Best Online Master's in Data Science

Find the best online master's in data science with our list of top-rated schools that offer accredited online programs.
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Updated January 8, 2024

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Sharpen your critical thinking skills and expand your mathematical knowledge with an online master's in data science. This degree can help you qualify for advanced positions or switch roles, launching a new career in a fast-changing field.

In data science online master's programs, you can focus on general data science or emphasize an area of specialization such as statistical analysis, computational linguistics, or information visualization. Once you graduate, you can qualify for jobs such as data engineer, database architect, or statistician, which earn higher-than-average salaries.

Use this guide to learn more about the top online master's in data science programs, benefits of earning your degree online, and career paths you can follow after graduation.

Featured Online Master's in Data Science Degrees

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Top Online Master's in Data Science Degrees

#1 Best Online Master’s in Data Science

Johns Hopkins University

  • Baltimore, MD
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The online master's in data science  at Johns Hopkins University, located in Baltimore, Maryland, prioritizes flexibility. Students prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous program. With a master's degree, graduates can also pursue new careers.

The curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to data science. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in data science or a related field.

Online enrollees complete local internships to gain hands-on experience. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.

Johns Hopkins University at a Glance:

Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 11%

Total Online Master's Programs: 30

Program Name: Master's in data science

Graduate Tuition In State: $55,350

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $55,350

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,350
Out-of-state
$55,350
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$55,350
Out-of-state
$55,350
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
11%
Students Enrolled
27,079
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#2 Best Online Master’s in Data Science

Northwestern University

  • Evanston, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The master's in data science program at Northwestern University, located in Evanston, Illinois, offers a flexible online format. The rigorous curriculum prepares learners for advanced roles in the field. With a master's degree, graduates can also pursue new careers.

The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in data science. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in data science or a related field.

Online enrollees participate in local internships at approved locations. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.

Northwestern University at a Glance:

Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 9%

Total Online Master's Programs: 4

Program Name: Master's in data science

Graduate Tuition In State: $56,067

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $56,067

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$56,232
Out-of-state
$56,232
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$56,067
Out-of-state
$56,067
Retention Rate
98%
Acceptance Rate
9%
Students Enrolled
22,448
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
2% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Best Online Master’s in Data Science

The University of Texas at Austin

  • Austin, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Texas at Austin offers a flexible online master of science in data science. Students prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous program. With a master's degree, graduates can advance their current career or move into new careers.

The curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in data science. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a data science background may need to complete prerequisites.

Online enrollees participate in local internships at approved locations. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.

The University of Texas at Austin at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 32%

Total Online Master's Programs: 5

Program Name: Master of science in data science

Graduate Tuition In State: $11,998

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,966

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,824
Out-of-state
$38,326
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,998
Out-of-state
$22,966
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
32%
Students Enrolled
51,090
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
25% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Best Online Master’s in Data Science

University of Southern California

  • Los Angeles, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

University of Southern California, located in Los Angeles, enrolls students in its online master of science in computer science program. The program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training enrollees for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. Earning a master's degree can also help graduates pursue new careers.

The curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program builds on bachelor's-level computer science experience.

Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.

University of Southern California at a Glance:

Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 11%

Total Online Master's Programs: 55

Program Name: Master of science in computer science

Graduate Tuition In State: $46,272

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $46,272

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$57,256
Out-of-state
$57,256
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$46,272
Out-of-state
$46,272
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
11%
Students Enrolled
48,321
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
17% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#5 Best Online Master’s in Data Science

Tufts University

  • Medford, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Medford, Massachusetts, Tufts University enrolls students in its top-ranked online master's in data science program. The program builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing learners for leadership positions with increased salary potential. A master's degree can also prepare graduates for opportunities in new fields.

The curriculum emphasizes current research in data science. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. Applicants without a background in data science may need to complete prerequisites.

Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.

Tufts University at a Glance:

Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 15%

Total Online Master's Programs: Data not available

Program Name: Master's in data science

Graduate Tuition In State: $52,724

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $52,724

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$57,324
Out-of-state
$57,324
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$52,724
Out-of-state
$52,724
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
15%
Students Enrolled
11,878
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
3% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#6 Best Online Master’s in Data Science

University of Virginia-Main Campus

  • Charlottesville, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students interested in a master's can earn their degree from University of Virginia-Main Campus, located in Charlottesville. The master's in data science strengthens specialized skills, preparing learners for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. Earning a master's degree can also help graduates pursue new careers.

The curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in data science. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants without a degree in data science or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.

Online enrollees work with the program to find local internships. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.

University of Virginia-Main Campus at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 24%

Total Online Master's Programs: 8

Program Name: Master's in data science

Graduate Tuition In State: $16,578

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $27,770

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,970
Out-of-state
$47,833
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,578
Out-of-state
$27,770
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
24%
Students Enrolled
25,012
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
10% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Best Online Master’s in Data Science

The University of West Florida

  • Pensacola, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Graduate students seeking an online data science degree can enroll in the master's program at The University of West Florida, located in Pensacola. The master's in data science program helps students move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. A master's degree can also prepare graduates for opportunities in new fields.

The curriculum emphasizes current research in data science. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. Applicants who majored in data science or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.

Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.

The University of West Florida at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 31%

Total Online Master's Programs: 15

Program Name: Master's in data science

Graduate Tuition In State: $7,088

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,166

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,735
Out-of-state
$16,004
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,088
Out-of-state
$22,166
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
31%
Students Enrolled
12,557
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 Best Online Master’s in Data Science

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

  • Champaign, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign enrolls students in its top-ranked online master of computer science in data science program. The program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. Master's degree-holders can pursue new careers.

The curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in data science or a related field.

Online enrollees work with the program to find local internships. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 59%

Total Online Master's Programs: 30

Program Name: Master of computer science in data science

Graduate Tuition In State: $14,997

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $28,404

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,188
Out-of-state
$33,127
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,997
Out-of-state
$28,404
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
51,605
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Best Online Master’s in Data Science

Boston University

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From its campus in Boston, Massachusetts, Boston University hosts a top-ranked master of science in applied data analytics. The program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. Master's graduates can advance their current career or move into new careers.

The curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in data science or a related field.

Online enrollees work with the program to find local internships. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.

Boston University at a Glance:

Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 19%

Total Online Master's Programs: 24

Program Name: Master of science in applied data analytics

Graduate Tuition In State: $54,720

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $54,720

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,720
Out-of-state
$54,720
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$54,720
Out-of-state
$54,720
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
19%
Students Enrolled
33,720
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#10 Best Online Master’s in Data Science

Colorado State University-Global Campus

  • Aurora, CO
  • 4 years
  • Online

The master of applied statistics at Colorado State University-Global Campus, located in Aurora, offers a flexible online format. Enrollees train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career or advance in their current field.

The curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to data science. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants with prior experience in data science or a related field often meet the admission requirements.

Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.

Colorado State University-Global Campus at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 99%

Total Online Master's Programs: 12

Program Name: Master of applied statistics

Graduate Tuition In State: $9,000

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,000

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,400
Out-of-state
$8,400
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,000
Out-of-state
$9,000
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
99%
Students Enrolled
12,670
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Why Should You Get a Masters in Data Science Online?

As demand grows for data professionals across industries, earning a master's in data science can help you stand out in the job search. This degree equips you with the skills to extract insights from data.

Online data science programs typically offer increased flexibility, allowing you to balance your studies with work or other commitments. They often provide access to the same quality education as on-campus programs. Some online degrees even operate in an accelerated format, allowing you to graduate in twelve or fewer months.

Pros of an Online Master's in Data Science

  • High-Demand Skills: These programs are designed to impart data science skills, which are in high demand globally.
  • Flexibility: Asynchronous coursework can offer increased flexibility with less rigid schedules and no set meeting times for class.
  • Practical Experience: Many online programs incorporate hands-on projects and virtual labs that mirror real-world data science work.

Cons of an Online Master's in Data Science

  • Intensive Workload: The workload for an online program can be challenging, especially for an accelerated program. Laxer course structures mean students need to be self-sufficient.
  • Rapid Changes: The field evolves quickly, demanding continuous learning after graduation to stay current.
  • Limited In-Person Interaction: Online programs may lack some of the face-to-face networking and mentorship opportunities on-campus degrees can provide.

What Jobs Can You Get With a Master's in Data Science?

Professionals with a master's degree in data science can pursue an array of careers in mathematics, statistics, and data science. For example, you can become a data engineer, software analyst, or machine learning engineer. Common jobs for data science master's graduates include:

Database Administrators or Architects

Database architects build data management systems, which database administrators then manage. These professionals often work in computer systems companies or for insurance and finance agencies.

Data Scientist

Using analytic techniques, data scientists mine meaningful information from raw data. They collect, categorize, and analyze information; create data models; present their findings; and make business recommendations. These professionals may work in computer systems, finance, insurance, or scientific research companies. With experience or a master's degree, data scientists can become managers.

Mathematicians and Statisticians

Using math and statistics to solve problems, mathematicians and statisticians collect and analyze data. These professionals design surveys and mathematical models, interpret data, and create data visualizations. They work in industries like government, healthcare, research, and higher education alongside engineers, scientists, and other specialists.

What Can You Expect From an Online Data Science Master's Program?

While enrolled in online master's in data science programs, enrollees learn to use advanced statistical and computational techniques to extract valuable insights and make informed decisions from data. The goal of these programs is to produce professionals who can effectively collect, analyze, interpret, and visualize data to solve complex problems and drive innovation across industries.

Data science master's students take courses in general data science, business analytics, machine learning, and data ethics. They may also complete a capstone project or master's thesis to culminate their degree. Many programs require 30-36 credits, so full-time learners taking 9-12 credits per semester can finish their degree in 12-24 months of study. Some accelerated programs move even faster.

Cost varies based on factors like location, student state residency, and public or private institutional status. Some schools charge less than $10,000 in tuition for an entire program, while others are more expensive.

What Are the Admission Requirements?

Each school establishes its own admission requirements for master's programs. Typically, stipulations include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Applicants with a degree in a field other than mathematics or computer science may need to demonstrate their preparation for the program through their resume or the completion of prerequisite courses. Some schools may also require GRE or GMAT scores, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and application fees.

Which Courses Will You Have to Take?

Data science programs offer a variety of courses in computer science, business, and data. Common classes in this field include:

How Much Does an Online Master's Degree Cost?

For the 2020-21 school year, the average tuition for graduate programs was $19,749, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Tuition ranged from a low of $8,910 among the bottom quartile of public institutions to a high of $42,910 among the top 25% of private schools.

Many other factors affect the price of higher education, including a school's prestige, students' state residency, and whether the program is on campus or online. In addition to tuition, applicants should budget for other educational expenses like required hardware or software, internet access, and student fees.

Financial aid can help cover the cost of a graduate degree. While Pell grants are not available to master's-level learners, scholarships, employer reimbursement, private grants, and veteran assistance can help learners pay for their degree.

Featured Online Master's in Data Science Degrees

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

How Do You Choose an Online Master's in Data Science Degree?

Choosing the best online master's in data science means looking at each program's accessibility, affordability, and utility in the marketplace. Consider these factors:

FAQ About Online Master's in Data Science Programs

Is a master's in data science hard?

Data science students explore technical concepts like advanced statistics, algorithms, and machine learning. Enrollees who struggle with these topics may find a data science degree more difficult than learners who excel in these areas.

Is an online data science master's degree credible?

Credible degrees come from accredited colleges or universities. Your school should hold institutional accreditation from accrediting agencies like the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools or the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Do I need a master's degree to be a data scientist?

A master's degree is just one way professionals can pursue data science jobs. Though many careers in this field only require a bachelor's degree, earning a master's in data science can help graduates qualify for advanced roles or transition into data science from other academic backgrounds.

What is the difference between data science and big data?

Data science is concerned with making sense of data and using it to drive informed decision-making. "Big data" refers to massive volumes of data, which experts in this field often cannot analyze using traditional methods. While data science can certainly work with big data, its focus is on deriving meaningful insights from data rather than solely dealing with large volumes of information.

What is the difference between data science and data analytics?

Data science and data analytics both involve extracting knowledge and insights from data. Data science is a broader, more interdisciplinary field that combines techniques from statistics, computer science, and domain expertise. These tools help professionals extract insights and predictions from complex, often unstructured data.

While data analytics may involve basic statistical analysis, it generally doesn't involve the advanced statistical modeling and machine learning used in data science.


All rankings and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by the TBS Rankings Team.

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