Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

The mission of the Institute for Data, Systems, and Society (IDSS) is to advance education and research in state-of-the-art, analytical methods in information and decision systems; statistics and data science; and the social sciences, and to apply these methods to address complex societal challenges in a diverse set of areas such as energy systems, finance, healthcare, social networks, and urban science. Its mission also includes the creation of an MIT-wide focal point for advancing research and educational programs related to statistics and data science.

Technology advances in areas such as smart sensors, big data, communications, computing, and social networking are rapidly scaling the size and complexity of interconnected systems and networks and, at the same time, are generating massive data that can lead to new insights and understanding. Research at IDSS will aim to understand and analyze data from across these systems, which present unique and substantial challenges due to scale, complexity, and the difficulties of extracting clear, actionable insights.

Our ability to understand data and develop models across complex, interconnected systems is at the core of our ability to uncover new insights and solutions.

Spanning all five schools at MIT, IDSS embraces the collision and synthesis of ideas and methods from analytical disciplines including statistics, data science, information theory and inference, systems and control theory, optimization, economics, human and social behavior, and network science. These disciplines are relevant both for understanding complex systems and for presenting design principles and architectures that allow for the systems’ quantification and management. IDSS seeks to integrate these areas, fostering new collaborations, introducing new paradigms and abstractions, and utilizing the power of data to address societal challenges.

Undergraduate Study

Minor in Statistics and Data Science

The Minor in Statistics and Data Science provides students with a working knowledge base in statistics, probability, and computation, along with an ability to perform data analysis. For a description of the minor, see Interdisciplinary Programs.

Master of Science in Technology and Policy

Doctor of Philosophy Social and Engineering Systems

Graduate Study

IDSS provides educational programs anchored in the following intellectual pillars: statistics, information and decision sciences, and human and institutional behavior.

IDSS’s academic programs embrace the collision and synthesis of ideas and methods from analytical disciplines, including statistics, stochastic modeling, information theory and inference, systems and control theory, optimization, economics, human and social behavior, and network science. Each of these fields in isolation is an insufficient basis for a deep understanding of complex interactions and systems. However, the intersections of these disciplines provide new tools and perspectives for understanding complex systems, addressing overarching challenges (including sustainability and systemic risk), and presenting design principles and architectures that enable those systems’ quantification, management, and regulation.

Inquiries about IDSS academic programs may be directed to the Academic Office.

Admission Requirements for Graduate Study

Application forms for all programs are available online. Applicants whose first language is not English must offer evidence of written and oral proficiency in English by registering for the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam, academic format, and achieving a score of 7.5 or better. Information about the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) can be obtained through the IDSS website. Applicants should refer to the details of each program concerning specific requirements for admission.

Master of Science in Technology and Policy

The Technology and Policy Program (TPP) educates students seeking leadership roles in the constructive development and use of technology—an area that is not well served by the traditional education of technical or social science specialists. TPP focuses on meeting the need for leaders who are engineers and scientists—people with not only strong technical foundations but also the skills and abilities to deal cogently and effectively with the economic, political, and administrative dimensions of the technological challenges of the 21st century.

The Master of Science in Technology and Policy is an engineering research degree with a focus on the increasingly central role of technology in the framing, formulation, and resolution of policy problems. Many students combine TPP's curriculum with complementary subjects to obtain dual degrees in TPP and either a specialized branch of engineering or an applied social science, such as political science or urban studies and planning.

TPP's coursework provides a solid grounding in technology and policy by combining advanced subjects in the student's chosen technical field with courses in economics, politics, modern quantitative methods, and social science. All students must complete a satisfactory research thesis that has a substantial technology and policy component. In order to prepare students for effective professional practice, TPP stresses leadership and communication. It also encourages students to participate in TPP's summer internship program, which places students in government and industry in the US and around the world.

The TPP curriculum consists of three blocks of subjects and a research thesis. The first block is a required integrative subject in technology and policy and a subject in applied quantitative methods. The second block focuses on training in formal frameworks for policy development and consists of subjects in microeconomics, political economy, and one core restricted elective that treats problems of technology and policy from a domain that is outside that of the students' area of research concentration and deepens the students' understanding of framings and rationales for governance in this area. The third block comprises a minimum of three coherent electives that fulfill professional and research objectives. The research thesis is the culmination of scholarship integrating technology and policy.

Completion of the academic and research requirements of the TPP SM typically takes four terms.

The TPP curriculum normally begins in September; applications are due by December 15. TPP seeks applicants with relevant work or research experience as well as the ability to demonstrate evidence of leadership and initiative in their professional or other activities. All applicants should have a strong basis in engineering or science. For the 2026 admissions cycle, the GRE General Test will be optional.

Contact the TPP program office, Room E17-373, 617-258-7295, for additional information.

Doctor of Philosophy in Social and Engineering Systems

The Doctor of Philosophy in Social and Engineering Systems (SES) is focused on addressing concrete and societally significant problems by combining methods from computing, data science and statistics, engineering, and the social sciences. The program includes coursework that prepares students for advanced, rigorous, and original research leading to a doctoral thesis. Both coursework and research must include breadth and depth in engineering and quantitative methods, as well as in the social sciences, and in a particular application or problem domain.

Student research in SES is

Driven by problems of societal interest, in areas including, but not limited to energy, finance, health care, social networks, urban science, as well as in policy-related topics.
Involves quantitative methods of computing and information sciences. The program is focused on problems that can be addressed through mathematical modeling and data analysis.
Relies on real-world data. Research is expected to analyze data from the application domain of interest and draw upon the training provided in statistics, etc., through the program coursework.
Engages societal aspects of the problem, incorporating theories and tools from the social sciences in the research.

An orientation and core component ensures that all SES students share a common foundation. Students use the core subjects to fulfill part of their Information Systems and Decision Science Focus and Social Science Focus requirements. Additional coursework in those focuses should be at a more advanced level. 6.7700[J] Fundamentals of Probability is typically used to satisfy the Information Systems and Decision Science Focus requirement for a subject with substantial math content. Likewise, the Statistics Core subjects can satisfy the Information Systems and Decision Science Focus requirement for a subject that covers the statistical processing of data. Students are encouraged to satisfy 12 units of the Problem Domain requirement with an internship for academic credit over a summer term (IDS.955 Practical Experience in Data, Systems, and Society). They may also use a subject from their Social Science Focus to satisfy one of the required subjects for the Problem Domain Focus.

Students are not required to repeat substantial, relevant graduate subjects they may have already taken but are encouraged to take more advanced coursework that furthers their preparation. In some cases, especially when no such coursework is available, waivers for some of the requirements may be granted by the graduate program committee. In all cases, however, at least 75 units used to satisfy the coursework portion of the program—IDS.900 Doctoral Seminar in Social and Engineering Systems, the Core, and the focuses in Information Systems and Decision Science Focus, Social Science Focus, and Problem Domain Focus—must be taken while enrolled in SES.

By the end of the second regular term in the program, the student must identify a research advisor and submit the first draft of their program plan to the IDSS Academic Office. Thereafter, the program plan must be regularly updated and available during subsequent academic advising meetings with the academic advisor, research advisor, and IDSS Academic Office. The final program plan must be approved by the academic advisor and research advisor, and submitted to the IDSS Academic Office for approval by the graduate program committee, no later than Registration Day of the student’s penultimate term.

Students qualify as candidates for the doctoral degree in two phases: by passing a written qualifying exam (typically by strong performance in Core subjects or, in special cases, through the cumulative final exam for a Core subject); and by passing an oral qualifying exam. Details on timing, number of attempts, and grade thresholds are available on the program website, but no student is allowed more than two attempts to qualify.

All students must complete a teaching traineeship as well; most do this after the written qualifying exam. This requirement must be met before accepting a teaching assistantship.

Within one year of passing the oral qualifying exam, candidates must form a complete doctoral committee and submit a thesis proposal to the program. The student’s research advisor assigns the final grade for IDS.970 Pre-Thesis Research on the basis of the approved thesis proposal. Thereafter, candidates register for research units using IDS.ThG Graduate Thesis.

Students and candidates must register for a minimum of 6 research units every term. Normal fall and spring term registration is 12–36 research units; normal summer term registration is 24 units. Students are expected to graduate within four-and-a-half to six years. Program durations closer to six years are normal for students building up a publication and teaching portfolio in preparation for an academic job search.

The PhD in SES is a full-time, residential program. Applications are due by December 15; admitted students start the program the following September.

Further information about SES is available on the program website or by contacting the IDSS Academic Office.

Faculty and Teaching Staff

Fotini Christia, PhD

Ford International Professor of the Social Sciences

Professor of Political Science

Director, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Dean Eckles, PhD

William F. Pounds Professor of Management

Professor of Marketing

Associate Director, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Frank R. Field III, PhD

Senior Research Engineer

Lecturer of Data, Systems, and Society

Graduate Officer, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Ankur Moitra, PhD

Norbert Wiener Professor

Professor of Mathematics

Associate Director, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Professors

Alberto Abadie, PhD

Professor of Economics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Daron Acemoglu, PhD

Institute Professor

Professor of Economics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Saurabh Amin, PhD

Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Sinan Aral, PhD

David Austin Professor in Management

Professor of Information Technology and Marketing

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

(On leave, spring)

Nicholas A. Ashford, JD, PhD

Professor of Technology and Policy

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Hamsa Balakrishnan, PhD

William E. Leonhard (1940) Professor

Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Adam Berinsky, PhD

Mitsui Professor of Political Science

Professor of Political Science

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

(On leave)

Dimitri P. Bertsekas, PhD

Jerry McAfee (1940) Professor Post-Tenure in Engineering

Professor Post-Tenure of Electrical Engineering

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Robert C. Berwick, PhD

Professor Post-Tenure of Computer Science and Engineering and Computational Linguistics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Alessandro Bonatti, PhD

John Norris Maguire (1960) Professor

Professor of Applied Economics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Emery N. Brown, MD, PhD

Edward Hood Taplin Professor of Medical Engineering

Warren M. Zapol Professor of Anaesthesia, HMS

Professor of Computational Neuroscience

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Core Faculty, Institute for Medical Engineering and Science

Devin Caughey, PhD

Class of 1949 Professor of Political Science

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Victor V. Chernozhukov, PhD

Ford International Professor

Professor of Economics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Nazli Choucri, PhD

Professor Post-Tenure of Political Science

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Munther A. Dahleh, PhD

William A. Coolidge Professor

Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Richard de Neufville, PhD

Professor of Data, Systems, and Society

Esther Duflo, PhD

Abdul Latif Jameel Professor of Poverty Alleviation and Development Economics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Robert Michael Freund, PhD

Theresa Seley Professor Post-Tenure in Management Science

Professor Post-Tenure of Operations Research

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

David Gamarnik, PhD

Nanyang Technological University Professor

Professor of Operations Research

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

(On leave, fall)

Polina Golland, PhD

Sunlin (1966) and Priscilla Chou Professor

Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Stephen C. Graves, PhD

Abraham J. Siegel Professor Post-Tenure of Management

Professor Post-Tenure of Operations Management and Leaders for Global Operations

Professor Post-Tenure of Mechanical Engineering

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

D. Fox Harrell Jr, PhD

Professor of Digital Media

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Daniel E. Hastings, PhD

Cecil and Ida Green Professor in Education

Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

(On leave)

Anette E. Hosoi, PhD

Neil and Jane Pappalardo Professor

Professor of Mechanical Engineering

Professor of Mathematics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Tommi S. Jaakkola, PhD

Thomas M. Siebel Distinguished Professor

Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

(On leave, fall)

Ali Jadbabaie, PhD

JR East Professor of Engineering

Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering

Head, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Patrick Jaillet, PhD

Dugald C. Jackson Professor in Electrical Engineering

Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Sertac Karaman, PhD

Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Christopher Roland Knittel, PhD

George P. Shultz Professor

Professor of Applied Economics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Associate Dean for Climate and Sustainability, MIT Sloan School of Management

Andrew W. Lo, PhD

Charles E. and Susan T. Harris Professor

Professor of Finance

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Youssef M. Marzouk, PhD

Breene M. Kerr (1951) Professor

Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Alexandre Megretski, PhD

Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

(On leave, fall)

Eytan H. Modiano, PhD

Richard Cockburn Maclaurin Professor in Aeronautics and Astronautics

Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Dava Newman, PhD

Apollo Program Professor of Astronautics and Engineering Systems

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Affiliate Faculty, Institute for Medical Engineering and Science

Member, Health Sciences and Technology Faculty

(On leave, fall)

Christine Ortiz, PhD

Morris Cohen Professor of Materials Science and Engineering

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Asuman E. Ozdaglar, PhD

MathWorks Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Head, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Professor of Electrical Engineering

Deputy Dean of Academics, MIT Schwarzman College of Computing

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Pablo A. Parrilo, PhD

Joseph F. and Nancy P. Keithley Professor

Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Professor of Mathematics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Alex Pentland, PhD

Professor Post-Tenure of Media Arts and Sciences

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Jaime Peraire, PhD

H. N. Slater Professor in Aeronautics and Astronautics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Yury Polyanskiy, PhD

Leverett Howell Cutten ’07 and William King Cutten ’39 Professor

Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Hazhir Rahmandad, PhD

Schussel Family Professor of Management Science

Professor of System Dynamics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Alexander Rakhlin, PhD

Professor of Brain and Cognitive Sciences

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Roberto Rigobon, PhD

Society of Sloan Fellows Professor

Professor of Applied Economics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Philippe Rigollet, PhD

Cecil and Ida Green Distinguished Professor

Professor of Mathematics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Deb K. Roy, PhD

Professor of Media Arts and Sciences

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Themistoklis Sapsis, PhD

William I. Koch Professor

Professor of Mechanical and Ocean Engineering

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Lawrence Sass, PhD

Professor of Computation and Design

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Noelle Eckley Selin, PhD

Professor of Data, Systems, and Society

Professor of Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences

Devavrat Shah, PhD

Andrew (1956) and Erna Viterbi Professor

Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Yossi Sheffi, PhD

Elisha Gray II Professor

Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Susan S. Silbey, PhD

Leon and Anne Goldberg Professor of Humanities

Professor of Sociology and Anthropology

Professor of Behavioral and Policy Studies

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

David Simchi-Levi, PhD

Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Jean-Jacques E. Slotine, PhD

Professor of Mechanical Engineering

Professor of Brain and Cognitive Sciences

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

John Sterman, PhD

Jay W. Forrester Professor of Management

Professor of System Dynamics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

(On leave)

Charles H. Stewart III, PhD

Kenan Sahin (1963) Distinguished Professor

Professor of Political Science

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

(On leave, fall)

Tavneet Suri, PhD

Louis E. Seley Professor in Applied Economics

Professor of Applied Economics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Jesse Thaler, PhD

Professor of Physics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

(On leave)

Jessika Trancik, PhD

Professor of Data, Systems, and Society

John N. Tsitsiklis, PhD

Clarence J. LeBel Professor Post-Tenure in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Professor Post-Tenure of Electrical Engineering

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Caroline Uhler, PhD

Andrew (1956) and Erna Viterbi Professor of Engineering

Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Martin J. Wainwright, PhD

Cecil H. Green Professor

Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Professor of Mathematics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Roy E. Welsch, PhD

Eastman Kodak Leaders for Global Operations Professor of Management

Professor of Statistics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Michael Williams, PhD

Professor of Physics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Moe Z. Win, PhD

Robert R. Taylor Professor

Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Gregory W. Wornell, PhD

Sumitomo Electric Industries Professor in Engineering

Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Jinhua Zhao, PhD

Professor of Urban Planning and Transportation

Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

(On leave, fall)

Associate Professors

Rahul Bhui, PhD

Class of 1958 Career Development Professor

Associate Professor of Marketing

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Guy Bresler, PhD

Associate Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Tamara A. Broderick, PhD

Associate Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Luca Carlone, PhD

Associate Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

(On leave)

Naoki Egami, PhD

Associate Professor of Political Science

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

F. Daniel Hidalgo, PhD

Associate Professor of Political Science

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Stefanie Sabrina Jegelka, ScD

Associate Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

In Song Kim, PhD

Associate Professor of Political Science

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Rahul Mazumder, PhD

Nanyang Technological University Professor

Associate Professor of Operations Research

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

(On leave, spring)

Richard Nielsen, PhD

Associate Professor of Political Science

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Ramesh Raskar, PhD

Associate Professor of Media Arts and Sciences

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Sarah E. Williams, MCP

Norman B. and Muriel Leventhal Professor

Associate Professor of Information Technologies and Urban Planning

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Cathy Wu, PhD

Associate Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Assistant Professors

Navid Azizan, PhD

Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Crystal Lee, PhD

Assistant Professor of Comparative Media Studies

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Sherrie Wang, PhD

Doherty Chair in Ocean Utilization

Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Research Staff

Senior Research Scientists

Stan N. Finkelstein, MD

Senior Research Scientist of Data, Systems, and Society

Principal Research Scientists

Audun Botterud, PhD

Principal Research Scientist of Data, Systems, and Society

Mardavij Roozbehani, PhD

Principal Research Scientist of Data, Systems, and Society

Kalyan Veeramachaneni, PhD

Principal Research Scientist of Data, Systems, and Society

Professors Emeriti

Richard Charles Larson, PhD

Mitsui Professor Emeritus

Professor Emeritus of Data, Systems, and Society

Daniel Roos, PhD

Professor Emeritus of Data, Systems, and Society

Professor Emeritus of Civil and Environmental Engineering

IDS.012[J] Statistics, Computation and Applications

Same subject as 2.092[J], 6.3730J
Subject meets with 2.093[J], 6.3732J, IDS.131[J]
Prereq: (6.100B, (18.03, 18.06, or 18.C06[J]), and (6.3700, 6.3800, 14.30, 16.09, or 18.05)) or permission of instructor
U (Spring)
3-1-8 units

Hands-on analysis of data demonstrates the interplay between statistics and computation. Includes four modules, each centered on a specific data set, and introduced by a domain expert. Provides instruction in specific, relevant analysis methods and corresponding algorithmic aspects. Potential modules may include medical data, gene regulation, social networks, finance data (time series), traffic, transportation, weather forecasting, policy, or industrial web applications. Projects address a large-scale data analysis question. Students taking graduate version complete additional assignments. Enrollment limited; priority to Statistics and Data Science minors, and to juniors and seniors.

C. Uhler, N. Azizan

IDS.013[J] Statistical Thinking and Data Analysis

Same subject as 15.075[J]
Prereq: 6.3700 or 15.069
U (Spring)
Not offered regularly; consult department
3-1-8 units. Institute LAB

See description under subject 15.075[J].

Staff

IDS.014[J] Fundamentals of Statistics

Same subject as 18.650[J]
Subject meets with 18.6501
Prereq: 6.3700 or 18.600
U (Fall, Spring)
4-0-8 units

See description under subject 18.650[J].

Fall: P. Rigollet. Spring: A. Katsevich

IDS.045[J] System Safety

Same subject as 16.63[J]
Prereq: None
U (Fall)
3-0-9 units. REST

See description under subject 16.63[J].

N. Leveson

IDS.050[J] Cybersecurity

Same subject as 17.447[J], MAS.460[J]
Subject meets with 17.448[J], IDS.350[J], MAS.660[J]
Prereq: None
U (Spring)
Not offered regularly; consult department
3-0-9 units. HASS-S

See description under subject 17.447[J].

N. Choucri, S. Pentland

IDS.055[J] Science, Technology, and Public Policy

Same subject as 17.309[J], STS.082[J]
Prereq: None
U (Fall)
Not offered regularly; consult department
4-0-8 units. HASS-S; CI-H
Credit cannot also be received for 17.310[J], IDS.412[J], STS.482[J]

See description under subject 17.309[J].

N. Selin

IDS.057[J] Data and Society

Same subject as 11.155[J], STS.005[J]
Prereq: None
Acad Year 2025-2026: Not offered
Acad Year 2026-2027: U (Spring)
3-0-9 units. HASS-H

See description under subject STS.005[J].

E. Medina, S. Williams

IDS.060[J] Environmental Law, Policy, and Economics: Pollution Prevention and Control

Same subject as 1.801[J], 11.021[J], 17.393[J]
Subject meets with 1.811[J], 11.630[J], 15.663[J], IDS.540[J]
Prereq: None
U (Spring)
3-0-9 units. HASS-S

Analyzes federal and state regulation of air and water pollution, hazardous waste, greenhouse gas emissions, and production/use of toxic chemicals. Analyzes pollution/climate change as economic problems and failure of markets. Explores the role of science and economics in legal decisions. Emphasizes use of legal mechanisms and alternative approaches (i.e., economic incentives, voluntary approaches) to control pollution and encourage chemical accident and pollution prevention. Focuses on major federal legislation, underlying administrative system, and common law in analyzing environmental policy, economic consequences, and role of the courts. Discusses classical pollutants and toxic industrial chemicals, greenhouse gas emissions, community right-to-know, and environmental justice. Develops basic legal skills: how to read/understand cases, regulations, and statutes. Students taking graduate version explore the subject in greater depth.

N. Ashford, C. Caldart

IDS.061[J] Regulation of Chemicals, Radiation, and Biotechnology

Same subject as 1.802[J], 11.022[J]
Subject meets with 1.812[J], 10.805[J], 11.631[J], IDS.436[J], IDS.541[J]
Prereq: IDS.060[J] or permission of instructor
U (Spring)
Not offered regularly; consult department
3-0-9 units

Focuses on policy design and evaluation in the regulation of hazardous substances and processes. Includes risk assessment, industrial chemicals, pesticides, food contaminants, pharmaceuticals, radiation and radioactive wastes, product safety, workplace hazards, indoor air pollution, biotechnology, victims' compensation, and administrative law. Health and economic consequences of regulation, as well as its potential to spur technological change, are discussed for each regulatory regime. Students taking the graduate version are expected to explore the subject in greater depth.

N. Ashford, C. Caldart

IDS.062[J] Global Environmental Negotiations

Same subject as 12.346[J]
Prereq: Permission of instructor
U (Fall)
Not offered regularly; consult department
2-0-4 units

Practical introduction to global environmental negotiations designed for science and engineering students. Covers basic issues in international negotiations, such as North-South conflict, implementation and compliance, trade, and historical perspective on global environmental treaties. Offers hands-on practice in developing and interpreting international agreements through role-play simulations and observation of ongoing climate change negotiating processes. Students taking graduate version complete additional assignments.

N. E. Selin

IDS.063[J] People and the Planet: Environmental Governance and Science

Same subject as 12.387[J], 15.874[J]
Prereq: None
U (Fall)
3-0-6 units

See description under subject 12.387[J].

N. Selin, S. Solomon, J. Sterman

IDS.065[J] Energy Systems for Climate Change Mitigation

Same subject as 1.067[J], 10.421[J]
Subject meets with 1.670[J], 10.621[J], IDS.521[J]
Prereq: (Calculus I (GIR), Chemistry (GIR), and Physics I (GIR)) or permission of instructor
U (Spring)
3-0-9 units

Reviews the contributions of energy systems to global greenhouse gas emissions, and the levers for reducing those emissions. Lectures and projects focus on evaluating energy systems against climate policy goals, using performance metrics such as cost, carbon intensity, and others. Student projects explore pathways for realizing emissions reduction scenarios. Projects address the climate change mitigation potential of energy technologies (hardware and software), technological and behavioral change trajectories, and technology and policy portfolios. Background in energy systems strongly recommended. Students taking the graduate version explore the subject in greater depth. Preference to students in the Energy Studies or Environment and Sustainability minors.

J. Trancik

IDS.066[J] Law, Technology, and Public Policy

Same subject as 11.122[J]
Subject meets with 11.422[J], 15.655[J], IDS.435[J]
Prereq: None
U (Fall)
3-0-9 units. HASS-S

Examines how law, economics, and technological change shape public policy, and how law can sway technological change; how the legal system responds to environmental, safety, energy, social, and ethical problems; how law and markets interact to influence technological development; and how law can affect wealth distribution, employment, and social justice. Covers energy/climate change; genetic engineering; telecommunications and role of misinformation; industrial automation; effect of regulation on technological innovation; impacts of antitrust law on innovation and equity; pharmaceuticals; nanotechnology; cost/benefit analysis as a decision tool; public participation in governmental decisions affecting science and technology; corporate influence on technology and welfare; and law and economics as competing paradigms to encourage sustainability. Students taking graduate version explore subject in greater depth.

N. Ashford, C. Caldart

IDS.075[J] Transportation: Foundations and Methods

Same subject as 1.041[J]
Subject meets with 1.200[J], 11.544[J], IDS.675[J]
Prereq: (1.010A and (1.00 or 1.000)) or permission of instructor
U (Spring)
3-1-8 units

See description under subject 1.041[J].

C. Wu

IDS.131[J] Statistics, Computation and Applications

Same subject as 2.093[J], 6.3732J
Subject meets with 2.092[J], 6.3730J, IDS.012[J]
Prereq: (6.100B, (18.03, 18.06, or 18.C06[J]), and (6.3700, 6.3800, 14.30, 16.09, or 18.05)) or permission of instructor
G (Spring)
3-1-8 units

Hands-on analysis of data demonstrates the interplay between statistics and computation. Includes four modules, each centered on a specific data set, and introduced by a domain expert. Provides instruction in specific, relevant analysis methods and corresponding algorithmic aspects. Potential modules may include medical data, gene regulation, social networks, finance data (time series), traffic, transportation, weather forecasting, policy, or industrial web applications. Projects address a large-scale data analysis question. Students taking graduate version complete additional assignments. Limited enrollment; priority to Statistics and Data Science minors and to juniors and seniors.

C. Uhler, N. Azizan

IDS.136[J] Graphical Models: A Geometric, Algebraic, and Combinatorial Perspective

Same subject as 6.7820J
Prereq: 6.3702 and 18.06
G (Fall)
Not offered regularly; consult department
3-0-9 units

Provides instruction in the geometric, algebraic and combinatorial perspective on graphical models. Presents methods for learning the underlying graph and inferring its parameters. Topics include exponential families, duality theory, conic duality, polyhedral geometry, undirected graphical models, Bayesian networks, Markov properties, total positivity of distributions, hidden variables, and tensor decompositions.

C. Uhler

IDS.140[J] Reinforcement Learning: Foundations and Methods

Same subject as 1.127[J], 6.7920J
Prereq: 6.3700 or permission of instructor
G (Fall)
4-0-8 units

See description under subject 6.7920J.

C. Wu, M. Dahleh

IDS.145[J] Data Mining: Finding the Models and Predictions that Create Value

Same subject as 15.062[J]
Subject meets with 15.0621
Prereq: 15.060, 15.075[J], or permission of instructor
Acad Year 2025-2026: Not offered
Acad Year 2026-2027: G (Fall; first half of term)
2-0-4 units

See description under subject 15.062[J].

R. E. Welsch

IDS.147[J] Statistical Machine Learning and Data Science

Same subject as 15.077[J]
Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Spring)
Not offered regularly; consult department
4-0-8 units

See description under subject 15.077[J].

R. E. Welsch

IDS.160[J] Mathematical Statistics: a Non-Asymptotic Approach

Same subject as 9.521[J], 18.656[J]
Prereq: (6.7700[J], 18.06, and 18.6501) or permission of instructor
G (Spring)
3-0-9 units

See description under subject 9.521[J].

S. Rakhlin, P. Rigollet

IDS.190 Doctoral Seminar in Statistics and Data Science

Prereq: None
G (Fall)
1-0-2 units

Interdisciplinary seminar explores diverse topics in statistics and data science. Restricted to students in the Interdisciplinary Doctoral Program in Statistics.

Consult D. Shah

IDS.250[J] The Theory of Operations Management

Same subject as 1.271[J], 15.764[J]
Prereq: (6.7210[J] and 6.7700[J]) or permission of instructor
G (Spring)
3-0-9 units
Can be repeated for credit.

See description under subject 15.764[J].

Staff

IDS.305[J] Business and Operations Analytics

Same subject as 1.275[J]
Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Spring; first half of term)
2-0-4 units

Provides instruction on identifying, evaluating, and capturing business analytics opportunities that create value. Also provides basic instruction in analytics methods and case study analysis of organizations that successfully deployed these techniques.

D. Simchi-Levi

IDS.332 System Design and Management for a Changing World: Combined

Engineering School-Wide Elective Subject.
Offered under: 1.146, 16.861, EM.422, IDS.332
Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Fall)
3-0-9 units
Credit cannot also be received for EM.423[J], IDS.333[J]

Practical-oriented subject that builds upon theory and methods and culminates in extended application. Covers methods to identify, value, and implement flexibility in design (real options). Topics include definition of uncertainties, simulation of performance for scenarios, screening models to identify desirable flexibility, decision analysis, and multidimensional economic evaluation. Students demonstrate proficiency through an extended application to a system design of their choice. Complements research or thesis projects. Class is "flipped" to maximize student engagement and learning. Meets with IDS.333[J] in the first half of term. Enrollment limited.

R. de Neufville

IDS.333[J] System Design and Management for a Changing World: Tools

Same subject as EM.423[J]
Prereq: None
G (Fall; first half of term)
3-0-3 units
Credit cannot also be received for 1.146, 16.861, EM.422, IDS.332

Focuses on design choices and decisions under uncertainty. Topics include identification and description of uncertainties using probability distributions; the calculation of commensurate measures of value, such as expected net present values; Monte Carlo simulation and risk analysis; and the use of decision analysis to explore alternative strategies and identify optimal initial choices. Presents applied analysis of practical examples from a variety of engineering systems using spreadsheet and decision analysis software. Class is "flipped" to maximize student engagement and learning. Meets with IDS.332 first half of term.

R. de Neufville

IDS.334[J] System Design and Management for a Changing World: Projects

Same subject as EM.424[J]
Prereq: IDS.333[J] or permission of instructor
G (Fall, Spring)
3-0-3 units

Focuses on implementation of flexibility (real options) in the design of products, start-ups, ongoing management of operations, or policy plans. Applies the methods presented in IDS.333[J]: recognition of uncertainty, identification of best opportunities for flexibility, and valuation of these options and their effective implementation. Students work on their own project concept, for which they develop a dynamic business plan for design, deployment, and most beneficial implementation of their system over time. Useful complement to thesis or research projects. Class is "flipped" to maximize student engagement and learning. Subject meets in second half of term in the fall and first half of term in the spring.

R. de Neufville

IDS.336[J] Systems Architecting Applied to Enterprises

Same subject as 16.855[J], EM.429[J]
Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Spring)
3-0-9 units

Focuses on understanding, designing and transforming sociotechnical enterprises using systems principles and practices. Includes discussions and reading on enterprise theory, systems architecting, transformation challenges and case studies of evolving enterprises. Covers frameworks and methods for ecosystem analysis, stakeholder analysis, design thinking, systems architecture and evaluation, and human-centered enterprise design strategies. Students engage in interactive breakout sessions during class and participate in a selected small team project to design a future architecture for a real-world enterprise. Selected projects are based on student interests in enterprises such as small, medium, or large companies, government agencies, academic units, start-ups, and nonprofit organizations.

D. Rhodes

IDS.337[J] Aerospace Biomedical and Life Support Engineering

Same subject as 16.423[J], HST.515[J]
Prereq: 16.06, 16.400, or permission of instructor
Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Spring)
Acad Year 2026-2027: Not offered
3-0-9 units

See description under subject 16.423[J].

D. J. Newman

IDS.338[J] Multidisciplinary Design Optimization

Same subject as 16.888[J], EM.428[J]
Prereq: 18.085 or permission of instructor
Acad Year 2025-2026: Not offered
Acad Year 2026-2027: G (Fall)
3-1-8 units

See description under subject 16.888[J].

O. de Weck

IDS.339[J] Space Systems Engineering

Same subject as 16.89[J]
Prereq: 16.842, 16.851, or permission of instructor
G (Spring)
4-2-6 units

See description under subject 16.89[J].

E. F. Crawley

IDS.340[J] System Safety Concepts

Same subject as 16.863[J]
Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Fall)
3-0-9 units

See description under subject 16.863[J]. Enrollment may be limited.

N. G. Leveson

IDS.341[J] Concepts in the Engineering of Software

Same subject as 16.355[J]
Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Spring)
3-0-9 units

See description under subject 16.355[J]. Enrollment may be limited.

N. G. Leveson

IDS.344[J] Applied Category Theory for Engineering Design (New)

Same subject as 1.144[J], 11.214[J], 16.880[J], EM.431[J]
Subject meets with 1.044[J], 11.114[J]
Prereq: (Calculus II (GIR) and 18.06) or permission of instructor
G (Fall)
4-0-8 units

See description under subject 1.144[J].

G. Zardini

IDS.350[J] Cybersecurity

Same subject as 17.448[J], MAS.660[J]
Subject meets with 17.447[J], IDS.050[J], MAS.460[J]
Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Spring)
Not offered regularly; consult department
3-0-9 units

See description under subject 17.448[J].

N. Choucri, S. Pentland

IDS.405 Critical Internet Studies

Subject meets with 21W.791[J], CMS.614[J], WGS.280[J]
Prereq: None
G (Fall, Spring)
3-0-9 units

Focuses on the power dynamics in internet-related technologies (including social networking platforms, surveillance technology, entertainment technologies, and emerging media forms). Theories and readings focus on the cultural, social, economic, and political aspects of internet use and design, with a special attention to gender and race. Topics include: online communication and communities, algorithms and search engines, activism and online resistance, surveillance and privacy, content moderation and platform governance, and the spread of dis- and misinformation. Instruction and practice in written and oral communication provided. Students taking the graduate version complete additional readings and assignments.

Staff

IDS.410 Modeling and Assessment for Policy

Prereq: None
G (Spring)
Not offered regularly; consult department
3-0-6 units

Explores how scientific information and quantitative models can be used to inform policy decision-making. Develops an understanding of quantitative modeling techniques and their role in the policy process through case studies and interactive activities. Addresses issues such as analysis of scientific assessment processes, uses of integrated assessment models, public perception of quantitative information, methods for dealing with uncertainties, and design choices in building policy-relevant models.

N. E. Selin

IDS.411 Concepts and Research in Technology and Policy

Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Fall)
3-0-6 units

Core integrative subject, with substantive participation from a series of guest faculty lecturers, examines key technology-policy concepts. Explores alternative framings of roles of technology in policy, emphasizing the implications of these alternatives upon problem-solving in the area. Exercises prepare students to apply these concepts in the framing of their thesis research. Preference to first-year students in the Technology and Policy Program.

F. Field

IDS.412[J] Science, Technology, and Public Policy

Same subject as 17.310[J], STS.482[J]
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Acad Year 2025-2026: Not offered
Acad Year 2026-2027: G (Fall)
4-0-8 units
Credit cannot also be received for 17.309[J], IDS.055[J], STS.082[J]

See description under subject 17.310[J].

N. Selin

IDS.435[J] Law, Technology, and Public Policy

Same subject as 11.422[J], 15.655[J]
Subject meets with 11.122[J], IDS.066[J]
Prereq: None
G (Fall)
3-0-9 units

Examines how law, economics, and technological change shape public policy, and how law can sway technological change; how the legal system responds to environmental, safety, energy, social, and ethical problems; how law and markets interact to influence technological development; and how law can affect wealth distribution, employment, and social justice. Covers energy/climate change; genetic engineering; telecommunications and the role of misinformation; industrial automation; effect of regulation on technological innovation; impacts of antitrust law on innovation and equity; pharmaceuticals; nanotechnology; cost/benefit analysis as a decision tool; public participation in governmental decisions affecting science and technology; corporate influence on technology and welfare; and law and economics as competing paradigms to encourage sustainability. Students taking graduate version explore subject in greater depth.

N. Ashford, C. Caldart

IDS.436[J] Technology, Law, and the Working Environment

Same subject as 10.805[J]
Subject meets with 1.802[J], 1.812[J], 11.022[J], 11.631[J], IDS.061[J], IDS.541[J]
Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Spring)
Not offered regularly; consult department
3-0-6 units

Addresses relationship between technology-related problems and the law applicable to work environment. National Labor Relations Act, Occupational Safety and Health Act. Toxic Substances Control Act, state worker's compensation, and suits by workers in the courts discussed. Problems related to occupational health and safety, collective bargaining as a mechanism for altering technology in the workplace, job alienation, productivity, and the organization of work addressed. Prior courses or experience in the environmental, public health, or law-related areas.

N. A. Ashford, C. C. Caldart

IDS.437[J] Technology, Globalization, and Sustainable Development

Same subject as 1.813[J], 11.466[J], 15.657[J]
Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Fall)
3-0-9 units

Investigates sustainable development, taking a broad view to include not only a healthy economic base, but also a sound environment, stable and rewarding employment, adequate purchasing power and earning capacity, distributional equity, national self-reliance, and maintenance of cultural integrity. Explores national, multinational, and international political and legal mechanisms to further sustainable development through transformation of the industrial state. Addresses the importance of technological innovation and the financial crisis of 2008 and the emergence of the Covid-19 pandemic, Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and inflation, as well as governmental interventions to reduce inequality.

N. Ashford

IDS.448 Professional Development: Policy Hackathon

Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Fall)
2-0-4 units
Can be repeated for credit.

Bridges knowledge to action for student organizers of the MIT Policy Hackathon. Students work with stakeholders to define needs for information and analysis, identify appropriate data sets, and craft problem statements that aim to provide actionable outputs for decision-making. Builds competence in management and organization, networking, presentation, and fundraising. Restricted to the student organizers for the MIT Policy Hackathon.

F. Field, N. E. Selin

IDS.449 Technology Policy Internship and Professional Perspectives Seminar

Prereq: IDS.411 or permission of instructor
G (Fall, Spring)
1-1-1 units
Can be repeated for credit.

Seminar examines what technology policy is in practice. Considers the question of "Who achieves what, when, how, and why?" regarding technology and policy. Students who completed summer internships present and dissect their experiences with special reference to specific cases in which they participated. Develops perspectives on practice in the field through sessions with alumni, other practitioners, and development professionals within MIT.

Staff

IDS.521[J] Energy Systems for Climate Change Mitigation

Same subject as 1.670[J], 10.621[J]
Subject meets with 1.067[J], 10.421[J], IDS.065[J]
Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Spring)
3-0-9 units

J. Trancik

IDS.522 Mapping and Evaluating New Energy Technologies

Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Spring)
Not offered regularly; consult department
3-0-9 units

Project-based seminar reviews recent developments in energy conversion and storage technologies. Merits of alternative technologies are debated based on their environmental performance and cost, and their potential improvement and scalability. Project teams develop qualitative insights, quantitative models, and interactive visualization tools to inform the future development of technologies. Models may probe how the impact of a technology depends on assumptions about future advancements in performance, and how quantitative performance targets can be estimated to inform investment and design decisions. Other projects may develop models to inform rational investments in a portfolio of technologies based on economic and environmental performance and scalability constraints. Both information-based (e.g., software and codified practices) and physical technologies will be discussed.

J. Trancik

IDS.526[J] Sustainability Science and Engineering

Same subject as 12.845[J]
Prereq: None
G (Spring)
Not offered regularly; consult department
3-0-6 units

Introduces and develops core ideas and concepts in the field of sustainability science and engineering from an engineering systems perspective. Takes an interdisciplinary approach to discuss case studies of sustainability systems research. Exposes students to techniques for sustainability research across engineering, natural and social science disciplines. Term projects focus on applying techniques.

N. E. Selin

IDS.540[J] Environmental Law, Policy, and Economics: Pollution Prevention and Control

Same subject as 1.811[J], 11.630[J], 15.663[J]
Subject meets with 1.801[J], 11.021[J], 17.393[J], IDS.060[J]
Prereq: None
G (Spring)
3-0-9 units

N. Ashford, C. Caldart

IDS.541[J] Regulation of Chemicals, Radiation, and Biotechnology

Same subject as 1.812[J], 11.631[J]
Subject meets with 1.802[J], 10.805[J], 11.022[J], IDS.061[J], IDS.436[J]
Prereq: IDS.540[J] or permission of instructor
G (Spring)
Not offered regularly; consult department
3-0-9 units

Focuses on policy design and evaluation in the regulation of hazardous substances and processes. Includes risk assessment, industrial chemicals, pesticides, food contaminants, pharmaceuticals, radiation and radioactive wastes, product safety, workplace hazards, indoor air pollution, biotechnology, victims' compensation, and administrative law. Health and economic consequences of regulation, as well as its potential to spur technological change, are discussed for each regulator regime. Students taking the graduate version are expected to explore the subject in greater depth.

N. Ashford, C.Caldart

IDS.620[J] Principles and Practice of Drug Development

Same subject as 10.547[J], 15.136[J], HST.920[J]
Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Fall)
3-0-6 units

See description under subject 15.136[J].

S. Finkelstein

IDS.670[J] Planning and Design of Airport Systems

Same subject as 1.231[J], 16.781[J]
Prereq: None
G (Spring)
Not offered regularly; consult department
3-0-9 units

Focuses on current practice, developing trends, and advanced concepts in airport design and planning. Considers economic, environmental, and other trade-offs related to airport location, as well as the impacts of emphasizing "green" measures. Includes an analysis of the effect of airline operations on airports. Topics include demand prediction, determination of airfield capacity, and estimation of levels of congestion; terminal design; the role of airports in the aviation and transportation system; access problems; optimal configuration of air transport networks and implications for airport development; and economics, financing, and institutional aspects. Special attention to international practice and developments.

R. de Neufville, A. R. Odoni

IDS.675[J] Transportation: Foundations and Methods

Same subject as 1.200[J], 11.544[J]
Subject meets with 1.041[J], IDS.075[J]
Prereq: (1.010A and (1.00 or 1.000)) or permission of instructor
G (Spring)
3-1-8 units

See description under subject 1.200[J].

C. Wu

IDS.700[J] Applied Probability and Stochastic Models

Same subject as 1.203[J], 15.073[J]
Prereq: 6.3700 or 18.600
G (Fall)
Not offered regularly; consult department
3-0-9 units

See description under subject 15.073[J].

A. Barnett

IDS.730[J] Logistics Systems

Same subject as 1.260[J], 15.770[J], SCM.260[J]
Subject meets with SCM.271
Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Fall)
3-0-9 units

See description under subject SCM.260[J].

A. Acocella, C. Caplice

IDS.735[J] Supply Chain Analytics

Same subject as 1.273[J], 15.762[J]
Prereq: 15.761 or SCM.260[J]
Acad Year 2025-2026: Not offered
Acad Year 2026-2027: G (Spring)
3-0-9 units

See description under subject 15.762[J].

N. Trichakis, S. Willems

IDS.736[J] Supply Chain: Capacity Analytics

Same subject as 1.274[J], 15.763[J]
Prereq: 15.761, 15.778, or SCM.260[J]
G (Spring; second half of term)
Not offered regularly; consult department
2-0-4 units

See description under subject 15.763[J].

N. Trichakis, S. Willems

IDS.865[J] Foundations of AI Ventures (New)

Same subject as MAS.665[J]
Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Fall)
3-0-9 units

See description under subject MAS.665[J]. Enrollment is limited; please see subject website for details.

R. Raskar, P. Agrawal, S. Karaman

IDS.900 Doctoral Seminar in Social and Engineering Systems

Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Fall)
2-0-1 units

Introduces doctoral students to IDSS research areas. Preference to first-year students in SES.

A. Jadbabaie

IDS.910 Leadership Development

Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Fall; partial term)
Not offered regularly; consult department
1-1-1 units

Seminar environment created to develop leadership capabilities, and to take advantage of leadership opportunities. An initial Outward Bound experience builds trust, teamwork and communications. Readings and assignments emphasize the characteristics of desired leadership skills. Global leaders participate in the Leadership Lunch series to share their experiences and recommendations. Discussions explore leadership development. Culminates in a personal leadership plan. Restricted to entering students in the Technology and Policy program or instructor permission.

Staff

IDS.950 Independent Study in Data, Systems, and Society

Prereq: Permission of IDSS Academic Office
G (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
Units arranged [P/D/F]
Can be repeated for credit.

For graduate students in IDSS. Individual study in data, systems, and society. Intended to expose student to expert-level domain material. Supervised by a member of MIT's teaching staff.

Consult IDSS Academic Office

IDS.951 Independent Study in Technology and Policy

Prereq: Permission of TPP Education Office
G (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
Units arranged [P/D/F]
Can be repeated for credit.

For graduate students in TPP. Individual study in technology and policy. Intended to expose student to expert-level domain material. Supervised by a member of MIT's teaching staff.

Consult TPP Education Office

IDS.955 Practical Experience in Data, Systems, and Society

Prereq: None
G (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
Units arranged [P/D/F]
Can be repeated for credit.

For IDSS doctoral students participating in off-campus practical experiences in data, systems, and society. Before registering for this subject students must have a training offer from a company or organization, must identify a research advisor, and must receive prior approval from the IDSS Academic Office. Upon completion of the experience students must submit a letter from the company or organization describing the goals accomplished and a substantive final report to the MIT advisor.

Consult IDSS Academic Office

IDS.956 Practical Experience in Technology and Policy

Prereq: None
G (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
Units arranged [P/D/F]

For TPP students participating in off-campus internship experiences in technology and policy. Before registering for this subject, students must have an employment offer from a company or organization, must identify a research advisor, and must receive prior approval from the TPP Education Office. Upon completion of the internship, student must submit a letter from the employer describing the work accomplished, along with a substantive final report from the student approved by the MIT advisor.

Consult TPP Education Office

IDS.957 Practical Experience in Data Analysis

Prereq: None
G (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
Units arranged [P/D/F]
Can be repeated for credit.

For doctoral students in the Interdisciplinary Doctoral Program in Statistics participating in off-campus practical experiences in data analysis in programs where practical experience is accepted. Before registering for this subject students must have a training offer from a company or organization, must identify a research advisor, and must receive prior approval from the IDSS Academic Office. Upon completion of the experience, students must submit a letter from the company or organization describing the goals accomplished and a substantive final report to the MIT advisor discussing how data science and statistical tools were used during their experience and any interesting problems, applications, or results.

E. Milnes

IDS.960 Teaching in Data, Systems, and Society

Prereq: None
G (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
Units arranged [P/D/F]
Can be repeated for credit.

For Teaching Trainees in IDSS. Laboratory, tutorial, or classroom teaching under supervision of a faculty member. Restricted to doctoral students in IDSS who have completed requisite modules and training.

Consult IDSS Academic Office

IDS.961 Teaching in Technology and Policy

Prereq: None
G (Fall, IAP, Spring)
Units arranged [P/D/F]
Can be repeated for credit.

For Teaching Assistants in TPP, in cases where teaching assignment is approved for academic credit. Laboratory, tutorial, or classroom teaching under supervision of a faculty member. Credit for this subject may not be used for any degree granted by IDSS.

Consult TPP Academic Office

IDS.970 Pre-Thesis Research in Data, Systems, and Society

Prereq: None
G (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
Units arranged
Can be repeated for credit.

For doctoral students defining their dissertation topic in IDSS. Covers all activities leading to an acceptable thesis proposal and approved for academic credit by the student's academic program. Includes identifying a research advisor and program planning. Culminates in a thesis proposal, approved by a complete doctoral committee, with working title, abstract, problem summary, significance, literature review, approach, timeline, and references. Academic advisor monitors student progress until a research advisor is identified. Restricted to doctoral students in IDSS.

Consult IDSS Academic Office

IDS.971 Research in Technology and Policy

Prereq: None
G (Fall, Spring, Summer)
Units arranged [P/D/F]
Can be repeated for credit.

For research assistants in TPP when assigned research is not used for thesis, but is approved for academic credit. Credit for this subject may not be used for any degree granted by IDSS.

Consult TPP Academic Office

IDS.C35[J] Interactive Data Visualization and Society

Same subject as 6.C35[J], 11.C35[J], CMS.C35[J]
Subject meets with 6.C85[J], 11.C85[J], CMS.C85[J], IDS.C85[J]
Prereq: None
U (Spring)
3-4-8 units
Credit cannot also be received for 6.8530, 11.154, 11.454

See description under subject 6.C35[J]. Enrollment limited.

C. D'Ignazio, C. Lee, A. Satyanarayan, S. Williams

IDS.C57[J] Optimization Methods

Same subject as 6.C57[J], 15.C57[J]
Subject meets with 6.C571J, 15.C571J
Prereq: 18.C06[J] or permission of instructor
G (Fall)
4-0-8 units

See description under subject 15.C57[J].

A. Jacquillat

IDS.C85[J] Interactive Data Visualization and Society

Same subject as 6.C85[J], 11.C85[J], CMS.C85[J]
Subject meets with 6.C35[J], 11.C35[J], CMS.C35[J], IDS.C35[J]
Prereq: None
G (Spring)
3-1-8 units
Credit cannot also be received for 6.8530, 11.154, 11.454

See description under subject 6.C85[J].

C. D'Ignazio, C. Lee, A. Satyanarayan, S. Williams

IDS.S00 Special Undergraduate Subject in Data, Systems, and Society

Prereq: Permission of instructor
U (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
Not offered regularly; consult department
Units arranged
Can be repeated for credit.

Opportunity for study of topics in Data, Systems, and Society not otherwise included in the curriculum. Offerings initiated by faculty on an ad hoc basis subject to IDSS approval.

Consult IDSS Academic Office

IDS.S01 Special Undergraduate Subject in Data, Systems, and Society

Prereq: Permission of instructor
U (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
Not offered regularly; consult department
Units arranged
Can be repeated for credit.

Opportunity for study of topics in Data, Systems, and Society not otherwise included in the curriculum at MIT. Offerings are initiated by faculty on an ad-hoc basis subject to IDSS approval.

Consult IDSS Academic Office

IDS.S10 Special Undergraduate Subject in Data, Systems, and Society

Prereq: Permission of instructor
U (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
Not offered regularly; consult department
Units arranged [P/D/F]
Can be repeated for credit.

Opportunity for study of topics in Data, Systems, and Society not otherwise included in the curriculum at MIT. Offerings are initiated by faculty on an ad-hoc basis subject to IDSS approval.

Consult IDSS Academic Office

IDS.S11 Special Undergraduate Subject in Data, Systems, and Society

Prereq: None
U (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
Not offered regularly; consult department
Units arranged [P/D/F]
Can be repeated for credit.

Opportunity for study of topics in Data, Systems, and Society not otherwise included in the curriculum. Offerings initiated by faculty on an ad hoc basis subject to IDSS approval.

Consult IDSS Academic Office

IDS.S20 Special Graduate Subject in Data, Systems, and Society

Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
Not offered regularly; consult department
Units arranged
Can be repeated for credit.

Opportunity for study of advanced topics in Data, Systems, and Society not otherwise included in the curriculum at MIT. Offerings are initiated by faculty on an ad-hoc basis subject to IDSS approval.

Consult IDSS Academic Office

IDS.S21 Special Graduate Subject in Data, Systems, and Society

Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Spring)
Units arranged
Can be repeated for credit.

Opportunity for study of advanced topics in Data, Systems, and Society not otherwise included in the curriculum at MIT. Offerings are initiated by faculty on an ad-hoc basis subject to IDSS approval.

Information: Consult IDSS Academic Office

IDS.S22 Special Graduate Subject in Data, Systems, and Society

Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
Not offered regularly; consult department
Units arranged
Can be repeated for credit.

Opportunity for study of advanced topics in Data, Systems, and Society not otherwise included in the curriculum at MIT. Offerings are initiated by faculty on an ad-hoc basis subject to IDSS approval.

Consult IDSS Academic Office

IDS.S23 Special Graduate Subject in Data, Systems, and Society

Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
Not offered regularly; consult department
Units arranged
Can be repeated for credit.

Opportunity for study of advanced topics in Data, Systems, and Society not otherwise included in the curriculum at MIT. Offerings are initiated by faculty on an ad-hoc basis subject to IDSS approval.

Consult IDSS Academic Office

IDS.S24 Special Graduate Subject in Data, Systems, and Society

Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Fall, Spring)
Not offered regularly; consult department
Units arranged
Can be repeated for credit.

Opportunity for study of advanced topics in Data, Systems, and Society not otherwise included in the curriculum at MIT. Offerings are initiated by faculty on an ad-hoc basis subject to IDSS approval.

Consult IDSS Academic Office

IDS.S30 Special Graduate Subject in Data, Systems, and Society

Prereq: None
G (Summer)
Not offered regularly; consult department
Units arranged [P/D/F]
Can be repeated for credit.

Opportunity for study of advanced topics in Data, Systems, and Society not otherwise included in the curriculum. Offerings are initiated by faculty on an ad-hoc basis subject to IDSS approval.

Staff

IDS.S31 Special Graduate Subject in Data, Systems, and Society

Prereq: None
G (Fall, Spring, Summer)
Units arranged [P/D/F]
Can be repeated for credit.

Opportunity for individual or group study of advanced topics in Data, Systems, and Society not otherwise included in the curriculum at MIT. Offerings are initiated by faculty on an ad-hoc basis subject to IDSS approval.

Consult IDSS Academic Office

IDS.S32 Special Graduate Subject in Data, Systems, and Society

Prereq: None
G (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
Not offered regularly; consult department
Units arranged [P/D/F]
Can be repeated for credit.

Consult IDSS Academic Office

IDS.THG Graduate Thesis

Prereq: IDS.970 or permission of instructor
G (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
Units arranged
Can be repeated for credit.

Program of research, leading to the writing of an SM or PhD thesis to be arranged by the student with a member of the IDSS faculty. A minimum of 24 thesis units are required for the SM degree. Doctoral students must first complete IDS.970.

Consult IDSS Academic Office

IDS.UR Undergraduate Research

Prereq: None
U (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
Units arranged [P/D/F]
Can be repeated for credit.

Undergraduate research opportunities in Data, Systems, and Society.

IDSS Academic Office

IDS.URG Undergraduate Research

Prereq: None
U (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
Units arranged
Can be repeated for credit.

Undergraduate research opportunities in Data, Systems, and Society.

Consult IDSS Academic Office