No business or organization in today's world wants to be in the dark about data. Giant leaps of efficiency, meaning, and insight come from harnessing data.
It's why data science is one of the fastest-growing professions and academic disciplines, and why online master's in data science degrees are increasingly in demand.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects data science jobs to increase by 35% from 2022-2032, the third highest rate in the country. Data scientists earned a median annual salary of $103,500 in May 2022.
Some data scientist roles require a master's degree, according to the BLS. Since data science is still relatively new, employers don't expect everyone to have a data science degree.
But, an online master's in data science offers significant relevance, convenience, and flexibility, both for current data scientists and career changers.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Master's in Data Science Programs
#1 Top Master’s in Data Science Online Degrees
Johns Hopkins University
- Baltimore, MD
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Johns Hopkins, America's first research university, reports that 80% of its undergraduates complete at least one research experience. The school provides over $400,000 in annual start-up funding and $1.6 million in need-based scholarships.
MS in Data Science
Johns Hopkins' master's in data science online program focuses on data engineering principles and statistical models. The curriculum covers ten courses, which must be completed within five years. Only one class may have a C-level grade, while the other nine courses must have a B- or above.
Attendees can transfer up to two courses if they have not applied these credits to other degrees. Enrollees must have earned these transfer credits after the culmination of their undergraduate program. Individuals can apply to waive foundational courses and replace them with other relevant classes.
Applying to John Hopkins
MS in data science applicants need to meet three specific program requirements: three semesters of calculus, one semester of advanced math, and one semester of Python or Java. Qualified individuals must submit official transcripts from past education for admission.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Tuition: $6,470 per course
- Required Credits: 30
- Program Length: 2 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online
Percent Online Enrollment
80%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#2 Top Master’s in Data Science Online Degrees
University of California, Berkeley
- Berkeley, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
UC Berkeley, home to 300 degree programs, counts 35 Nobel prize winners among its alumni. Over 40,000 enrollees attend UC Berkeley, and 26% of first-year students are first-generation postsecondary attendees.
Master of Information and Data Science
UC Berkeley's MIDS degree focuses on data science programming, applied machine learning, and data visualization. The fully online program, designed for working professionals, can be completed on a part-time basis. Attendees can pursue accelerated pacing with the school's approval.
Classes offer mostly asynchronous projects and videos, but students must attend a weekly live meeting. The curriculum includes foundation courses, advanced classes, and a capstone project. The capstone project involves a complete data science project, including technical and analytical components.
Applying to UC Berkeley
UC Berkeley reviews applicants holistically, including previous education, work experience, and programming skills. Each candidate must apply online, pay a $135 fee, and submit transcripts, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a resume.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
- Tuition: $2,850 per credit
- Required Credits: 27
- Program Length: 20 months
- Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous and asynchronous)
Percent Online Enrollment
69%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#3 Top Master’s in Data Science Online Degrees
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Chapel Hill, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
UNC-Chapel Hill, founded in 1795, aims to create the next generation of leaders through research, scholarship, and creativity. The school celebrates its history through a university day, a bell tower climb event, and a tree over two centuries old.
Master of Applied Data Science
UNC-Chapel Hill's MADS degree takes a big-picture view of the data life cycle. The curriculum includes 10 classes, including a team-based capstone project. Students can receive guidance from mentors throughout the project.
The school provides a fully online experience, including contact with academic advisors, tech support, and mentors. Synchronous classes on nights and weekends allow professionals to remain employed while enrolled. Attendees can participate in on-campus experiences to meet classmates and professors.
Applying to UNC-Chapel Hill
The school requires MADS enrollees to have programming, statistics, and linear algebra knowledge through coursework or professional experience. Each candidate must submit transcripts, a resume, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition: $1,142 per credit (in state); $2,158 per credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 30
- Program Length: 16 months
- Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous)
Percent Online Enrollment
29%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Top Master’s in Data Science Online Degrees
University of Southern California
- Los Angeles, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
USC, a private research institution, started in 1880 with its first class of 53 students and 10 teachers. Currently, the school has over 48,000 students and gives back to the community through its Good Neighbors campaign.
Master of Science in Applied Data Science
USC's MS in applied data science program trains students with various backgrounds to become data scientists. Enrollees learn machine learning, data mining, and data management skills through three core courses and five electives. Elective choices include advanced data stores, web technologies, and analysis of algorithms. Learners do not need to complete thesis or capstone projects.
The school recommends that students with limited computer science experience take three beginner courses. The program offers online and on-campus delivery options.
Applying to USC
Eligible candidates should have a bachelor's degree in a field related to engineering, math, or computer science. Applicants must submit an online form, transcripts, resume, personal statement, and 1-2 letters of recommendation.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
- Tuition: $2,424 per credit
- Required Credits: 32
- Program Length: 1.5-3 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online, on campus
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#5 Top Master’s in Data Science Online Degrees
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- Champaign, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
UIUC has one of the largest libraries in the world, with over 24 million items. The school, founded as a land-grant institution, aims to enhance the lives of citizens through learning, discovery, and engagement.
Master of Computer Science in Data Science
UIUC offers a graduate computer science program focused on four areas of computer science: data visualization, machine learning, data mining, and cloud computing. Each subject requires one related course, for which learners must have a B- minimum grade to remain enrolled.
The non-thesis curriculum includes eight core and elective courses. Elective classes include deep learning for healthcare, numerical analysis, and scientific visualization. Attendees can choose data mining or cloud computing capstone projects as electives.
Applying to UIUC
Computer science bachelor's degree-holders and individuals with relevant programming experience can apply to the master's in computer science program. Applicants without relevant experience can take a data structures proficiency exam to demonstrate competency.
The online application requires a $70 fee, transcripts, an academic statement of purpose, a personal statement, and a resume.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $686 per credit
- Required Credits: 32
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
Percent Online Enrollment
84%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Top Master’s in Data Science Online Degrees
University of South Florida
- Tampa, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
USF has campuses across Florida in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota-Manatee. The school received approval for 123 U.S. utility patents in 2020 — the eighth-highest among all U.S. research institutions.
MS in Data Intelligence
USF offers an MS in data intelligence for individuals interested in data synthesis, modeling, and business decision-making skills. The curriculum includes 14 core and 16 specialization credits. Enrollees can pursue specializations in decision intelligence, computational intelligence, and general data intelligence. The general data intelligence track allows learners to customize their curriculum.
Individuals interested in asynchronous classes should pursue the computational intelligence track, as the other paths use synchronous courses. The computational intelligence track focuses on mining data from large databases and how to forecast for businesses.
Applying to USF
Each applicant must hold a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 minimum GPA, have an adequate computing background, and achieve minimum GRE scores. The application requires a $30 fee, transcripts, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a resume.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition: $650 per credit
- Required Credits: 30
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous or synchronous)
Percent Online Enrollment
66%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Top Master’s in Data Science Online Degrees
Georgia Institute of Technology
- Atlanta, GA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Georgia Tech, founded in 1884, has evolved from a niche trade school to a technological institution over the past century. The school's 400-plus acre Atlanta campus hosts 500 student organizations, 50 Greek organizations, and multiple sports teams.
MS in Analytics
Georgia Tech's MS in analytics covers tech topics like artificial intelligence, statistical modeling, and data optimization. Attendees must choose from specialization tracks in analytical tools, business analytics, or computational data analytics. Each track requires two relevant courses.
Students must complete 15 core and 15 elective credits. Individuals with significant experience in a core course topic can request to take an additional elective instead. The program culminates with a 10-15 week practicum, which utilizes real-world data and problems. Students can find their own data sets or collaborate with corporate partners.
Applying to Georgia Tech
The MS in analytics program requires each applicant to hold a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 minimum GPA and have experience or knowledge in statistics, Python, and calculus. Qualified individuals can submit an online application, $105 fee, official transcripts, and statement of purpose for admission.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition: $275 per credit
- Required Credits: 36
- Program Length: 2-3 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
Percent Online Enrollment
62%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Top Master’s in Data Science Online Degrees
Northwestern University
- Evanston, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Northwestern's mission statement revolves around teaching, research, and the growth of its students. The school receives over $1 billion annually in sponsored research awards — an 86% increase compared to 10 years ago.
MS in Data Science
In Northwestern's master's in data science, enrollees study how to make predictions using statistics and machine learning. Students can learn Python, R, and Go, customizing their studies to focus on a preferred language. Attendees can choose from five specializations, including artificial intelligence, data engineering, and technology entrepreneurship.
The curriculum includes core courses, electives, specialization classes, and a final project. The final project can be either a thesis or capstone project. The thesis can be completed alone, while the capstone project requires a team.
Applying to Northwestern
The school considers prospective enrollees holistically, including their academic coursework and relevant work experience. Each applicant must fill out an online form, which requires a $75 fee, a statement of purpose, a resume, letters of recommendation, and official transcripts.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $4,900 per course
- Required Credits: 36
- Program Length: 2-5 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
Percent Online Enrollment
7%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Top Master’s in Data Science Online Degrees
Tufts University
- Medford, MA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Tufts aims to create global active citizens that illuminate the world, per its Latin motto of "Pax et Lux," which means "peace and light." The school, established in 1852, offers a strong alumni network with over 120,000 members.
MS in Data Science
Tufts' master's in data science online program trains students in statistics, machine learning, and data visualization. The Department Of Computer Science and the Department Of Electrical and Computer Engineering jointly manage the program. Graduates can use data analysis and communication skills to solve real-world problems in various work settings.
The curriculum includes 10 courses and a two-credit capstone project. Attendees must complete big data, machine learning, and probabilistic systems analysis courses. The capstone project requires a presentation to faculty and classmates.
Applying to Tufts
The MS program requires each applicant to hold a bachelor's degree in a STEM field and submit an application fee, resume, personal statement, transcripts, and three letters of recommendation.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Tuition: $1,730 per credit
- Required Credits: 32
- Program Length: 12-24 months
- Delivery Format: 100% online
Percent Online Enrollment
47%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#10 Top Master’s in Data Science Online Degrees
University of Virginia
- Charlottesville, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
UVA, founded in 1819 by Thomas Jefferson, seeks to advance knowledge, educate leaders, and inform citizens. The school supports one in every 76 jobs in Virginia and has a $6 billion economic impact.
MS in Data Science
UVA offers an MS in data science with hands-on learning experiences, programming assistance, and networking opportunities. The curriculum comprises eight core courses, two electives, and a capstone project. Elective choices vary by semester. The team-based capstone project involves solving a real-world issue presented by an external organization, with each team completing a report and presentation.
The part-time online degree covers five semesters, with 2-3 courses per semester. Enrollees can complete coursework asynchronously, but there may be live class discussions. The university reports that nearly half of program graduates pivoted careers and earned an average starting salary of $103,000.
Applying to UVA
Bachelor's degree-holders from any major may apply to UVA's MS in data science program. However, applicants must have completed courses in linear algebra, single-variable calculus, statistics, and programming. The application requires a $75 fee, transcripts, a resume, and short answer questions.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition: $1,411 per credit
- Required Credits: 32
- Program Length: 20 months
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous and synchronous)
Percent Online Enrollment
24%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
How We Rank Colleges And Bootcamps
ComputerScience.org ranks computer science degree programs at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. We also rank bootcamps and certificate programs. Our top priority is making sure you find the best possible fit for your education. We use up-to-date national statistics and focus on factors like return on investment, academic quality, and affordability.
Take a closer look at our rankings on our rankings methodology page.
Why Get Your Master's in Data Science Online?
Online data science degrees can offer students flexibility, accessibility, and convenience. Many distance learning programs use online course portals, which allow enrollees to complete assignments on more flexible schedules. This flexibility helps students balance their studies with personal and professional obligations.
Additionally, online students can attend top programs around the country without relocating. Some schools offer in-state tuition to all distance learners, while others charge a discounted rate for online courses.
Earning an online master's in data science can help graduates gain new skills, qualify for more job opportunities, and change careers. A data science bootcamp may work for learners who can digest large amounts of information in short periods of time. However, master's programs give students more time to hone their skills.
A few of the benefits of earning a data science master's degree online include:
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Greater career opportunities: Because so many organizations need help managing and understanding their data, an online data science degree can lead to many career opportunities. Potential jobs include data scientist, computer and information research scientist, and database administrator.
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Make a career change: Graduates can use a master's in data science to advance their careers or change careers completely.
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Develop in-demand skills: Students in master's in data science programs cultivate in-demand skills in SQL, Python, and JavaScript. They also hone project management, quality assurance, communication, and interpersonal skills.
What to Expect From an Online Master's in Data Science Program
An online master's in data science program teaches students to collect, organize, and interpret data to help organizations make informed decisions. They study topics like data analysis, data visualization, programming languages, and data mining.
A typical online master's in data science takes two years of full-time study to complete. Part-time learners may take three or more years to graduate. Costs vary, but private institutions typically charge higher tuition rates than in-state public schools.
Most master's in data science programs include courses on topics like algorithms for data science, statistical methods and data analysis, data visualization, and principles of database systems.
How Is an Online Master's in Data Science Different From an On-Campus Program?
The learning experience is the biggest difference between online and traditional master's in data science programs. Online learning is more flexible and generally cheaper than in-person learning. But it requires more self-discipline, motivation, and organization to stay on track.
The table below contrasts other differences between on-campus and online master's degree programs.
Online vs. On-Campus Master's in Data Science Degrees
|
Online |
On-Campus |
| Price Range |
Online programs may cost as little as $10,000 to over $45,000. Hybrid degrees may have additional program costs, including travel, room, and board. |
On-campus programs typically range from $35,000 - $60,000, not including relocation expenses or commuting costs. |
| Program Length |
Full-time enrollees usually complete online degrees in 12-36 months. Some programs may offer accelerated tracks that let students finish their coursework even more quickly. |
Full-time enrollees usually complete on-campus degrees in 11-24 months. Part-time students may take longer to complete their degree. |
| Scheduling |
Online degrees typically offer synchronous or asynchronous courses. Some programs may include hybrid requirements that bring students to campus. |
Students attend classes in person. To accommodate working professionals, classes may run in the evenings or on weekends. |
| Course Load |
Online learners take 1-3 classes per semester if enrolled full time. Part-time students may take fewer courses per term. |
On-campus learners take 3-5 classes per semester if enrolled full time. Part-time students may take fewer courses per term. |
Source: University of Texas, Northwestern University, University of Connecticut, University of Michigan
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
How Is an Online Master's in Data Science Different From a Bootcamp?
Data science bootcamps are intensive career preparation programs with a different educational experience than data science online degrees.
Bootcamps often cater to students coming from unrelated career fields who want to transition into a position in data science. Because bootcamps usually focus on specific skills — rather than exploring a broader curriculum like degrees do — many enrollees complete these programs in only a few months.
In contrast, online data science master's programs teach students advanced data science skills so they can qualify for upper-level data science positions. Additionally, bootcamp graduates do not earn a degree and are often not able to convert their bootcamp coursework into transfer credit.
Delivery Formats for Online Master's in Data Science Programs
Data science online degrees come in multiple formats, meeting learners' varied needs.
For example, some online data science programs are 100% online, which means students complete their education without ever visiting a college campus.
Hybrid degrees, on the other hand, offer a mixture of distance learning and in-person education. Some hybrid programs require in-person attendance for specific classes or other learning opportunities, so students should research potential programs carefully.
Additionally, online classes come in two formats: Synchronous classes happen in real time, often through web conferencing, requiring students to log on at specific times on certain days. Synchronous classes can benefit students who prefer a set schedule or live interactions with their professors and classmates.
Though asynchronous classes still maintain deadlines for assignments and assessments, they typically use more flexible schedules, which allow students to complete coursework at their convenience. Asynchronous classes may be a good fit for students who have commitments that would conflict with a more rigid weekly course schedule.
Regardless of program type, enrollees in online data science degree programs should expect a rigorous education. Instructors expect learners to engage with course material, study for tests, and submit coursework online in a timely fashion.
Accreditation for Online Master's in Data Science Degrees
As prospective learners explore schools, they should verify that each institution holds accreditation. The institutional accreditation process verifies that a school's academic offerings meet standards of academic rigor and excellence.
Accredited institutions qualify for federal grant funding. This funding can help students offset their college costs. Learn more about paying for a data science degree before you enroll in a program. An online data science master's degree may also hold programmatic accreditation.
Programmatic accreditation applies to departments or programs within an institution and verifies whether the curriculum adequately prepares students for careers in the field. Data science programs can receive programmatic accreditation through organizations like ABET.
How Much Will an Online Master's in Data Science Cost?
The cost of an online master's in data science varies by school. But, the average tuition and fees of a graduate-level math, engineering and computer science degree was $11,079 in 2020, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
Students should research financial aid opportunities like scholarships, grants, and loans to help offset the cost of their degree. Unlike loans, scholarships and grants do not require repayment.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Choosing Your Online Master's in Data Science Program
Our ranking of the top online data science degree programs provides an excellent starting point for research, but prospective students should consider a variety of factors before deciding on a school. Below, we describe some key considerations for prospective data science students.
Accreditation
Accreditation indicates that a school meets standards of educational excellence regarding faculty qualifications, student learning outcomes, and academic rigor.
University Resources
Prospective enrollees should research the availability of student support resources like tutoring, career development services, and research assistance.
Cost
Learners should research the estimated cost of attendance for prospective programs. To help defray these expenses, they should also look into financial aid opportunities, like scholarships, grants, and loans.
Program Length
A typical online master's in data science takes two years of full-time study to complete, but some schools offer accelerated programs that allow students to graduate more quickly.
Networking Opportunities
Many of the best data science online degree programs give students the opportunity to meet with other data science professionals and build connections that can further their careers.
Capstone Projects
Capstone projects give students hands-on experience identifying real-world problems, designing analytics methodologies, and implementing solutions. These projects prepare graduates for issues they may face in their careers.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by Affordable Colleges Online. Page last reviewed February 21, 2024.
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