Master’s in data science: Your guide to data science graduate programs
Are you ready to take your data science career to the next level? Explore advanced learning opportunities, from graduate degrees to boot camps and short courses.
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Whether you’re a prospective student evaluating your options or a recent graduate looking for a new job, our guides have information to help you navigate your next steps.
Browse Master of Science in data science programs and more below.
Sponsored online master’s in data science programs
Master of Information and Data Science
Earn your Master's in Data Science online from UC Berkeley in as few as 12 months.
- No GRE required
- Live online classes: All classes are held weekly on a face-to-face video platform and are kept small, with a low student-to-faculty ratio.
- Renowned faculty: The program is designed by many of the same School of Information (I School) faculty and data science professionals who teach the on-campus programs.
- Multidisciplinary curriculum: Course work is designed with a project-based approach, encouraging the application of tools and methods to solve problems.
- UC Berkeley community: Students gain access to the UC Berkeley I School community, including technical support, academic support, and the university’s vast alumni network.
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.
- Interdisciplinary UNC-Chapel Hill program offered in collaboration between the School of Data -Science and Society and key academic units across campus.
- Complete the program in as few as 16 months full time.
- Learn the latest data science trends, skills and tools being used today, such as advanced programming methods, big data and NoSQL databases, machine learning applications, AI ethics and more.
- Complete a team-based capstone, during which you’ll work with industry, government and community partners and mentors to solve real-world data challenges.
- Competency in programming, statistics and linear algebra is required. UNC-Chapel Hill offers a skills refresher course to help you brush up on these topics.
- Applications are reviewed holistically. No GRE scores required.
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.
- Enter the growing field of data science
- Gain in-demand data analytics skills
- Collaborative, live online classes
- Join a network of diverse data science professionals
- GRE scores are not required
- Earn your master’s in as few as 18 months
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.
- Learn to manage and analyze large amounts of data and communicate strategy to your organization
- Choose a specialization in business analytics or machine learning
- No GRE required
Master of Science in Data Science
The online MS in Data Science program from Hawai‘i Pacific University prepares students to interpret both conventional and unconventional data, strengthen creative problem-solving skills, and apply cutting-edge data analysis expertise to nearly every industry.
- 12 months to complete full time and 24 months part time
- Standardized test scores not required (No GRE/GMAT)
- Prerequisite courses available
- Three start dates per year in January, May, and August
- Students learn key skills such as data analysis, data mining, data visualization, programming, machine learning, and more
Master's in Data Science
With Maryville University’s 100% online MS in data science, you’ll prepare to collect and analyze data, manage teams and create data-driven strategies. Develop coding skills in Python, SQL, R and SAS, and build proficiency in machine learning, data mining, big data and deep learning. Choose from three start dates per year, and graduate in as few as two years. No GMAT/GRE scores required.
- Length of Program: As few as 12 months.
- Concentrations: Computer Science
The program cards/tables featured on this page were last updated in June 2026. For the most current program information, please refer to the official website of the respective school.
What is data science?
Data science is a dynamic field that merges math, computer science, and statistics to analyze and draw insights from datasets. From capturing data to communicating results, data scientists play an important role in helping businesses make strategic decisions and optimize outcomes. The field once encompassed data mining, programming, and data analysis, but today it is expansive and also includes artificial intelligence and machine learning.
In the business world, data science helps corporations understand consumer and market trends. Data science is used to collect and analyze information in other industries, too, with different end goals. For example:
- Gathering census data for public policy professionals to predict election outcomes or identify marginalized groups.
- Analyzing biostatistics and disease rates to inform medical solutions and health recommendations.
- Explore student outcomes and identify early interventions to prevent dropouts.
Master’s in data science programs and related degrees
From machine learning and artificial intelligence to data systems administration and security, there are a variety of focus areas and types of programs you can pursue through higher education. Some of your options include master’s degrees in data science, bachelor’s degrees in data science, boot camps, and short courses.
Master’s in data science
Earning a master’s in data science can help you gain a broad skill set that can be applied to a vast number of tech-related careers, such as data engineering, data architecture, or computer programming.
As a student in this advanced degree program, you can expect to dive into essential concepts in the following areas:
- Applied statistics
- Database systems and data preparation
- Practical machine learning
In an MS in data science program, you will also learn how to use programming languages like Python, R, and SQL.
Master’s in business analytics
Business analytics uses data science to understand and predict consumer, market, and world economic trends. Earning a master’s in business analytics can help you develop the skills needed to transform large amounts of data into actionable business strategy insights.
As a learner in this advanced degree program, you will gain expertise in these subject areas:
- Programming
- Data analytics and management
- Data models and visualization
For business analytics enthusiasts, “data-driven decisions” is the name of the game.
Master’s in information systems
To architect new technologies for companies, you’ll need to be well versed in using information systems and operations. Earning a master’s degree in information systems can help you develop the skills needed to build and manage information systems, evaluate technical approaches and risks, and communicate with and manage people in organizations.
As a learner in this advanced degree program, you will gain expertise in these subject areas:
- Information systems analysis and design
- Business telecommunications
- Managing emerging information technology
Other related master’s degrees in data science
Earning a master’s degree in a related discipline such as computer science, computer engineering, or cybersecurity can prepare you for a career in data science, and is becoming increasingly valuable. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in May 2024, reported a 20% growth in jobs for computer science and 29% growth for information security jobs from 2024 to 2034. The projected growth for both occupations exceeds the projected growth rate for all occupations during the same time period.
Computer science careers
- Computer scientist
- Assistant/adjunct professor of computer science
- Computer systems analyst
- IT project manager
- Director of web development
- Chief technology/information officer
Learn more about an online master’s in computer science to jump-start your career.
Computer engineering careers
- Mechanical engineer
- Electrical engineer
- Computer network architect
- Research and development in physical, engineering, and life sciences
Explore starting your career in computer engineering with a master’s online.
Cybersecurity careers
- Digital forensics analyst
- Information security project manager
- Systems security administrator
- IT security consultant
- Chief information security officer
Discover online Master’s in cybersecurity programs to kick off your career.
There are also hybrid programs for those looking to earn a master’s in data science in a specific industry — like earth sciences or healthcare — that offer more specialized experience.
Health informatics: As the amount of biological data grows, data scientists can help analyze and interpret large amounts of this information.
Geological information systems (GIS): For the field of geology, GIS are a vital tool in unearthing geographic data, analyzing spatial information, and even in editing data in mapping.
Data analysis for public policy: The field of public policy heavily uses data to interpret domestic and global trends in areas such as population, mortality, and educational levels.
Boot camps
Boot camps provide a unique opportunity for individuals to reskill or upskill their current technical knowledge in areas like data science, analytics, coding, UX/UI design, and cybersecurity. Students in boot camps gain real-world experience and quality instruction in a shorter amount of time. Upon completing a boot camp, students can apply their new skills across industries — from retail companies to fintech.
Technology boot camps typically offer:
- A comprehensive curriculum in a short time frame.
- Instruction methods and material for both experienced and inexperienced students.
- In-person and online options — and schedule flexibility for people who have other obligations, like a full-time job.
- An opportunity to build connections in the industry and develop the skills to excel in your career.
If you are interested in upskilling and gaining new skills within a few weeks or months, data science boot camps are a readily available option. It is important to select a boot camp that is offered through accredited universities and meet standards of quality, rigor, and reputation.
Short courses
Online short courses provide individuals with an opportunity to complete non-credit bearing courses or earn a certificate. Short courses that allow you to earn a certificate typically offer sequential and progressive courses, similar to a degree program.
Data science short courses are offered in related subjects, including:
- Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning
- Cybersecurity
- Business analytics
- Data analytics
- Human-computer interaction
- Algorithmic trading
- FinTech
- Marketing analytics
Individual, self-paced courses vary in length, but often take 48–90 hours to complete. Being able to work at your own pace is a benefit for those who need greater flexibility or would like to learn faster or slower than the recommended pace.
Even if you’re not looking to change careers, an online data science course can help expand your foundation of knowledge. Students who complete online data science courses gain valuable new skills to apply in their career.
Choosing the best MS in data science program for you
Online vs. on-campus data science programs
Both online and on-campus data science master’s programs can prepare students for careers in the field.
Today, there are online data science degree programs designed to simulate an in-classroom experience and deliver a rigorous education to you in your home. When searching for the right online program for you, research the overall academic quality and credibility of the program to determine if it will suit your needs, learning style, and career goals.
Full- vs. part-time data science programs
Part-time data science degree programs typically appeal to students with limited time. Many universities accommodate a range of learner needs by offering both full- and part-time degree programs, in-person and as online.
Determine how much time you have to commit to a program and how soon you wish to enter the field. If you are looking to become a data scientist sooner rather than later, pursuing a full-time program means you’ll earn your degree in a shorter amount of time. However, a part-time degree program in data science can open the door for the same types of career opportunities — with a little extra patience.
Information last updated: January 2026
Sponsored schools
University of California, Berkeley
Master of Information and Data Science
Enrollment Type
Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program
As few as 12 months
Credits
27
Admission Requirements
- Official transcripts
- Statement of Purpose
- Two letters of recommendation
- GRE not required
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill • Chapel Hill, NC
Master of Applied Data Science
Enrollment Type
Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program
As few as 16 months
Credits
30
Admission Requirements
- Online application
- Application fee
- Statement of purpose
- Transcripts
- Statement of purpose
- Current résumé
Syracuse University • Syracuse, NY
Master of Science in Applied Data Science
Enrollment Type
Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program
Complete in as few as 18 months
Credits
34
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor's degree
- Two letter of recommendation
- Professional resume
- Statement of purpose
- Official transcripts
Southern Methodist University • Dallas, TX
Master of Science in Data Science
Enrollment Type
Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program
Complete in as few as 20 months
Credits
33.5
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor's degree
- One letter of recommendation
- Professional resume
- Statement of purpose
- Official transcripts
Hawaii Pacific University • Honolulu, HI
Master of Science in Data Science
Enrollment Type
Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program
12-24 months
Credits
36
Admission Requirements
- Online application
- Transcripts: Transcripts must be submitted from all postsecondary institutions. Unofficial transcripts can be submitted for application review. Official transcripts must be submitted by the time you register for your second term.
- Résumé
- Letters of recommendation (optional)
- Essay (optional)
Maryville University • St. Louis, MO
Master's in Data Science
Length of Program
As few as 12 months.
Admission Requirements
- Simplified, no-cost online application
- Official academic transcripts, including undergraduate (and, if applicable, graduate) transcripts showing courses taken and grades received from ANY college or university previously attended
- Résumé
- Essay of 300–500 words describing why you’re interested in the program, why you feel you’re qualified for graduate study and how earning this degree will be applicable to both your career and educational goals
- English proficiency scores (International applicants may be required to submit scores that meet a certain threshold.)