Study
28.01.2022

The MDS quantitative requirement explained

Supercomputer with open hardware and monitor displaying code.

What prior quantitative or technical training qualifies for admission to the MDS? Here’s a breakdown.

For the Master of Data Science for Public Policy (MDS), we require our students to enter the programme with some prior quantitative or technical training in order to ensure a productive learning environment. Of course, no one student will have the same skillset, but the understanding of the mathematics behind data science is what we look for in strong MDS applicants.
 

So what counts as prior quantitative training?

Did you study mathematics or statistics during your undergraduate degree? A combination of all topics related to these two subject areas will give you the right foundation needed to gain admission to the MDS. If you took courses such as linear algebra, calculus, probability, statistics and econometrics at the bachelor’s level or above, and you have a good understanding of these topics, you’re more than ready to apply. While you don’t need to have taken all of these subjects to qualify for admission to the MDS, your knowledge of these topics will be a critical foundation for the programme.
 

What counts as prior technical training?

When it comes to technical training, we’re talking about experience in coding and computer science. This may lie outside of traditional academic frameworks: A degree in computer science, engineering or natural sciences is not required, and you can simply demonstrate your passion for programming through your work, extracurricular activities, courses or self-learning of coding. While we don’t require previous expertise in a particular language, proficiency in Python, R and SQL will give you a leg up.
 

What if I don’t have all of these quantitative/technical skills right now? 

Say you only have quantitative but not technical training or vice versa, but you are highly motivated to catch up and learn. If you can imagine yourself investing the time and effort to untangle complex technical data problems during the programme and in your career – whether in government, industry or research work – then this might be a great programme for you! Submit an application via our online application portal and tell us how you plan to get up to speed on the skills you’re missing by the time you start your studies.

If you enjoy problem-solving but don’t have any experience with coding, try taking a free course online to see if you like it. You can also attend the Hertie School Data Science Lab’s free online summer school to get an introduction to R and Python. All incoming MDS students are expected to attend the summer school, so it’s a good indicator of what to expect in the programme.
 

More questions?

Know that we evaluate applicants on a case-by-case basis, and we look for potential, overall fit and the willingness to learn in our future candidates. In case you are still unsure about your qualifications, please feel free to schedule a one-on-one call with Torrencia Cardinal from the Admissions team or reach out via e-mail at cardinal[at]hertie-school[dot]org.

Get to know more