Online Data Science Master’s Degrees

There are more than 30 great universities that offer an online master’s in data science program. Some of these programs offer specializations, such as analytics, artificial intelligence or data engineering. Part-time and full-time enrollment options are available for online data science degrees.

Become a Data Scientist with an Online Data Science Degree

Experience industry-focused education, with our sponsored programs, that could boost your career and make an impact.

Syracuse University

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Master of Science in Applied Data Science

Syracuse University’s online Master of Science in Data Science can be completed in as few as 18 months.

  • Complete in as little as 18 months
  • No GRE scores required to apply

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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Master of Applied Data Science

UNC-Chapel Hill’s online Master of Applied Data Science program gives you a holistic understanding of the data life cycle, preparing you to effectively — and ethically — collect, process, manage and analyze data. Learn to translate your insights into a clear narrative that can be used to drive action. Math and programming skills required.

  • Complete in as few as 16 months full time.
  • No GRE scores required.

University of California, Berkeley

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Master of Information and Data Science

Earn your Master’s in Data Science online from UC Berkeley in as few as 12 months.

  • Complete in as few as 12 months
  • No GRE required

Southern Methodist University

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Master of Science in Data Science

Earn your MS in Data Science at SMU, where you can specialize in Machine Learning or Business Analytics, and complete in as few as 20 months.

  • No GRE required.
  • Complete in as little as 20 months.

University of Texas at Austin

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Master of Data Science

In today’s data-driven world, there’s an increased need for data scientists in every industry. Accelerate your career in this rapidly growing field by completing a rigorous master’s degree program that’s 100% online, affordable, and flexible to fit your life. With an MSDS from the top-ranked University of Texas at Austin, you’ll gain in-demand skills in data visualization, data mining, data analysis, machine learning, and more.

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Choose the Best Online Data Science Master’s For You

In a world of online learning, university name recognition could still be valuable for students and potential future employers. Before considering a data science degree from a well-known university, here are some questions to ask to ensure you are enrolling in a valuable data science program.

How long has the online data science degree been offered? 

As you consider enrolling in a data science program, you might wonder about the longevity and experience of the degree you’re pursuing. While the exact duration for which a data science degree has been offered may vary between institutions, numerous online programs have emerged.

Where can I see a demo of the data science degree and online student experience? 

Certain institutions offer real-time, face-to-face interactions with peers, while others provide asynchronous learning opportunities through discussion posts. Numerous online master’s programs in data science may utilize one or both of these methods, but individual preferences ultimately play a significant role in determining the best fit.

What resources/datasets will I have access to while earning an online data science master’s? 

While pursuing degrees, data science students have access to a variety of resources and datasets through reputable online programs. Another option is seeking opportunities for coding competitions through platforms like Kaggle. Programs may also feature research centers, entrepreneur initiatives, private and public partnerships, laboratories, incubators, and sponsored competitions. Such opportunities allow you to gain hands-on experience and practical knowledge, enhancing your learning experience throughout your degree.

Trying to decide which online master’s in data science is best for you? As a general gauge of quality, you might look at university rankings in quantitative analysis, computer science, and statistics as well as review any awards for online offerings.

List of Online Master’s in Data Science Programs

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Bay Path University

Master of Science in Data Science

Longmeadow, Massachusetts

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Data Science

Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time

Length of Program: 1+ years

Credits: 36

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Recommended 3.0 GPA or above
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Resume or CV
  • Personal statement
Learn more about the Master of Science in Data Science from Bay Path University

Bellevue University

Master of Science in Data Science

Bellevue, Nebraska

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Data Science

Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time

Length of Program: 1+ years

Credits: 30

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Minimum GPA of 2.75
  • Transcripts
Learn more about the Master of Science in Data Science from Bellevue University

Cabrini University

Master of Science in Data Science

Radnor, Pennsylvania

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Data Science

Enrollment Type: Part-Time

Length of Program: 2 years

Credits: 36

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Undergraduate degree
  • 2.75 GPA
  • Undergraduate degree in computer science or related field OR coursework in object-oriented programming & database management systems
  • Previous coursework in Statistics and college-level math required
  • Personal statement
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Resume or CV
Learn more about the Master of Science in Data Science from Cabrini University

Central Connecticut State University

Mathematical Science Department

Master of Science in Data Science

New Britain, Connecticut

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Data Science

Enrollment Type: N/A

Length of Program: N/A

Credits: 31

Concentrations:

Bioinformatics, Text Analytics, Computational Methods, Advanced Methods in Data Science

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree with grade “B” or better in two applied statistics courses
  • 3.0 GPA in post-baccalaureate coursework
  • Essay
  • One letter of recommendation
  • Transcripts
Learn more about the Master of Science in Data Science from Central Connecticut State University

City University of New York (CUNY)

School of Professional Studies

Master of Science in Data Science

New York, New York

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Data Science

Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time

Length of Program: 1+ years

Credits: 30

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • 3.0 GPA or higher
  • Personal statement
  • Resume
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Individual interview may be necessary
  • Completion of prerequisite courses or mandatory challenge exam
Learn more about the Master of Science in Data Science from City University of New York (CUNY)

Clarkson University

Master of Science in Applied Data Science

Beacon, Potsdam, and Schenectady, New York

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Applied Data Science

Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time

Length of Program: 1+ years

Credits: 36

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
  • Unofficial transcripts
  • Official transcripts
  • Resume and CV
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • GRE Scores
  • 3.0 GPA
  • IELTS or TOEFL Scores (for non-native english speakers)
Learn more about the Master of Science in Applied Data Science from Clarkson University

DePaul University

College of Computing and Digital Media

Master of Science in Data Science

Chicago, Illinois

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Data Science

Enrollment Type: N/A

Length of Program: N/A

Credits: 52

Concentrations:

Computational Methods, Health Care, Marketing, Hospitality

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • 3.0 GPA
  • Completed coursework in calculus I and calculus II with a B- average
  • English language proficiency test for international applicants
  • Resume
  • Official transcripts
Learn more about the Master of Science in Data Science from DePaul University

Drexel University

Master of Science in Data Science

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Data Science

Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time

Length of Program: 2+ years

Credits: 45

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Minimum GPA 3.0
  • Official transcripts
  • One letter of recommendation
  • Essay/statement of purpose
  • Resume
Learn more about the Master of Science in Data Science from Drexel University

Elmhurst University

Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics

Elmhurst, Illinois

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics

Enrollment Type: Full-Time

Length of Program: 2 years

Credits: 30

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Official transcripts
  • A basic course in statistics (with a grade of C or better) and prior coursework in programming or equivalent professional experience are prerequisites to the program
  • One year of professional work experience
  • Resume
  • Admission interview with the program director
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose
Learn more about the Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics from Elmhurst University

Harvard University

"Master of Science in Health Data Science "

Cambridge, Massachusetts

Name of Degree: “Master of Science in Health Data Science “

Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time

Length of Program: 1.3+ years

Credits: 60

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Undergraduate degree 
  • Official transcripts from all programs attended
  • TOEFL/IELTS Score for International Students
  • Prerequisite courses
  •  Professional resume or CV
  • Statement of purpose
  • 3.0 GPA
Learn more about the "Master of Science in Health Data Science " from Harvard University

Indiana University

Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering

Master of Science in Data Science

Bloomington, Indiana

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Data Science

Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time

Length of Program: 1+ years

Credits: 30

Concentrations:

Data analytics and visualization, Intelligent systems engineering, Cybersecurity

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • 3.0 GPA
  • Prior mathematical knowledge, object-oriented programming knowledge, communication and critical thinking skills
  • CV or Resume
  • Personal statement
  • Contact information for one professional and/or academic recommendation
Learn more about the Master of Science in Data Science from Indiana University

Johns Hopkins University

Whiting School of Engineering

Master of Science in Data Science

Baltimore, Maryland

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Data Science

Enrollment Type: Part-Time

Length of Program: 1+ years

Credits: 30

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • 3.0 GPA
  • Official transcripts
  • CV or Resume
  • Completion of prerequisites coursework
Learn more about the Master of Science in Data Science from Johns Hopkins University

Lewis University

College Of Aviation, Science And Technology

Master of Science in Data Science

Romeoville, Illinois

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Data Science

Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time

Length of Program: 18 – 24 months

Credits: 33

Concentrations:

Cognitive and Prescriptive Analytics, Data Engineering, Cybersecurity Data Science, Data Science Research, Computational Biology and Bioinformatics

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor degree from an accredited university
  • 3.0 GPA
  • Undergrad coursework in calculus
  • Professional resume
  • Official transcripts
  • Statement of purpose
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • TOEFL score for international students
Learn more about the Master of Science in Data Science from Lewis University

Merrimack College

School of Engineering and School of Business

Master of Science in Data Science

North Andover, Massachusetts

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Data Science

Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time

Length of Program: 1+ years

Credits: 32

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Transcripts
  • Resume
  • Personal statement
  • Two letters of recommendation
Learn more about the Master of Science in Data Science from Merrimack College

New England College

Master of Science in Data Science

Henniker & Manchester, New Hampshire

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Data Science

Enrollment Type: Part-Time

Length of Program: 2 years

Credits: 36

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Undergraduate degree 
  • Official transcripts from all programs attended
  • TOEFL/IELTS Score for International Students
  • Prerequisite courses
  • Professional resume/CV
  • Writing sample
  • 3.0 GPA
  • Three letters of recommendation 
  • GRE Scores
Learn more about the Master of Science in Data Science from New England College

Northcentral University

Master of Science in Data Science

San Diego, California

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Data Science

Enrollment Type: N/A

Length of Program: 1.5+ years

Credits: 30

Concentrations: N/A

Oklahoma State University

Master of Science in Business Analytics and Data Science

Stillwater, Oklahoma

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Business Analytics and Data Science

Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time

Length of Program: 2 years

Credits: 33

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Official transcripts
  • Personal statement
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • GMAT or GRE waivers available
Learn more about the Master of Science in Business Analytics and Data Science from Oklahoma State University

Regis University

Master of Science in Data Science

Denver, Colorado

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Data Science

Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time

Length of Program: 1+ years

Credits: 36

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree or relevant work experience
  • Official transcripts
  • Admissions essay
  • Resume
  • 3.0 GPA
Learn more about the Master of Science in Data Science from Regis University

Rochester Institute of Technology

Master of Science in Data Science

Rochester, New York

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Data Science

Enrollment Type: Full-Time

Length of Program: 2 years

Credits: 30

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Official transcripts
  • Recommended minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Resume
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement
  • College level credit or practical experience in computer programming and statistics
  • GRE scores only required for individuals with degrees from international universities
Learn more about the Master of Science in Data Science from Rochester Institute of Technology

Saint Mary's College

Master of Science in Data Science

Notre Dame, Indiana

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Data Science

Enrollment Type: Full-Time

Length of Program: 2 years

Credits: 36

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree – preferred focus on quantitative subjects
  • Official transcripts
  • Resume
  • One letter of recommendation
  • Personal statement
  • One semester of calculus preferred
  • Familiarity with computer programming, statistics and linear algebra
  • English language test
Learn more about the Master of Science in Data Science from Saint Mary's College

Technological University Dublin

Master of Science in Computing in Applied Data Science & Analytics

Dublin, Ireland

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Computing in Applied Data Science & Analytics

Enrollment Type: Part-Time

Length of Program: 2 years

Credits: 7

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Computing, Science, Engineering, Business with IT, or equivalent qualification
  • Minimum 2.5 GPA
  • Official transcripts
  • Resume or CV
  • Completion of supplemental questions/survey
Learn more about the Master of Science in Computing in Applied Data Science & Analytics from Technological University Dublin

University of California – Santa Barbara

Master of Arts in Statistics – Data Science Track

Santa Barbara, California

Name of Degree: Master of Arts in Statistics – Data Science Track

Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time

Length of Program: N/A

Credits: 42

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Undergraduate degree
  • 3.0 GPA
  • Unofficial/Official transcripts
  • TOEFL/IELTS Score for International Students
  • “B” or better in previously completed statistics courses
Learn more about the Master of Arts in Statistics – Data Science Track from University of California – Santa Barbara

University of California Los Angeles

Samueli School of Engineering

Master of Science in Engineering with Certificate of Specialization in Data Science Engineering

Los Angeles, California

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Engineering with Certificate of Specialization in Data Science Engineering

Enrollment Type: N/A

Length of Program: 24 Months

Credits: 36

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline, mathematics or physics
  • 3.0 GPA in last two years of undergraduate work
  • GRE test scores, waiver available
  • TOEFL/IELTS scores for international students
  • Statement of purpose
  • Recommendations
Learn more about the Master of Science in Engineering with Certificate of Specialization in Data Science Engineering from University of California Los Angeles

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The Grainger College of Engineering Computer Science

Master of Computer Science in Data Science

Champaign County, Illinois

Name of Degree: Master of Computer Science in Data Science

Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time

Length of Program: 1+ years

Credits: 32

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Undergraduate degree
  • 3.0 GPA
  • Unofficial/Official transcripts
  • Resume or CV
  • Statement of Intent
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • TOEFL/IELTS Score for International Students
Learn more about the Master of Computer Science in Data Science from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The University of Kansas

Applied Statistics, Analytics & Data Science Graduate Program

Overland Park, Kansas

Name of Degree: Applied Statistics, Analytics & Data Science Graduate Program

Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time

Length of Program: 1+ years

Credits: 30

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Undergraduate degree
  • Unofficial/Official transcripts
  • Resume or CV
  • Statement of purpose
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • TOEFL/IELTS Score for International Students
  • Prerequisite courses
  • 3.0 GPA
  • No GRE required 
Learn more about the Applied Statistics, Analytics & Data Science Graduate Program from The University of Kansas

University of Missouri

Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics

Columbia, Missouri

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics

Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time

Length of Program: 2 years

Credits: 34

Concentrations:

Geospatial, BioHealth Analytics, High Performance Computing, Human-Centered Science Design, Data Journalism/Strategic Communication

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Unofficial transcripts
  • Resume
  • Personal Statement
Learn more about the Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics from University of Missouri

University of Notre Dame

College of Science

Master of Science in Data Science

Notre Dame, Indiana

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Data Science

Enrollment Type: Full-Time

Length of Program: 2+ years

Credits: 30

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Resume or CV
  • Personal statement
  • TOEFL or IELTS scores if applicable
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Unofficial transcripts
Learn more about the Master of Science in Data Science from University of Notre Dame

University of the Pacific

School of Engineering and Computer Science

Master of Science in Data Science

San Francisco, California

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Data Science

Enrollment Type: Full-Time

Length of Program: 2 years

Credits: 32

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Coursework completed in linear algebra, statistics and programming in a high-level language
  • 2.65 GPA, 3.0 or higher preferred for competitive applicants
  • Official transcripts
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Resume
  • Statement of interest
  • TOEFL or IELTS for international applicants
Learn more about the Master of Science in Data Science from University of the Pacific

University of Virginia

School of Data Science

Master of Science in Data Science

Charlottesville, Virginia

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Data Science

Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time

Length of Program: Less than 1 year

Credits: 32

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s Degree
  • Unofficial transcripts
  • Completion of prerequisite courses
  • Statement of purpose
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Resume or CV
Learn more about the Master of Science in Data Science from University of Virginia

University of Wisconsin

Master of Science in Data Science

Madison, Wisconsin

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Data Science

Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time

Length of Program: 1+ years

Credits: 36

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • 3.0 GPA
  • Completion of prerequisite courses
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Resume or CV
  • Personal statement
Learn more about the Master of Science in Data Science from University of Wisconsin

Wayne State University

College of Engineering

Master of Science in Data Science and Business Analytics

Detroit, Michigan

Name of Degree: Master of Science in Data Science and Business Analytics

Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time

Length of Program: 1+ years

Credits: 30

Concentrations: N/A

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
  • GMAT scores
  • Official transcripts
  • Goal statement
  • Resume or CV
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • IELTS or TOEFL Scores (for non-native english speakers)
  • 3.0 GPA
Learn more about the Master of Science in Data Science and Business Analytics from Wayne State University

What Is an Online Master’s in Data Science?

An online master’s in data science bears the same weight as a campus degree on your résumé. An online degree may offer more flexibility and better work-life balance. It may also reduce the total cost by eliminating a commute to campus. 

Expectations for Earning Your Data Science Degree

Admissions criteria for an online data science master’s and certificates vary, so make sure the program fits your skill level.

Programs can include a blend of core courses and electives. Common elements include multimedia lectures, discussion boards, video conferencing, group project work, and virtual office hours.

Occasionally, some data science online degree programs expect you to come to campus at some point (or points) during your study. Sometimes it’s a handful of weekends, and other times it’s a longer, more concentrated session. Certain schools will have a kick-off and a final reunion week. Be sure to confirm what’s required.

Gain programming skills and interpret data with a master’s in data science from our partner, Syracuse University.

Syracuse University

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Master of Science in Applied Data Science

Syracuse University’s online Master of Science in Data Science can be completed in as few as 18 months.

  • Complete in as little as 18 months
  • No GRE scores required to apply

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What Is the Curriculum for an Online Data Science Master’s?

To get the most value from a data science degree and for students to become data scientists, coursework should be just as demanding as traditional coursework. Typical courses may include database systems, natural language processing, and data analysis

In addition, some master’s programs will have:

  • Deadlines and accountability markers (e.g., class presentations) to help keep you on track.
  • Team-based practicums and online forums to help you build career contacts.
  • Portfolios to impress future employers.

Compare the data science program’s curriculum with the university’s campus offering. If it’s radically different, ask yourself if this is your best option.

What’s the Difference Between Data Science and Computer Science?

Data science and computer science are two distinct disciplines within the realm of technology and computing, both playing roles in today’s data-driven world. Data scientists use mathematics, statistics, and computer science to extract insights from structured and unstructured data. The primary goal for data science professionals is to leverage techniques such as data mining, machine learning, and data visualization to identify patterns, make predictions, and drive decision-making.

In contrast, computer science is a broader discipline that encompasses the study of algorithms, programming languages, software development, computer hardware, and computational theory. Computer science graduates pursue roles as software developers, network administrators, computer systems analysts, and cybersecurity specialists, among others, contributing to the development and maintenance of software and hardware systems that underpin modern society.

Admissions Requirements for Online Data Science Masters

Admissions requirements vary depending on the university, but some common requirements may include:

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Official transcripts
  • Résumé
  • Personal statement
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Real-world experience in data analytics or data science
  • GRE scores
  • Prerequisite courses on topics such as programming, statistics, or math

What Are The Benefits of Enrolling in an Online Data Science Master’s?

Flexibility

There are quite a few benefits of learning data science online, but one of the benefits of earning a data science degree online is flexibility. Most universities have part-time options for students who work full-time and do not require on-campus visits for budding data scientists. Asynchronous programs are completely self-paced, so students are in full control of their schedules and can manage their work-life balance. 

Other programs offer synchronous teaching, which is more hands-on and interactive with students viewing lectures at a scheduled time. Some universities offer online master’s in data science programs year-round, so there’s no need to wait for specific dates to apply and get started.

Faculty

Many data science programs have faculty who have worked as data scientists and teach students the practical skills they need through an experiential learning process. Read up on the data science faculty profiles — these folks should be some of the same people teaching campus programs.

If they’re full-time tenured professors, are they working on cutting-edge research or collaborating with campus partners (e.g., IBM)? Have they won data science awards or research fellowships? It’s valuable to have individuals who are knowledgeable about events and developments outside of academic institutions. If they’re part-time, are they leading data projects in real companies? Do they have experience with start-ups and incubators? Again, you may want data scientists as professors to help you understand today’s landscape.

Networking

Along with the brand name (e.g., MIT), networking with data scientists is part of the reason students opt for university programs over alternatives. That casual chat in the hall or a coffee with your data science program professor may just lead to an AI project or a government contract.

It can be harder to build relationships while earning an online data science master’s, but it’s not impossible. Try looking for programs that incorporate networking opportunities, corporate days, guest speakers, and/or on-campus visits. Think about whether a program in a tech hub (e.g., the Bay Area) or a foreign city (e.g., London) might help you forge new business contacts.

You might also want to examine the class profile to see whom you’ll be meeting.

Unlock Your Data-Driven Future with a Sponsored Online Master’s in Data Science

Syracuse University

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Master of Science in Applied Data Science

Syracuse University’s online Master of Science in Data Science can be completed in as few as 18 months.

  • Complete in as little as 18 months
  • No GRE scores required to apply

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Master’s in Data Science Online Program FAQs

What is the difference between an online data science master’s and a traditional data science program?

An online data science master’s offers the same comprehensive curriculum as a traditional data science program but is delivered digitally. This enables students to access course materials, engage with instructors and peers, and complete assignments from anywhere with an internet connection, providing flexibility for those with full-time jobs or other commitments. Either modality can help students in becoming data scientists.

How do data science degrees differ from computer science degrees?

While both data science and computer science involve programming and data analysis, data scientists focus more on extracting insights from large datasets using statistical methods, machine learning, and data visualization techniques. In contrast, computer science primarily emphasizes software development, algorithms, and computer systems.

Can I specialize in areas like natural language processing during my data science program?

Yes, many online data science master’s offer elective courses or concentration areas in specialized fields such as natural language processing, allowing budding data scientists to tailor their learning experience to their interests and career goals. Natural language processing is a subfield of artificial intelligence that focuses on the interaction between computers and humans through the understanding, interpretation, and generation of human language.

What career opportunities are available for data scientists after completing an online data science master’s?

When you graduate from a data science program, you can pursue various roles as data scientists, data analysts, machine learning engineers, and more across a wide range of industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, and government. Their expertise in database systems, data analysis, and machine learning methods enables them to solve complex problems and drive data-driven decision-making.

Do data science students have access to real-world datasets and projects during their online data science master’s program?

Yes, most data science degrees provide students access to real-world datasets and hands-on projects, enabling them to apply their newly acquired skills and knowledge to practical scenarios. This experience is invaluable in preparing students for success as data science professionals in their future careers.

What is the Difference Between a Data Scientist and Data Analyst?

The primary difference between data scientists and data analysts lies in the scope of their work, the complexity of the problems they tackle, and the techniques they use. While both roles involve working with data and extracting insights, data scientists often deal with more advanced analytics, predictive modeling, and machine learning, whereas data analysts focus on descriptive analytics and reporting. Data scientists delve deeper into data analysis by creating predictive models, employing machine learning algorithms, and working with unstructured or large-scale data.

Empower Your Future With One of Our Online Sponsored Data Science Degrees

Syracuse University

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Master of Science in Applied Data Science

Syracuse University’s online Master of Science in Data Science can be completed in as few as 18 months.

  • Complete in as little as 18 months
  • No GRE scores required to apply

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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Master of Applied Data Science

UNC-Chapel Hill’s online Master of Applied Data Science program gives you a holistic understanding of the data life cycle, preparing you to effectively — and ethically — collect, process, manage and analyze data. Learn to translate your insights into a clear narrative that can be used to drive action. Math and programming skills required.

  • Complete in as few as 16 months full time.
  • No GRE scores required.

University of California, Berkeley

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Master of Information and Data Science

Earn your Master’s in Data Science online from UC Berkeley in as few as 12 months.

  • Complete in as few as 12 months
  • No GRE required

Southern Methodist University

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Master of Science in Data Science

Earn your MS in Data Science at SMU, where you can specialize in Machine Learning or Business Analytics, and complete in as few as 20 months.

  • No GRE required.
  • Complete in as little as 20 months.

University of Texas at Austin

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Master of Data Science

In today’s data-driven world, there’s an increased need for data scientists in every industry. Accelerate your career in this rapidly growing field by completing a rigorous master’s degree program that’s 100% online, affordable, and flexible to fit your life. With an MSDS from the top-ranked University of Texas at Austin, you’ll gain in-demand skills in data visualization, data mining, data analysis, machine learning, and more.

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Last updated April 2023.