The 6+12 month study model offers a structured pathway to a master’s in the USA, combining six months of foundational Data Science study at Mahindra University with 12 months of advanced learning at Illinois Tech, Chicago. Explore the curriculum, cost structure, academic continuity, transition support, credentials, and student experience. Learn how edept’s Global Pathway connects India-based preparation with a STEM Master of Applied Science in Data Science in the United States.
What Is the 6+12 Month Study Model?
The 6+12 study model is an 18-month academic pathway that divides a U.S. Data Science master’s journey between India and the United States. It is structured as a connected progression, rather than two unrelated study experiences. Students spend the first six months in the India Track at Mahindra University. They then complete 12 months in the USA Track at Illinois Tech in Chicago. The brochure contrasts this with a traditional Master of Applied Science route that may involve 18 to 20 months of study in Chicago.Six Months in India at Mahindra University
The India Track focuses on building the foundation needed for advanced Data Science study. Students complete foundational and applied modules at Mahindra University with academic monitoring and mentoring throughout the phase. Key subjects include:- Programming for Data Science using Python
- Statistics and Probability for Analytics
- Data Management and SQL
- Data Visualization and Business
- Introduction to Machine Learning
- Cloud and Data Infrastructure Fundamentals
- Applied projects and assessments
Twelve Months in Chicago at Illinois Tech
After completing the India Track, students transition to Illinois Tech in Chicago for advanced Master of Applied Science coursework. The U.S. phase builds on the concepts introduced during the first six months. Students study areas such as:- Advanced Machine Learning
- Artificial Intelligence Foundations
- Big Data Analytics
- Data Engineering and High-Performance Computing
- Data Strategy and Governance
- Capstone Project
- Master’s Thesis
- Industry-oriented project work
Build global-ready skills with edept’s Master’s in Data Science program
Begin Your Journey!
Why Is the Master’s Divided Into Two Study Locations?
The two-location structure is designed to create a gradual academic and personal transition. Students develop their core technical skills in India, then use that foundation to engage with advanced master’s-level coursework in Chicago. According to the brochure, credits earned during the India phase align with the U.S. curriculum. This means the pathway is designed as one continuous academic journey, not as a delay before beginning the master’s degree.Academic Preparation Before Chicago
The India phase develops the skills students need for the advanced topics that follow. Python supports later programming and modeling work. Statistics and probability support machine learning. SQL and data management prepare students for large-scale data and engineering concepts. Beginning with these building blocks can make the transition into advanced coursework more manageable. Students are introduced to both technical foundations and applied project work before relocating.Advanced Learning During the U.S. Phase
The Chicago phase is where students complete advanced MAS in Data Science coursework. Rather than repeating introductory material, the curriculum moves into deeper work in artificial intelligence, advanced machine learning, Big Data analytics, data engineering, and high-performance computing. This progression helps students understand how individual technical skills work together in complex data environments. They also engage in capstone, thesis, and industry-oriented project work during the U.S. phase.What Do Students Study During the 6-Month India Phase?
The six-month India phase is built around the academic essentials of modern Data Science. It gives students a structured opportunity to strengthen programming, quantitative reasoning, databases, visualization, and introductory machine learning before moving abroad. At Mahindra University, the curriculum combines conceptual learning with applied work. The India Track combines foundational subjects with applied projects and assessments to build students’ Data Science foundation.Programming and Quantitative Foundations
Programming for Data Science introduces students to Python, a language widely used for data analysis, automation, machine learning, and visualization. Students learn to think computationally and work with data in a structured way. Statistics and Probability for Analytics provide the mathematical base for interpreting data responsibly. These subjects help students understand variation, patterns, uncertainty, and the logic behind many analytical methods. Together, Python, statistics, and probability prepare students for more advanced machine learning and AI study later in the pathway.Data Management and Analytics
Data Management and SQL focus on storing, retrieving, organizing, and querying information. These skills matter because most business and research data exists in databases or distributed systems rather than in clean spreadsheet files. Data Visualization and Business help students communicate findings to different audiences. A technically correct analysis is only useful when decision-makers can understand what it means and what action may follow. This part of the India Track helps students connect data work with business problems, operational questions, and decision-making.Initial Machine Learning and Infrastructure Exposure
The India Track also introduces students to machine learning and cloud or data infrastructure fundamentals. Introductory machine learning helps students understand the role of models in prediction, classification, and pattern recognition. Cloud and Data Infrastructure Fundamentals offer early exposure to the systems that support data storage, computing, and analysis at scale. Applied projects and assessments allow students to practice connecting these concepts instead of treating them as separate subjects.How long do I study in the USA?
The 12-month U.S. phase takes place at Illinois Tech in Chicago. It is the advanced stage of edept’s Master of Applied Science in Data Science in partnership with Illinois Tech and Mahindra University. Students enter this phase after building their foundation in India. The curriculum is not a repetition of prior learning. It expands the technical depth, project scope, and strategic understanding expected in an advanced Data Science program.Advanced Technical Learning
Advanced Machine Learning takes students beyond introductory models and into more complex approaches to data-driven prediction and decision-making. Artificial Intelligence Foundations provides a broader view of AI concepts and applications. Big Data Analytics focuses on analyzing large and complex datasets. Data Engineering and High-Performance Computing address the systems and computational approaches needed to process data reliably and efficiently. These subjects are valuable for students who want to understand not only how to build a model, but also how analytical systems operate in larger organizational settings.Strategic and Applied Learning
Technical ability is only one part of a Data Science career. Data Strategy and Governance help students consider how organizations manage, use, protect, and derive value from data. The capstone project, master’s thesis, and industry-oriented project work give students opportunities to apply learning to substantial problems. These experiences can help students build a stronger portfolio and articulate their skills in professional settings.How Does the 6+12 Model Compare With a Traditional Master’s in the USA?
The main difference between a traditional MAS route and the 6+12 month master’s pathway is where students complete the initial academic phase. Both routes lead to study at Illinois Tech, but the pathway begins with six months in India. The brochure presents the model as a structured progression that can reduce the period of U.S.-based spending without presenting it as a reduction in academic rigor.| Factor | Traditional MAS | 6+12 Global Pathway |
| Study duration in the USA | 18 to 20 months | 12 months |
| India study phase | No | 6 months |
| U.S. university | Illinois Tech | Illinois Tech |
| Total estimated cost | About $109,000 | About $78,500 |
| Estimated savings | Not applicable | About $30,600 |
| Study model | Entirely in Chicago | India plus Chicago |
Difference in Study Duration in the USA
A traditional MAS format involves spending the entire 18 to 20 months in Chicago. In the 6+12 study model, students spend six months in India and 12 months in Chicago. A shorter period of U.S. residence should not be interpreted as reduced academic value. The pathway is designed so that foundational coursework in India aligns with the later U.S. curriculum.Difference in Overall Cost
The India phase shifts part of the academic and living expenditure away from the United States. Students pay U.S.-based costs during the defined 12-month Chicago phase. The brochure estimates total attendance costs at approximately $78,500 for the pathway, compared with approximately $109,000 for the traditional route. That is an estimated difference of about $30,600.How Does the 6+12 Model Help Reduce the Overall Cost?
Cost is one of the strongest practical reasons students consider a phased international master’s program. The 6+12 structure lets students complete the first part of their education in India before taking on Chicago-based tuition and living expenses. The brochure describes this as a smart cost structure. It estimates up to 30 percent all-in savings, including living costs, compared with a traditional full-duration Chicago route.Paying for U.S. Costs for a Defined Period
The U.S. phase is set at 12 months. Knowing this duration can make it easier to plan for tuition, housing, food, health insurance, transportation, and other daily expenses. Students should still create an individual budget because lifestyle, housing preferences, travel, exchange rates, and personal spending affect the final cost. The brochure’s figures are estimates rather than fixed charges.Planning Housing, Food and Living Costs
The brochure’s total cost of attendance estimate includes tuition, housing, food, fees, and other standard living expenses at current Illinois Tech rates. Students should account for possible variations in accommodation, meal choices, flights, health insurance, and personal needs. A phased model can support more predictable planning, but responsible budgeting remains essential.
Build global-ready skills with edept’s Master’s in Data Science program
Begin Your Journey!
How Does the 6+12 Model Make the Transition to the USA Easier?
Moving to another country involves more than receiving an admission letter. Students must manage documents, visa requirements, finances, travel, housing, and adjustment to a new academic environment. The program provides end-to-end support across application, visa preparation, travel, study, and graduation stages. This support is intended to make the India-to-U.S. transition more organized. Visa and Financial Preparation Edept supports students with visa guidance, financial documentation, interview preparation, and pre-departure orientation for the U.S. phase. Students remain responsible for meeting all official visa requirements and providing accurate documents. However, structured guidance can help them understand timelines, paperwork, and preparation needs before travel.Preparing for Life in Chicago
The transition process also includes accommodation guidance and relocation preparation. These elements can be particularly useful for students traveling internationally for the first time. Understanding practical details before departure can reduce uncertainty. Students can focus more fully on advanced academic work once they arrive in Chicago.Why Is Academic Continuity Important in the 6+12 Model?
A common question is whether studying in India first disrupts the master’s experience. The brochure addresses this by stating that India-earned credits align fully with the U.S. curriculum. The two phases are designed as a connected academic progression. India focuses on foundational and applied learning, while the U.S. phase focuses on advanced MAS-level study.Foundation-to-Advanced Progression
The sequence follows a clear learning pattern:- Statistics and probability lead into machine learning.
- Python supports advanced technical work.
- Data management prepares students for Big Data and data engineering.
- Visualization and business learning support data strategy and governance.
Continuous Academic Support
During the India phase, students receive academic monitoring and mentoring. This support can help students identify gaps and strengthen their understanding before transitioning overseas. At Illinois Tech, students continue into advanced coursework, capstone work, and thesis-based learning. The partnership is structured around progression, rather than presenting the two locations as disconnected academic experiences.What Is Student Life Like During the Chicago Phase?
Chicago is a major U.S. business and technology hub, offering exposure to industries that use data science in varied ways. Students can experience a large city while completing the advanced 12-month phase at Illinois Tech. The brochure highlights opportunities across technology, finance, healthcare, consulting, and logistics, as well as access to professional networks, research communities, and entrepreneurial activity.Learning in a Major Business and Tech Hub
Chicago’s economy includes Fortune 500 companies, technology firms, startups, consulting organizations, and research-focused institutions. This environment can offer students context for how analytics and AI are used across industries. Location alone does not guarantee an outcome, but it can create opportunities to attend events, build connections, and learn from a broad professional ecosystem.Beyond the Classroom
The Chicago phase also offers exposure to a diverse global community, public transportation, cultural spaces, and an active research and entrepreneurial environment. Students can use this period to develop independence, build professional networks, and explore interests beyond coursework while staying focused on academic responsibilities.What Credentials Do Students Earn Through the 6+12 Pathway?
The 6+12 pathway leads to two different credentials earned at different stages. It should not be described as a dual master’s degree. Students receive a PGP certificate from Mahindra University and, after successfully completing the U.S. phase, a STEM Master of Applied Science in Data Science from Illinois Tech.Credential From the India Phase
After the India Track, students earn a PGP certificate from Mahindra University. This credential reflects the foundational and applied learning completed during the first six months.Master’s Degree From the U.S. Phase
After completing the advanced program requirements at Illinois Tech, students earn a STEM-designated Master of Applied Science in Data Science. The STEM designation is relevant because eligible graduates may receive up to 36 months of U.S. work authorization through OPT and STEM OPT, subject to applicable rules. Who Is the 6+12 Global Pathway Designed For? The pathway is suited to students who want to pursue a U.S. Data Science master’s degree through a structured India-to-USA journey. It is especially relevant for applicants who want academic preparation before relocation and a clearer cost framework. Applicants should evaluate their academic background, quantitative readiness, programming exposure, finances, and international study goals before applying.Students With a Quantitative Background
The program is designed for students with a bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or a related field. A strong quantitative background is expected. Programming exposure in Python, C++, or Java is preferred but not required. Students with relevant foundations can use the India phase to strengthen their readiness for advanced study. Students Looking for a Structured International Journey This pathway may appeal to students who want academic continuity, guidance through international transition, and a shorter duration of U.S.-based study than a traditional full-duration route. It may also suit cost-conscious students who want to understand their likely overseas spending period in advance. Individual outcomes still depend on academic performance, visa decisions, financial readiness, and personal planning.6+12 Master’s Pathway: The Complete Journey at a Glance
The table below shows the sequence of edept’s Master of Applied Science in Data Science in partnership with Illinois Tech and Mahindra University. It highlights how academic preparation, transition support, and advanced U.S. study fit together.| Stage | Duration | Location | Focus |
| India Track | 6 months | Mahindra University | Foundational and applied Data Science |
| Transition | Varies | India to USA | Visa, financial documentation, and pre-departure support |
| USA Track | 12 months | Illinois Tech, Chicago | Advanced MAS in Data Science |
| Graduation | After completion | Illinois Tech | STEM MAS in Data Science |
Frequently Asked Questions
This section answers common questions about the 6+12 month master’s pathway. Program details, eligibility criteria, costs, and immigration rules can change, so students should confirm current requirements before applying.What is a 6+12 master’s pathway?
It is an 18-month study model with six months of learning in India and 12 months of advanced study in the United States.How does the 6+12 Data Science pathway work?
Students begin at Mahindra University, complete foundational and applied Data Science coursework, then transition to Illinois Tech in Chicago for advanced MAS study.How long do I study in India?
The India Track lasts six months. How long do I study in the USA? The U.S. phase lasts 12 months at Illinois Tech in Chicago.Is the 6+12 program more affordable than a traditional master’s?
The brochure estimates approximately $78,500 for the pathway versus approximately $109,000 for a traditional Chicago-based route, an estimated difference of about $30,600. Actual costs vary. Does studying in India affect my U.S. master’s degree? The India-earned credits align with the U.S. curriculum. Students complete the advanced MAS degree requirements at Illinois Tech.Where do I complete my MAS in Data Science?
You complete the advanced Master of Applied Science in Data Science phase at Illinois Tech in Chicago.What credentials will I receive?
Students receive a PGP certificate from Mahindra University and a STEM Master of Applied Science in Data Science from Illinois Tech after fulfilling all relevant requirements. Does the program provide visa and transition support? Yes. The brochure describes support for visa guidance, financial documentation, pre-departure orientation, accommodation guidance, and relocation preparation. Is the MAS in Data Science STEM-designated? Yes. The brochure identifies the Illinois Tech Master of Applied Science in Data Science as STEM-designated.Start Your Data Science Journey With the 6+12 Global Pathway
The 6+12 month master’s pathway divides an international academic journey into six months at Mahindra University and 12 months at Illinois Tech in Chicago. Students begin with foundational Data Science learning, then move into advanced MAS-level study, capstone work, and a master’s thesis. The brochure emphasizes three key benefits: academic continuity, optimized U.S. spending, and guided international transition. It also highlights Illinois Tech’s 2026 recognition for graduate salary outcomes in Illinois and its placement among the top U.S. universities in the cited rankings. Explore edept’s Master of Applied Science in Data Science in partnership with Illinois Tech and Mahindra University at www.edept.co to determine whether this Global Pathway Program fits your goals for a master’s in the USA.
Build global-ready skills with edept’s Master’s in Data Science program
Begin Your Journey!