The Orientation Guide will be sent to incoming students prior to matriculation. Attendance is required for all programs, and international students are also required to attend an orientation session hosted by the International Students Office. By attending Orientation, students will: 

  • Feel aided in making the transition from their previous environments to UVA and the School of Data Science. 
  • Be informed of campus services and resources that will enhance their academic success and overall college experiences. 
  • Better understand strategies for success and begin to understand their own potential and challenges. 
  • Begin to feel connected to the UVA and the School of Data Science community and feel confident and excited about their educational choice.

The School of Data Science requires all students across programs to attend Orientation, which typically occurs the week prior to a program's first day of class.

B.S. in Data Science Orientation

We are excited to welcome our first cohort of data science bachelor's students in the fall of 2024. We are working to develop opportunities for first-year students during their UVA Orientation, workshops once B.S. in data science students begin their major courses, and more. 

Online M.S. in Data Science Orientation

Online MSDS virtual orientation sessions are live and typically occur Tuesday and Wednesday evenings the week prior to the start of classes from 7-9 p.m. ET. Exact dates will be communicated to personal and UVA email addresses before the start of term.

Residential M.S. in Data Science Orientation

Orientation for the MSDS residential program occurs in person over several days the week before summer classes begin. Topics covered will include program information, academic resources, faculty and staff introductions, cohort bonding, and technology orientation. Exact dates will be communicated to personal and UVA email addresses before the start of term.

Ph.D. in Data Science Orientation

Orientation for the Ph.D. in data science occurs in person the week prior to the start of the fall semester. Exact dates will be communicated to personal and UVA email addresses before the start of term.