UCA Launches First Master’s Programme in Economics and Data Science

The University of Central Asia (UCA) is proud to announce the launch of its first-ever Master of Science (MSc) in Economics and Data Science, a two-year graduate programme designed to equip students with the economic knowledge, analytical skills and technical expertise needed to make evidence-based decisions in a rapidly changing world.

Based in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, the programme is delivered in English and carries 120 ECTS. Its flexible academic schedule is designed to allow working professionals to pursue a graduate degree while continuing their careers.

“The purpose of the programme is to help develop a new generation of professionals capable of addressing the complex economic and social challenges facing Central Asia. Our ambition is not simply to produce strong technical graduates but professionals who can apply knowledge responsibly and effectively. This marks an important step forward for UCA as we expand graduate education and build a stronger portfolio of programmes that support knowledge, skills, and leadership across Central Asia” - noted Professor Christopher Gerry, Rector of the University of Central Asia.

Applications Now Open

The programme is accepting applications for its inaugural cohort.

Priority application and scholarship deadline: 20 September 2026
Final application deadline: 4 October 2026
Classes begin: 19 October 2026

Connecting Economics, Data And Decision-Making

The MSc in Economics and Data Science brings together economic thinking, data-driven analysis and practical decision-making. Students will learn to identify and frame complex economic and social questions, uncover patterns in data, evaluate possible responses and communicate evidence in ways that governments, businesses and organisations can act on.

The programme is particularly relevant to the growing demand for professionals who can combine economic expertise with data and analytical skills across Central Asia and beyond.

A practical and regionally focused curriculum

The programme follows a progressive structure, beginning with foundations in economics, mathematics, statistics, programming and research design before moving to advanced analytical methods, applied policy analysis and independent research.

Each semester carries 30 ECTS. During the first year, students complete core academic and technical courses. The second year focuses on programme evaluation, data ethics, electives and independent thesis research, alongside a supervised practicum that provides an opportunity to develop teaching skills.

Throughout the programme, students will work with real-world data and challenges, applying their knowledge to issues relevant to Central Asia and the wider region.

According to Marzhan Aikimbaeva, Associate Director of Education, this programme reflects a broader effort at UCA to strengthen graduate education in the region and respond to emerging regional priorities: “By encouraging graduates with analytical and data-driven skills needed for economic policy, the programme aims to address challenges in areas such as digitalisation, climate action, and sustainable development”.

The combination of economics, data analysis and policy skills will enable graduates to contribute to evidence-based decision-making across Central Asia and internationally.

Tuition and scholarships

Annual tuition for the MSc in Economics and Data Science is:

USD 6,000 per year for students from UCA’s Founding States — Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Tajikistan
USD 12,000 per year for international students

Students interested in scholarship opportunities should apply by the priority application and scholarship deadline of 20 September 2026.

The launch of the MSc in Economics and Data Science marks a new step in UCA’s commitment to developing highly skilled professionals equipped to address the economic, social and development challenges facing Central Asia and beyond.