By DSD Staff
April 2020
To make smart business decisions, businesses of all sizes need to be able to properly collect, analyze, and understand their data. By understanding the data they hold, and how to properly analyze that data, businesses can make predictions for the future and make informed decisions necessary for their success. Data scientists help keep organizations moving forward by helping them turn raw data into usable information. Their unique skill set is in demand by employers in every sector. Currently, there is a national shortage of data science professionals. Earning an online master’s in data science can be a great way for those transitioning into the field or those seeking career advancement to help fill this shortage.
Featured Programs
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Syracuse University
Online Master's in Data Science
Syracuse University’s online Master of Science in Applied Data Science program prepares students with advanced data skills for careers in a wide range of industries. Students gain these in-demand skills through collaboration in live online classes and an interdisciplinary curriculum that emphasizes business management, information studies, and data analytics. The program can be completed in 18 months, and GRE scores are not required.
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University of Denver
The online Master of Science in Data Science from the University of Denver Ritchie School makes a career in data science attainable for students of all academic backgrounds. Complete in as little as 18 months. Bachelor’s required.
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UC Berkeley
Master of Information and Data Science
The online Master of Information and Data Science (MIDS) program is preparing the next generation of experts and leaders in the data science field and providing students with a UC Berkeley education without having to relocate. Students graduate with connections to UC Berkeley’s extensive alumni network in the Bay Area and across the world. All international applicants will be required to submit official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores.
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University of Dayton
Online Master of Business Analytics
Prepare for a career in analytics with an online master’s in business analytics from the AACSB-accredited University of Dayton School of Business Administration. Complete in as few as 12 months. GRE/GMAT waivers available.
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Methodology
We created this ranking by looking for programs in data science online on the National Center for Education Statistics and DataScience.Community. We narrowed our focus to only those holding regional accreditation. We believe the best online master’s programs in data science are those taught by expert faculty, offer hands-on training, and have a curriculum with course content that meets the needs of the field. We based our ranking on the following considerations and assigned points accordingly:
Average Tuition
- Less than $10,000/year – 5 Points
- $10,000-$15,000/year – 3 Points
- Over $15,000/year – 1 Point
We understand that finding an affordable master’s program is a key factor for online students. We reviewed each school’s average graduate tuition rates from College Navigator, a website provided by the National Center for Education Statistics that provides information on institutions of higher education around the country. We recognize that your actual tuition rate may vary based on your personal financial circumstances, so it is always a good idea to check with the school to determine your cost. Many universities offer financial aid packages to their students, resulting in a lower tuition rate!
Concentration Areas – 2 Points
We felt that schools offering an area of concentration within their online master’s of data science were worthy of a higher ranking. Concentration areas enable students to specialize in an area of interest or complete coursework required for their specific area of data science. Schools received points for this element only if they offer a concentration within their data science program.
Student to Faculty Ratio
- 12:1 or less= 3 Points
- 13:1 to 17:1= 2 Points
- Greater than 17:1= 1 Point
We felt the student/faculty ratio at each school was important so we awarded more points to schools with a lower ratio. While this may be less important in an online environment, we recognize that not all online learners are independent learners. Knowing that individualized support is readily available can be very important.
Below are the best online master’s in data science based on our criteria. We believe our list highlights the best of the best in quality online master’s in data science programs.
Master of Data Science Online Degree Programs Ranking
#30. University of Virginia – Baltimore, Maryland
Master of Science in Data Science Online
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $16,578/year in-state and $27,770/year out-of-state
Total Points: 3
The top online master’s in data science from the University of Virginia was created to develop data science and analytics professionals through inquiry and collaboration. This 32 credit hour program can be completed in about two years. Courses include:
- Data Mining
- Big Data Analytics
- Ethics of Big Data
Since the curriculum draws from a variety of disciplines, students gain a comprehensive approach to data science. Online students benefit from program success coaches, 24/7 access to a virtual library, and software provided through Virtual Computer.
#29. Johns Hopkins University – Baltimore, Maryland
Master of Science in Data Science Online
Student to Faculty Ratio: 7:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $55,350/year
Total Points: 4
The Whiting School of Engineering at Johns Hopkins University features a top online master’s in data science program that balances theory and application. This rigorous program is taught by practicing engineers and data scientists. Required courses include:
- Data Science
- Data Visualization
- Statistical Models and Regression
An extensive selection of elective course offerings allow students to tailor the program to meet their professional goals.
#28. Boston University – Boston, Massachusetts
Online Master of Science in Applied Data Analytics
Student to Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $54,720/year
Total Points: 4
The top online master’s in applied data analysis from Boston University is a 32 credit hour program that can be completed in 16-24 months. The program is a great fit for mid-career IT professionals or students with a computer science background who want advanced training in analytics. Students will learn a variety of database systems and data mining and data visualization tools including:
- Python
- R
- Amazon AWS
Graduates leave with a portfolio of analytics-focused work from hands-on class projects. All courses are taught by PhD level faculty with industry experience.
#27. University of Southern California – Los Angeles, California
Online Master of Science in Applied Data Science
Student to Faculty Ratio: 9:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $46,272/year
Total Points: 4
The USC Viterbi School of Engineering features a top online master’s in applied data science for students with diverse backgrounds. Students will learn basic data science techniques, write in Python, and work with databases and big data infrastructure. Core courses include:
- Foundations and Applications of Data Mining
- Machine Learning for Data Science
- Foundations of Data Management
Hands-on experiences allow students to “live in the data.” Elective coursework support unique interests and help students prepare themselves for success in a variety of different areas of analytics.
#26. Illinois Institute of Technology – Chicago, Illinois
Master of Data Science Online
Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $29,487/year
Total Points: 4
Illinois Tech features a top online master’s in data science focused on high-level mathematics, statistics, and computer science. Students will learn to think about problems rather than just apply tools. Courses include:
- Data Preparation and Analysis
- Software Project Management
- Machine Learning
Hands-on courses allow students to explore and improve data structure, create and evaluate different models and construct and test hypotheses. New students are admitted for the fall and spring semesters. Graduates are prepared for a variety of careers including:
- data analyst
- marketing analyst
- data mining specialist.
#25. University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, Michigan
Master of Applied Data Science Online
Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $23,890/year in-state and $48,204/year out-of-state
Total Points: 4
The top master’s in applied data science online from the School of Information at the University of Michigan is a flexible and practical program. It’s designed for adult learners. This full-online data science master’s program uses a multidisciplinary approach to help student develop hands-on skills. Courses are roughly four weeks long and cover categories like:
- Formulating problems
- Collecting and processing data
- Analyzing and modeling data
- Presenting and integrating results into action
- Real world applications of data science
Full-time students can complete the program in about 12 months.
#24. Villanova University – Villanova, Pennsylvania
Online Master of Science in Analytics
Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $20,506/year
Total Points: 4
The Villanova School of Business offers a top data science master’s program through their Master of Science in Analytics. The program is taught by experts in the areas of:
- business
- statistics
- analytics
- computer science
Students come from a variety of backgrounds including business, engineering, and computer science. Courses include:
- Data Models and Structured Analysis
- Programming in “R”
- Enterprise Data Management
The program is a great choice for mid-career analysts seeking career advancement or additional professional training.
#23. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign – Champaign, Illinois
Online Master of Computer Science in Data Science
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $14,997/year in-state; $28,404/year out-of-state
Total Points: 4
The Grainger College of Engineering at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign offers an online top master’s in data science. It’s comprised of eight graduate courses in data science. This 32 credit hour program includes courses in areas like:
- Machine Learning
- Data Mining
- Data Visualization
Students are engaged in lectures through Coursera’s open source platform. Students are advised and assessed by UofI faculty and teaching assistants. Assignments, projects, and exams are required to obtain university credit.
#22. Georgia Institute of Technology – Atlanta, Georgia
Online Master of Science in Analytics
Program Website
Concentrations: Analytical Tools, Computational Data Analytics, and Business Analytics
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $14,064/year in-state and $29,140/year out-of-state
Total Points: 4
Georgia Tech Professional Education offers a top data science master’s online through their Master of Science in Analytics. Georgia Tech uses an interdisciplinary approach that allows students to learn from experts in areas like:
- business intelligence
- statistics
- researc
Students can choose from three different program tracks including:
- Analytical Tools Track
- Business Analytics Track
- Computational Data Analytics Track
All students complete a six credit hour practicum to gain real-world experience.
#21. Kent State University – Kent, Ohio
Online Master of Digital Science-Data Science
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $11,766/year in-state; $21,952/year out-of-state
Total Points: 4
The School of Digital Sciences at Kent State University features a top online master’s in data science that can open the door to new career opportunities. The program focuses on data analysis and modeling. Students will learn to process structured, semi-structured, and unstructured data using a variety of statistical and semantic analysis. Concentration courses include:
- Data Architecture
- Semantic Analysis Methods and Technologies
- Knowledge Organization Structures, Systems and Services
#20. University of California Riverside – Riverside, California
Online Master of Science in Engineering in Data Science
Student to Faculty Ratio: 23:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $11,442/year in-state; $26,544/year out-of-state
Total Points: 4
UC Riverside offers a top master’s in data science online with no residency requirements and a flexible schedule. Students can graduate in just 13 months. Courses include:
- Statistical Computing
- Machine Learning
- Data Visualization & Big Data Tools
In addition to completing courses in data science, students will complete 16 credit hours of core engineering classes. Graduates are able to:
- analyze large datasets
- find patterns within the data
- find statistically significant results.
#19. University of California Berkeley – Berkeley, California
Online Master of Information and Data Science
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $11,442/year in-state and $26,544/year out-of-state
Total Points: 4
The online master’s of information and data science from UC Berkeley School of Information features a rigorous, holistic curriculum that prepares students to solve complex problems. Courses include:
- Applied Machine Learning
- Natural Language Processing with Deep Learning
- Behind the Data: Humans and Values
Flexible program options are designed for working professionals and include an accelerated, standard, or decelerated path. Students choosing the accelerated path can earn their degree in as few as 12 months, while those on the decelerated path can finish in less than 32 months.
#18. Bellevue University – Bellevue, Nebraska
Online Master of Science in Data Science
Student to Faculty Ratio: 27:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $10,530/year
Total Points: 4
If you want to help businesses make sense of Big Data, the online master’s in data science from Bellevue University may be a great choice. This 30 credit hour program strikes a unique balance between both programming and statistics. Courses include:
- Predictive Analytics
- Data Mining
- Data Exploration and Analysis
Graduates are able to prepare datasets for analysis, use appropriate data modeling techniques to test hypotheses, and communicate results.
#17. Utica College – Utica, New York
Online Master of Science in Data Science
Concentrations: Social Science Analytics; Business Analytics; Cybersecurity; Financial Crime; General
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $21,480/year
Total Points: 5
The master’s in data science online from Utica College is a 30 credit hour program that can be completed in about two years. Students can choose from a variety of unique specializations, including:
- Social Science Analytics
- Cybersecurity
- Business Analytics
- Financial Crime
There are no on-campus residency requirements, allowing students to balance their education with personal and professional obligations.
#16. DePaul University – Chicago, Illinois
Online Master of Science in Data Science
Specializations: Computational Methods, Health Care, Marketing, Hospitality
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $19,032/year
Total Points: 5
DePaul University is a Catholic university located in Chicago, Illinois, offering a top online master’s in data science. There are no on-campus residency requirements. Students access lectures, whiteboard writings and supplemental materials entirely online. Real-world data is utilized throughout the program to give students experience in analyzing complex data sets. Four concentrations are available including:
- Computational Methods
- Health Care
- Marketing
- Hospitality
New students are accepted each quarter and students can complete the program in just two years. Graduates work for organizations like Allstate, Amazon, and IBM.
#15. Regis University – Denver, Colorado
Master of Science in Data Science Online
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $14,441/year
Total Points: 5
The College of Computer and Information Sciences at Regis University offers a top online master’s in data science that provides students with a balance between theory and application. All courses are offered online, allowing students to continue working while earning their degree. Courses are offered in eight week terms starting six times each year. Courses include:
- Data Engineering
- Data Analytics
- Statistical Methods and Experimental Design
Graduates are well positioned for roles like data architect or data analyst.
#14. University of Wisconsin – Madison, Wisconsin
Master of Science in Data Science Online
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $10,728/year in-state and $24,054/year out-of-state
Total Points: 5
The data science online master’s from the University of Wisconsin is a 12 course program for those planning to enter this exciting field or advance their career. Students will learn to harness the power of big data using state-of-the-art tools and methods. There are no on-campus meetings or requirements. Students can access course content from their laptop, tablet, or smartphone. The interdisciplinary curriculum includes courses in:
- Data Warehousing
- Prescriptive Analytics
- Data Science and Strategic Decision-Making
To be considered for admission, students should have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university with at least a 3.0 GPA. There are no GMAT or GRE scores required for admission.
#13. University of Alabama in Huntsville – Huntsville, Alabama
Online Master of Science in Management Science-Business Analytics (MSMS-BA)
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $10,632/year in-state; $24,430/year out-of-state
Total Points: 5
The University of Alabama in Huntsville offers an online master’s in management science with a focus on business analytics. The program is designed for a variety of students, including recent grads and working professionals. Courses include:
- Data Management and Data Mining
- Decision Modeling
- Modeling and Simulation
A thesis option is available for students whose professional goals require this research rich experience.
New students are admitted during the fall and summer semesters. Full-time students can complete their degree in just 12 months while part-time students can finish in 20 months.
#12. Northwestern University – Evanston, Illinois
Master’s in Data Science Online
Specializations: Analytics and Modeling, Artificial Intelligence, Data Engineering, Analytics Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 6:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $56,067/year
Total Points: 6
The top online master’s in data science from Northwestern University’s School of Professional Studies can help you gain the critical skills needed in our data driven world. Students can choose to specialize in one of four areas including:
- Analytics and Modeling
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Engineering
- Analytics Management
Faculty come from a variety of areas including data science, research, statistics, and computer science.
#11. Southern Methodist University – Dallas, Texas
Online Master of Science in Data Science
Specializations: Machine Learning and Business Analytics
Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $40,896/year
Total Points: 6
Southern Methodist University features a top master’s in data science online for current and aspiring data science professionals. Students benefit from:
- interactive coursework
- group activities
- online face-to-face classes
Specializations are available in machine learning and business analytics. Courses include:
- Natural Language Processing
- Machine Learning
- Business Intelligence
Online students receive dedicated academic support and career services to help them reach their educational and career goals.
#10. Western Governors University – Salt Lake City, Utah
Online Master of Science in Data Analytics
Student to Faculty Ratio: 41:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $7,500/year
Total Points: 6
If you have a knack for finding connections where others see chaos, the top online master’s in data science from Western Governors University may be for you. As students complete their master’s coursework, they also complete the requirements for the SAS Certified Business Analyst Using SAS 9 and the SAS Certified Base Programmer for SAS 9 certifications. Courses include:
- Programming in Python
- R for Data Analysts
- Data Mining and Analytics
Western Governors University offers competency based learning, saving students both time and money. Students familiar with a subject can review the material, take an assessment, and move on to something new. Most students complete the program in less than 18 months.
#9. University of Oklahoma – Norman, Oklahoma
Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics Online
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $6,583/year in-state; $21,242/year out-of-state
Total Points: 6
The Gallogly College of Engineering at The University of Oklahoma features a top online master’s in data science. New students are admitted during the summer, spring, or fall semesters. Full-time students can complete their degree in 14 months. Students can choose from a thesis or non-thesis program option, depending on their professional goals. Courses include:
- Computing Structures
- Database Management Systems
- Algorithm Analysis
Course are offered through a collaboration of the Schools of Computer Science and Industrial and Systems Engineering.
#8. Georgia Southern University – Statesboro, Georgia
Online M.S. in Computer Science – Data Mining and Data Warehousing Concentrations
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $4,977/year in-state; $19,890/year out-of-state
Total Points: 6
The online master’s in computer science from Georgia Southern University offers the only Data Mining and Data Warehousing concentrations in the state of Georgia. This 30 credit hour program starts with a strong foundation in areas like artificial intelligence and databases. Students then get into more specialized courses that focus on applying database and knowledge systems to areas like like software engineering and mobile systems. Graduates are prepared for a variety of careers, including database design and computer programming.
#7. Lewis University – Romeoville, Illinois
Online Master of Science in Data Science
Concentrations: Computational Biology and Bioinformatics; Computer Science
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $14,400/year
Total Points: 7
Lewis University features a cutting edge online master’s in data science with two unique concentration areas. Students can choose to focus on Computer Biology and Bioinformatics or Computer Science. This 33 credit hour program is taught by experts who use real-world examples and practical skills to help students immediately transfer what they learn to the workplace. Graduates are prepared for roles like data scientist and big data solutions provider.
#6. Cabrini University – Radnor, Pennsylvania
Master of Science in Data Science Online
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $5,985/year
Total Points: 7
Cabrini University features a top online master’s in data science for students seeking career advancement. The program is designed for working professionals. The curriculum covers four distinct data science areas, including:
- software and programming
- business and management
- data warehousing
- data visualization
All students complete an internship or capstone experience, gaining hands-on professional skills. Graduates are ready for roles like data mining analyst or database administrator.
#5. Bay Path University – Longmeadow, Massachusetts
Master of Science in Applied Data Science Online
Specializations: Generalist Track and Specialist Track
Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $14,670/year
Total Points: 8
With both generalist and specialist program tracks available, the top online master’s in data science from Bay Path University is designed for students of all backgrounds and interests. Students seeking a well-rounded skill set should consider the generalist track, while students seeking specific data-centric roles should choose the specialist track. The comprehensive curriculum gives students the skills needed to analyze both large and small data sets. Worried about making the transition from classroom to workplace? Students get plenty of hands-on training in popular database tools such as Python, R, and SQL.
#4. CUNY School of Professional Studies – New York, New York
Master of Science in Data Science Online
Student to Faculty Ratio: 7:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $9,930/year in-state; $23,160/year out-of-state
Total Points: 8
CUNY School of Professional Studies offers an online data science master’s that helps students enter or advance in the field of data science. Students complete a professional portfolio showcasing complex projects using R and Python. Core courses include:
- Mathematical Modeling Techniques for Data Analytics
- Machine Learning and Big Data
- Quantitative Finance
All courses are taught by faculty who are committed and engaged technology experts in their field. Faculty design courses using the latest open source tools that are in demand by top employers.
#3. The University of West Florida – Pensacola, Florida
Master of Science in Data Science Online
Specializations: Information Technology, Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, and Earth and Environmental Sciences
Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $7,088/year in-state and $22,166/year out-of-state
Total Points: 8
The University of West Florida features a top master’s in data science online that bridges different disciplines like:
- information technology
- computer science
- health information
There are no on-campus residency requirements. Courses are delivered through video-conferencing tools that enable students to participate in live lectures and interact with students and instructors. Students can choose from four different areas of concentration, all available online.
#2. Dakota State University – Madison, South Dakota
Master of Science in Analytics Online
Concentrations: Business; Healthcare Analytics; Information Systems; General
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $5,939/year in-state; $11,088/year out-of-state
Total Points: 8
Data science professionals have the opportunity to transform the world with analytics. The top online master’s in data science from Dakota State University can give you the edge you need to join this multidisciplinary field and drive this transformation. Students will work with the latest technologies like R, Python, and Kafka. Courses include:
- Big Data Analytics
- Programming for Data Analytics
- Data Warehousing and Data Mining
Courses are delivered through both live and encoded streaming videos, interactive course web boards, and course websites. Both full and part-time program options are available.
#1. Indiana University – Bloomington, Indiana
Online Master’s in Data Science
Concentrations: Precision Health; Cybersecurity; Intelligent Systems Engineering; Data Analytics and Visualization
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $9,501/year in-state; $31,932/year out-of-state
Total Points: 9
Our top choice for an online master’s in data science is offered by Indiana University. This top program is flexible for working professionals who want to advance their career. Courses are taught by the same faculty who teach the on-campus program. Students can select from four different domain areas including:
- Cybersecurity
- Precision health
- Intelligent systems engineering
- Data analytics and visualization
While these domain areas allow students to personalize their degree, Indiana University includes a wide variety of elective coursework for an even greater personalized experience. While there are no on-campus requirements, students can participate in an optional Online Immersion Weekend each spring. This experience allows students to have hands-on experience with new data sets and hear presentations by national experts.
