Explore 20+ schools with data science master’s programs

Data science is a rapidly-evolving and expanding field, from the explosion of complex chatbots like ChatGPT to more accurate predictive modeling that drives decisions. Businesses will need data science experts: Employment of data scientists is projected to grow 34% between 2024 and 2034 — much faster than the average for all occupations — according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reporting as of May 2024.

If you are looking to pivot towards a new career or dive deeper into your expertise, a master’s degree in data science could be a good fit for you.Universities are responding to demand; the number of master’s degrees awarded in data science rose from 153 in 2020 to 2,376 in 2023 (about a 15× increase), according to the American Statistical Association’s degree data.

Choosing the best master’s in data science program for you

When selecting the best data science degree for you, there are some factors to consider to ensure that the program meets your career aspirations and equips you with the knowledge and expertise needed to succeed.

• Curriculum: Data scientists use various methods, including machine learning, data analysis, and big data management. Try finding a data science graduate program that provides comprehensive coverage of these topics.
• Faculty and staff: Learning from experts in the data science field can support your data science education through mentorships, guidance, and the applicability of the curriculum.
• Flexibility: Data science degree programs may be offered full-time, part-time, online, and on-campus. With these learning opportunities, be sure your ideal program has options best suited for your goals.
• Real-world capstone project: Many master’s in data science programs have a real-world application project at the conclusion of your degree, allowing for opportunities to apply learned skills to real problems.

The programs below include some of the following components:

• Machine learning courses
• Databases courses
• Capstone requirements
• Student organization or association for data science students
• Career resources for data science students
• Programs offering related coursework

Sort programs by:

• No GRE required
• Project-based curriculum
• On-the-go accessibility
• Machine learning coursework

Questions to consider in choosing the best data science program for you

Can you work a data science degree into your schedule?

Although plenty of universities offer a blend of evening, weekend, and online classes, some of the programs mentioned here still require you to be present on-campus to complete your data science master’s degree. There are many hybrid and online master’s in data science programs to consider.

Are there internships or real-world practicums available for data science students?

Having field experience can be a valuable investment for your career. Look for data science programs that connect you to different industries and offer a variety of mentorship opportunities and numerous networking events.

Will a data science degree help to start my career?

When considering a data science degree program, it's important to evaluate its effectiveness in preparing students for the job market. You could contact the university’s data science program about the percentage of graduates who have received employment offers or promotions in data science or related fields.

There are many other degrees related to data science you may want to consider:

• Business analytics master degree programs
• Online master’s in computer engineering
• Online master’s in computer science
• Master’s in cybersecurity online
• Master’s in information systems degrees

Benefits of earning a data science degree

1. Versatility and flexibility: With a data science degree, you can work in a wide range of industries, including healthcare, finance, retail, technology, and government. Data scientists are employed in a variety of sectors, offering you the flexibility to choose a STEM career path that aligns with your interests and passions.
2. Develop valuable skills: A data science degree equips you with a diverse set of skills, including machine learning, data analysis, programming, and statistical modeling.
3. Make an impact: Data scientists play a role in solving complex problems and driving innovation across multiple domains. By earning a data science degree, you can help develop new technologies and help shape the future.
4. Networking opportunities: Pursuing a data science degree provides you with the chance to connect with like-minded professionals, industry experts, and potential employers. These connections can lead to job opportunities, collaborations, and lasting professional relationships.
5. Lifelong learning: New techniques, tools, and technologies emerge regularly. Earning a data science degree can instill a love for lifelong learning and provide you with the foundation to stay ahead of the curve in this dynamic field.

FAQs

How can I find the best data science master's programs?

When searching for the best data science master's programs, you might want to consider factors such as curriculum comprehensiveness, faculty expertise, program reputation, alumni success, and the balance between theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience. These programs provide a strong foundation in data analysis, machine learning, data visualization, and other essential data science skills.

What skills will I learn once I complete a data science degree?

In a data science degree program, you learn skills such as data analysis, data mining, machine learning, statistical modeling, data management, and data ethics. These skills can help prepare you to become a data scientist capable of handling complex data-driven tasks across various industries.

How do data scientists use machine learning in their work?

Data scientists use machine learning to develop algorithms that enable computers to learn from data and improve their performance over time. By employing machine learning methods, data scientists can make predictions, identify patterns, and automate decision-making processes based on vast amounts of data.

Can I specialize in a specific area, such as machine learning, while earning a data science degree?

Yes, many data science graduate programs offer specialization options, such as machine learning, which allow you to focus on a specific area of interest and develop advanced expertise. This can be advantageous in preparing you for specialized roles within the data science field.

What is the role of data mining in a data science degree?

Data mining is a useful aspect of a data science degree, as it involves extracting information from large datasets. Students learn various data mining techniques to discover hidden patterns, correlations, and trends, which can be used to make data-driven decisions and predictions.

How is statistical modeling used in data science?

Statistical modeling is a key component of data science, as it helps data scientists create mathematical representations of real-world processes. By employing statistical modeling techniques, a data scientist can analyze and interpret data, make predictions, and identify relationships between variables.

Is a master’s in data science worth it?

Whether or not a masters degree in data science is worth it will depend on your specific goals and circumstances. A master’s degree can be a significant time and financial commitment, but it is also an opportunity to learn everything from technical skills to the theory and mathematics behind them. They also provide a highly structured, expert-led learning experience.

Some people may find that they would benefit more from a shorter, specialized program such as a short course or boot camp. It is also important to consider your potential earnings and the program's cost. Ultimately, it will require careful and honest consideration of the gaps between what you know and what you don’t, how you learn best, and the resources you can devote to the experience.

Last updated: June 2026.