Willamette University School of Computing and Information Sciences

09/02/2026

Every organization has data. The challenge is knowing what to do with it. 💻📊

Which numbers matter? What patterns are real? What might the data miss? And how do you turn an analysis into a decision someone can actually use?

Willamette’s MS in Data Science is built around those questions.

You’ll develop practical skills in programming, statistics, machine learning, data engineering, and visualization while also learning to think carefully about where data comes from, what it represents, and how it should be used.

The 36-credit, in-person program includes opportunities to work with real data and complete a capstone project that demonstrates how you solve problems and implement solutions.

Build data skills. Learn what to do with them.

Gain some of today’s most in-demand skills and elevate your career. Find out how Willamette’s MS in Data Science can help you achieve your goals: https://willamette.edu/academics/computing/data-science/

08/27/2026

We are excited to introduce our 2026 Commencement Speaker for the School of Computing & Information Sciences.

View important details about the 2026 School of Computing and Information Sciences Commencement Speaker at Willamette University's Commencement in Salem Oregon.

08/26/2026

This Saturday, we’re excited to recognize the hard work, innovation, and accomplishments of our graduating Master’s in Data Science Class of 2026 at the School of Computing & Information Sciences Graduate Studies Commencement!

From tackling complex datasets and building innovative solutions to completing internships, research, and capstone projects with real-world impact, our graduates have spent their time at Willamette developing the skills to turn data into meaningful action.

MSDS Commencement
Saturday, August 29, 2026
11:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m.
Hudson Hall, Mary Stuart Rogers Music Center

https://willamette.edu/life-on-campus/commencement/scis/

08/24/2026

Happy first day of the semester, MSDS students!

Yesterday, we had the pleasure of welcoming our newest Master’s in Data Science students to Willamette for New Student Orientation!

From getting to know their classmates and connecting with faculty and staff to learning about the resources that will support them throughout their graduate experience, it was a great way to kick off their Willamette journey.

And today, the real adventure begins. 📊

We’re so excited to have our newest MSDS students here and can’t wait to see what they learn, build, and accomplish in the year ahead.

Welcome to the School of Computing & Information Sciences, and happy first day of classes!

08/19/2026

Congratulations to our graduating Master’s in Data Science students!

Students from the Willamette University School of Computing & Information Sciences recently presented their capstone projects, marking the culmination of their graduate studies and an opportunity to showcase how they’re turning data into meaningful, real-world insights.

Something especially exciting stood out in this year’s projects: students found ways to connect data science with the things that matter to them.

Many built their capstones around personal hobbies and interests or applied data from their current internships and jobs to solve real challenges. Others partnered directly with nonprofit organizations that may not have the resources to tackle large-scale data projects on their own, providing them with valuable analysis and actionable insights they can put to use.

From identifying a question to working with complex datasets and communicating their findings, these capstones represent so much of what our students have learned, and the many ways data science can make an impact across industries, organizations, and communities.

Congratulations to all of our graduating MSDS students on reaching this milestone! We’re incredibly proud of your work and can’t wait to celebrate you at Commencement. 🎉

08/04/2026

New Engineering AI and Understanding AI minors enable students to study AI through technical and non-technical approaches.

07/30/2026

We're less than one month away from celebrating the outstanding achievements of our Master of Science in Data Science Class of 2026! 🎉

Join us as we recognize the dedication, innovation, and hard work of our graduates as they prepare to take the next step in their careers as data professionals.

Saturday, August 29, 2026
11:30 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.
Hudson Hall, Mary Stuart Rogers Music Center

Over the past year, our graduates have strengthened their technical expertise, tackled complex real-world challenges, and developed the analytical skills needed to make an impact across industries.

Now it's time to celebrate this incredible milestone alongside family, friends, faculty, and the entire Willamette community.

https://willamette.edu/life-on-campus/commencement/scis/

07/22/2026

Preparing tomorrow's data leaders, one interview at a time.

Earlier this week, our graduating Master of Science in Data Science students put their interview skills to the test during SCIS Mock Interview Night at Ecotrust.

With nearly 50 graduating students and more than 30 professionals from leading companies, startups, government agencies, and the tech recruiting industry volunteering their time, the evening was filled with meaningful conversations, valuable feedback, and new professional connections.

Technical interviews can be one of the most challenging parts of the job search. Events like this give students the opportunity to practice in a supportive environment, build confidence, and receive real-world insights from experienced professionals before stepping into the workforce.

A heartfelt thank you to every industry professional who generously shared their expertise and helped prepare our students for the next step in their careers. We also want to recognize our dedicated Willamette faculty and staff whose collaboration made the evening possible.

At the School of Computing & Information Sciences, experiential learning extends beyond the classroom. Opportunities like Mock Interview Night ensure our students graduate not only with technical expertise, but with the confidence and professional skills to thrive in today's competitive job market.

07/20/2026

Incoming MSDS students, mark your calendars! Your graduate journey at Willamette begins with SCIS Graduate Student Orientation! 💼

Sunday, August 23, 2026
11:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Willamette University Portland Campus

Orientation is required for all new Master's in Data Science students and is designed to help you start the semester with confidence.

During the program, you'll: Meet your fellow MSDS classmates, learn strategies for managing a graduate-level course load, discover student support resources available to you, and get introduced to Willamette's Career Development team and the tools they'll provide throughout your program.

Whether you're launching a new career in tech or building on your existing experience, we're excited to welcome you to the School of Computing & Information Sciences.

We can't wait to meet the newest members of our MSDS community. See you on August 23! 👋

https://willamette.edu/admissions/orientation/scis

07/15/2026

Jameson Watts, dean of the School of Computing and Information Sciences at Willamette University was recently quoted in an article on student AI readiness. Check it out here!

The tight entry-level job market stems from the traditional business cycle. Students need training now to prepare for greater disruption.