The M.Sc (Data Science) is a 2-year full-time postgraduate programme offered by the University of Kerala at its Kariavattom Campus, Thiruvananthapuram. The programme covers advanced data analysis, machine learning, statistical computing, data visualization, and big data technologies, equipping students with the skills to extract actionable insights from large and complex datasets. With a seat intake of 18 students, the total fees for the programme are Rs. 12,420 for the complete 2-year duration, making it one of the most affordable M.Sc Data Science programmes in the country. The programme is offered through the Department of Computer Science (Applied Sciences and Technology) and is highly sought after given the growing demand for data science professionals across industries.
Admissions for the 2026-27 batch are currently ongoing. The online application window is open from March 16, 2026 to April 30, 2026. The Kerala University PG CSS Entrance Examination is scheduled from May 18 to May 24, 2026. The rank list will be published on June 17, 2026, with admissions commencing from June 29, 2026 and classes beginning from July 16, 2026.
Key Points
| Fee Component | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees - Semester 1 | Rs. 3,690 |
| Tuition Fees - Semester 2 | Rs. 840 |
| Tuition Fees - Semester 3 | Rs. 840 |
| Tuition Fees - Semester 4 | Rs. 840 |
| Total Tuition Fees (Year 1) | Rs. 4,530 |
| Total Tuition Fees (Year 2) | Rs. 1,680 |
| Total Academic Fees (2 years) | Rs. 12,420 |
| Hostel Fees (if availed) | Rs. 12,230 (for full course, optional) |
| Total Fees (without hostel) | Rs. 12,420 |
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Application Opens | March 16, 2026 |
| Last Date for Online Application | April 30, 2026 |
| PG CSS Entrance Examination | May 18, 2026 - May 24, 2026 |
| Publication of Rank List | June 17, 2026 |
| Commencement of Admissions | June 29, 2026 |
| Last Date for Admission | August 31, 2026 |
| Commencement of Classes | July 16, 2026 |
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Kerala University PG CSS Entrance Examination |
| Conducting Body | University of Kerala |
| Mode | Offline |
| Application Portal | admissions.keralauniversity.ac.in/css2026 |
| Application Fee (General/SEBC) | Rs. 750 |
| Application Fee (SC/ST) | Rs. 500 |
| Basis of Selection | Performance in PG CSS Entrance Exam |
| Exemption | SC/ST candidates admitted to vacant seats, foreign candidates, and sponsored candidates are exempted from the entrance exam |
The dates mentioned above are tentative and subject to change.
| Scholarship | Eligibility | Amount | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kerala Government e-Grantz (SC/ST Post-Matric Scholarship) | SC/ST students enrolled in recognised colleges | Full tuition fee reimbursement + maintenance allowance | Apply through egrantz.kerala.gov.in |
| Kerala Government e-Grantz (OBC/OEC Post-Matric Scholarship) | OBC/OEC students with family income below Rs. 1 lakh/year | Partial fee reimbursement + maintenance allowance | Apply through egrantz.kerala.gov.in |
| Kerala University Merit Scholarship (PG) | Students with First Class Bachelor's degree from Kerala University | Rs. 3,000 per annum for 2 years | 2 scholarships available for Computer Science/related subjects; apply through the university |
| Students' Aid Fund Scholarship (Kerala University) | Students with annual family income below Rs. 25,000 | Rs. 1,500 per annum (day scholars); Rs. 3,000 per annum (hostellers) | Income certificate from Village Officer required |
| DST-INSPIRE Scholarship | Students with exceptional academic record (top 1% in Plus Two or top rank in graduation) | Rs. 80,000 per annum | Apply through DST INSPIRE portal; for students pursuing science at PG level |
| National Scholarship Portal (NSP) Scholarships | SC/ST/OBC/Minority students meeting income criteria | Varies by scheme | Apply at scholarships.gov.in |
23 Mar, 2026 Kerala University has released M.Sc Data Science Fee Structure 2026. The total academic fee is ₹ 12,420 .
21 Mar, 2026 Kerala University M.Sc Data Science Admission 2026 is ongoing till Apr 30, 2026. The entrance examination is scheduled from May 18 to 24, 2026. Check details.
Ques. What is the exact eligibility for M.Sc Data Science at Kerala University, and can B.Com or BA students apply?
Ans. The M.Sc Data Science programme at Kerala University requires a Bachelor's degree specifically in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, B.Tech (CS/IT), B.Sc (Artificial Intelligence), B.Sc (Data Science), or B.Sc (Machine Learning). B.Com or BA students are generally not eligible unless their degree included Mathematics or Statistics as a major subject. The programme is designed for students with a quantitative and computational background. Candidates must have a minimum of 50% marks in their qualifying degree (45% for SC/ST). Students who have appeared in their final semester examination and are awaiting results can also apply provisionally.
Ques. How competitive is the M.Sc Data Science admission at Kerala University given only 18 seats are available?
Ans. With only 18 seats available, the M.Sc Data Science programme at Kerala University is highly competitive. The selection is based entirely on the performance in the Kerala University PG CSS Entrance Examination. Given the growing popularity of data science as a career, the number of applicants significantly exceeds the available seats. Students with a strong background in Mathematics, Statistics, and Computer Science, along with good programming skills in Python or R, tend to perform better in the entrance examination. The entrance exam typically covers topics from the qualifying degree subjects, so thorough preparation in core areas of Computer Science, Mathematics, and Statistics is essential.
Ques. What topics are covered in the M.Sc Data Science curriculum at Kerala University?
Ans. The M.Sc Data Science curriculum at Kerala University covers a comprehensive range of topics across 4 semesters. Core areas include statistical methods and probability theory, machine learning algorithms, deep learning and neural networks, data mining and knowledge discovery, big data technologies (Hadoop, Spark), database management systems, data visualization tools, Python and R programming for data analysis, natural language processing, and research methodology. The programme also includes project work and a dissertation in the final semester, where students work on real-world data science problems. The curriculum is designed to balance theoretical foundations with practical, industry-relevant skills.
Ques. Is there any placement support for M.Sc Data Science graduates from Kerala University?
Ans. The University of Kerala does not have a dedicated campus placement cell for M.Sc Data Science students comparable to engineering colleges. However, the Department of Computer Science (Applied Sciences and Technology) facilitates industry interactions, guest lectures, and project collaborations with IT companies. Graduates of M.Sc Data Science from Kerala University can leverage the university's alumni network and the growing IT ecosystem in Thiruvananthapuram (Technopark) for job opportunities. Many graduates pursue careers in data analytics, machine learning engineering, business intelligence, and research. Some also opt for higher studies such as Ph.D. or international postgraduate programmes.
Ques. Can I pursue M.Sc Data Science at Kerala University after completing B.Tech in a non-CS branch like Mechanical or Civil Engineering?
Ans. The eligibility for M.Sc Data Science at Kerala University specifically requires a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, or B.Tech in Computer Science/Information Technology. B.Tech graduates from non-CS branches such as Mechanical, Civil, or Electrical Engineering are generally not eligible unless their programme included significant coursework in Computer Science or Mathematics. Candidates from such backgrounds are advised to check the official prospectus for the specific academic year, as the university may update eligibility criteria. Alternatively, such candidates may consider pursuing a PG Diploma in Data Science or a related certification before applying for the M.Sc programme.
Ques. What is the difference between M.Sc Data Science at Kerala University and similar programmes at Digital University Kerala (DUK)?
Ans. Both Kerala University and Digital University Kerala (DUK) offer M.Sc programmes in Data Science, but they differ significantly in focus and fee structure. Kerala University's M.Sc Data Science is a traditional university programme with very low fees (Rs. 12,420 total), offered at the Kariavattom Campus with 18 seats, and admission is through the university's own PG CSS entrance exam. DUK's M.Sc Data Science and Computational Modelling is a more technology-focused programme with higher fees, admission through CUET-PG or GATE scores, and a stronger emphasis on industry collaboration and cutting-edge research. DUK is a newer institution with a specific focus on digital technologies, while Kerala University offers a broader academic environment with established research infrastructure.
Search from 20K+ Courses and 35+ Streams

Do you think the data is wrong ? Report Here

.png?h=78&w=78&mode=stretch)

.png?h=78&w=78&mode=stretch)

.png?h=78&w=78&mode=stretch)












Comments