accept your loan, complete required documents, and confirm your enrollment at Willamette.
  • Mid-July: review your bill and enroll in a payment plan. 
  • August: review your health insurance eligibility and submit a waiver if you have comparable insurance. 
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Let's Connect

Do you have questions about the Master's in Data Science program? Complete this form and we’ll get in touch!

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Willamette University

Office of Financial Aid