As data continues to drive decisions across industries, earning a master’s degree in data science opens up a world of opportunity. The top programs highlighted provide students with the technical skills, mathematical foundation, and real-world experience necessary to thrive in this rapidly evolving field. 

Whether your interests lie in machine learning, big data analytics, or data visualization, these elite institutions will equip you to become a highly-sought data professional.

Best Data Science Masters Programs

For professionals seeking the flexibility of an online master of science degree, renowned institutions like Stanford University, University of California, Saint Joseph’s University, Texas A&M University, and Boston University are the best options. 

These programs offer a comprehensive curriculum, industry-relevant coursework, and the convenience of remote learning, enabling you to balance your professional studies with other commitments seamlessly. Plus, they set you up for success in getting a well paying tech job that you actually enjoy doing.

School	Enrollment Type	Duration (Months)
Stanford University	Full-time	12-16
University of California, San Diego	Full-time, Part-time	9-12
Saint Joseph’s University	Part-time	12-24
Texas A&M University	Full-time, Part-time	16-24
Boston University, Metropolitan College	Part-time	16-24
University of Virginia	Full-time	16
University of Michigan at Dearborn	Part-time	16-24
University of Iowa	Full-time, Part-time	16-24
University of Florida	Full-time	16-24
University of Minnesota – Twin Cities	Full-time, Part-time	12-24
Bentley University	Part-time	12-16
Seattle University	Full-time, Part-time	12-16
Texas Tech University	Full-time, Part-time	16-24
Worcester Polytechnic Institute	Full-time	12-16
University of Illinois at Chicago	Full-time, Part-time	12-16
Santa Clara University	Part-time	18-24
University of Oklahoma	Full-time, Part-time	12-16
University of Chicago	Full-time	9-12
University of Connecticut	Full-time, Part-time	12-18
Georgia Tech	Full-time	12-16
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute	Full-time	12
Northwestern University	Full-time	18
University of Massachusetts at Amherst	Full-time, Part-time	18-24
Michigan State University	Full-time, Part-time	12
Case Western Reserve University	Full-time	16
Illinois Institute of Technology	Full-time, Part-time	12
North Carolina State University	Full-time, Part-time	16-24
Purdue University	Full-time, Part-time	12-24
Louisiana State University at Baton Rouge	Full-time, Part-time	12-24
University of Texas at Dallas	Full-time, Part-time	12-15
Stevens Institute of Technology	Full-time, Part-time	12-16
University of San Francisco	Part-time	16-24
Carnegie Mellon University	Full-time	12-16
Oklahoma State University	Full-time, Part-time	12-16
George Mason University	Full-time, Part-time	12-16
University of North Carolina at Charlotte	Part-time	12-18
University of Cincinnati	Part-time	12-18
University of Texas at Austin	Full-time	12-18
University of New Hampshire at Durham	Full-time, Part-time	16-24
University of Rochester	Full-time	16-24
Brandeis University	Part-time	12-24
Rutgers University	Full-time, Part-time	12-24
University of Maryland, College Park	Full-time, Part-time	12-16
University of Tennessee at Knoxville	Full-time, Part-time	16-24
Fairfield University	Part-time	16-24
Syracuse University	Full-time	16-24
Indiana University Bloomington	Full-time, Part-time	12-16
Kennesaw State University	Part-time	16-24
University of Alabama in Huntsville	Part-time	16
Southern Methodist University	Full-time, Part-time	16-24

1. Stanford University

Stanford University offers some of the most prestigious educational programs in the country, including Stanford’s residential Master’s of Science in Statistics: Data Science, which is a response to the escalation of Big Data’s influence on the disciplines of engineering and the applied sciences. 

The program is offered through the Department of Statistics and ICME (Institute for Computational and Mathematical Engineering), as they have teamed up to create this ground-breaking computationally informed program to build experts in the field of Big Data.

Graduates of one of the nation’s best data science master’s degree programs are well-positioned to enter the corresponding P.h.D. in Statistics, ICME, or MS&E.

One of the most revered post-secondary institutions in the United States, Stanford University is officially known as Leland Stanford Junior University and colloquially named The Farm. It was established in 1885 by Leland and James Stanford in memory of their only child, Leland Jr., who died in the typhoid fever epidemic at age 15. 

Currently, Stanford is known as the most highly selective undergraduate program in the nation and has often been called the world’s most prestigious university. 

Some of the forces that strengthen the draw to this highly acclaimed school are the proximity to Silicon Valley and their academic contribution. We connected with Jerome L. Rekart, Ph.D., who has over 15 years of experience in educational research, and he agrees that being so close to Silicon Valley is a huge advantage for students:

“Though there are a number of fantastic schools identified [on this list], Stanford University’s proximity to Silicon Valley will provide opportunities to network with tech startups and entrepreneurs, all of whom are in need of data scientists.”

• Degree Name: M.S. in Statistics: Data Science // M.S. in Statistics
• Program Duration: 33 Credit Hours // 45 credits

2. University of California, San Diego

The University of California, San Diego residential programs span many fields and cast a wide net professionally. The Master of Advanced Study Degree in Data Science & Engineering at UCSD is an interdisciplinary course of study that converges database management, software programming, and statistics. 

This program creates efficient and effective ways for a data scientist to identify date-driven trends and create computational models of data. The other key component that the program embeds are the skills to present findings in visual and accessible ways, making the research digestible by larger populations. 

This program is taught by expert UC San Diego faculty, and is offered on an alternating weekend schedule, Fridays and/or Saturdays, for student accessibility. The classes are intimate settings, allowing for deeper collaboration within cohorts, and can be completed in as little as two years. 

The course of study culminates with a capstone design project done in teams. The University of California, San Diego, offers a Master’s of Science in Business Analytics Degree program through the Rady School of Management. This big data master’s program gives students the critical skills for successful engagement in today’s world business strategy, and analytics. 

There are many opportunities in this course of study for diligent experiential learning, which gives students the skills to identify solutions to large-scale business-related issues and generate groundbreaking insights essential to business operations’ success. Coursework also prioritizes effective and ethical communication skill building and team management. 

Graduates receive extensive career support from Career Connections, including personal coaching, programs, and resources. The University of California, San Diego, also known as UC San Diego, is a public research institution situated in the La Jolla neighborhood of San Diego on 2,141 acres beside the Pacific Ocean. 

Originally, they were founded in 1960, beside the Scripps Institute of Oceanography. UC San Diego is the seventh oldest of the ten University of California schools, with an enrollment of about 28,000 undergraduate and 7,000 graduate students. 

One exciting fact about UC San Diego is that, cumulatively, twenty Nobel prizes have been awarded to faculty, alumni, and researchers, as well as eight National Medals of Science, eight MacArthur Fellowships, two Pulitzer prizes, and three Field medals.

• Degree Name: Master of Advanced Study in Data Science and Engineering // M.S. in Business Analytics
• Program Duration:10 courses // 50 units

3. Saint Joseph’s University

Saint Joseph’s University, also known as SJU or St. Joe’s, is a Roman Catholic, Jesuit foundation private university in the Greater Philadelphia Metropolitan area, on the historic Philadelphia Main Line, in Lower Merion Township. 

Founded by the Society of Jesus in 1851, with the original name of Saint Joseph’s College, it is the seventh-largest Jesuit college in the country. 

Over 9200 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students are enrolled through the Erivan K. Haub School of Business, the College of Arts and Sciences, The Program of Professional & Liberal Studies, and the Haub Degree Completion Program.

The Haub School of Business at St. Joe’s offers a well-respected residential Business Intelligence and Analytics Master’s of Science program. It has made a name for itself by creating leaders in Organizational data analysis, strategy, and decision-making. 

Whether you choose a data analytics master’s or bachelor’s degree, you’ll get enrolled in a STEM-designated course with the option of being completed on a full or part-time basis. 

Recently, the program was rated one of seven of the best master’s programs “for the tech inclined,” by inc.com. They have also consistently been ranked by the Princeton Review and the US News and World Report ranking. 

Applicants must submit undergraduate transcripts, a personal statement, a resume, standard letters of recommendation, and GMAT or GRE scores.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Business Intelligence and Analytics
• Program Duration: 30 credits

4. Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University, also known as TAMU or A&M is a public research institution located in College Station, Texas, and is a member of the Texas A&M University System, with an endowment that remains one of the 10 biggest in the country. 

They are designated a land, sea, and space grant university; the only school in Texas to have all three designations. They student population is one of the largest in Texas, and also one of the largest in the country. 

The main campus also makes the record of largest, as it is 5200 acres, making breaking national records for campus size. The main campus is home to the George Bush Presidential Library.

Texas A&M offers what is known as an extremely competitive residential Master’s in Analytics program. They seek only the strongest candidates who apply with competitive GPAs, and/or GMAT or GRE Scores.

They are also looking for candidates with a statistics background who have successfully completed at least one analysis course with an A or B grade. 

They are also seeking students for their program who have relevant work experience in the applied data science field under their belt, with a minimum of three years at a full-time capacity, and with organizational support from an employer that can carry from the workforce back into the graduate program.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Analytics
• Program Duration: 36 credits

5. Boston University, Metropolitan College

Boston University, Metropolitan College, also known as MET, is one of the seven four-year degree granting schools and colleges under the Boston University umbrella. Since 1965, when it was established, they have offered a variety of part-time programming formats, from evening study, to today’s popular online and hybrid programs. 

Of the Metropolitan College campus full-time faculty, 94% have earned doctoral degrees. US News and World Report Ranked This institution as #4 in Best Online Graduate criminal justice programs, #4 in Best Online Graduate Information Technology Programs, and #10 in Best Online Business Programs (excluding MBAs). 

The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) awarded MET the 21st Century Award for Best Practices in Distance Learning. Boston University Metropolitan College offers a residential Master of Science in Computer Science with a concentration in Data Analytics that addresses some of the foundational Big Data questions and innovations of our time. 

Each year, the program starts in September, January, and May. Students will be given the skills and resources to investigate and communicate data processing, statistical analysis, and visualization. 

Graduates of the program will have cutting-edge data analysis and relevant application skills, have the necessary practice applying a variety of visualization techniques to the explanation of real world data sets, and a firm background in web analytics and metrics.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Computer Science with a concentration in Data Analytics
• Program Duration: 40 semester credits

6. University of Virginia

The University of Virginia, often referred to as UVA or Virginia, is a public research University and the flagship of the Commonwealth of Virginia. It was established in 1819 by Thomas Jefferson, the author of the Constitution. 

There is lore attached to student culture at UVA, as they are the home of secret societies and a student-run honor code. They are also the host of several historical foundations. UVA was designated as the first and only collegiate World Heritage Site in 1987, by UNESCO. 

Located in Charlottesville, students come from all 50 states and 148 countries to attend. Among UVA’s exciting graduate offerings is a residential Master’s of Science program in Data Science.

The Data Science Institute at UVA offers one of the most exceptional data analytics programs geared towards lovers of organizing and putting to use large quantities of data, while applying them to real-world scenarios. 

This professional program spans 11 months, starting in July and ending in May, and is therefore as rigorous as it is fast-paced. Core faculty from the Statistics, Computer Science, and Systems and Information Engineering Departments teach the interdisciplinary coursework. 

There are many opportunities for experiential learning, and the conclusion of a capstone substantial data science project brings students into professional environments ripe for real-world skill building.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Data Science
• Program Duration: 32 semester credits

7. University of Michigan at Dearborn

The University of Michigan at Dearborn, also known as UM-Dearborn, or UM-D is a public research institution situated in Dearborn, Michigan. There are three University of Michigan campuses, the other two being Ann Arbor and Flint. 

UM graduates are part of the largest alumni organization of its kind in the world, The University of Michigan Alumni Association. Students, faculty, and researchers collaborate a lot between the three campuses. 

UM-D offers 90 undergraduate academic majors, 28 Master’s programs, and 3 doctoral degree programs. UM-D is a known active member in the Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities.

The University of Michigan-Dearborn’s College of Business offers a well-respected applied data science master online program, designed to give students a holistic skillset to create effective and accountable business plans, by interpreting and applying the outcomes of in-depth data analysis. The Financial Engineer just rated this program #28 in the US. 

This residential graduate program can be taken with full or part-time status, during the fall and winter semesters, with the possibility of coursework in the summer months. Admission is granted on a rolling basis, and students have the opportunity to begin in September or May, with the possibility of a January start date for part-time students.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Business Analytics
• Program Duration: 30 credits

8. University of Iowa

The University of Iowa, also known as UI, or U of I, or even just Iowa, is a flagship public research University, located in Iowa City, Iowa. Established in 1847, it is officially the oldest university in the state, and is currently the second-largest university in the state, the largest being Iowa State University. 

The campus is on an urban 1,700 acres on the banks of the Iowa River. Carnegie Classifications has designated UI as a Doctoral University, with Highest Research Activity. 

An interesting fact is that IU was the founder of the Master of Fine Arts degree, and it is known for being the home of the internationally renown Iowa Writer’s Workshop. They were also the first to recognize an LGBT organization of students on campus.

The University of Iowa offers a residential a Master of Science in Business Analytics. The degree program is driven by the premise that they are offering the most currently in-demand skills, as the fields requiring skilled data interpreters are growing exponentially. 

They offer both a certificate program, as well as a master’s in data science. A GRE is not required for either program. The course of study requires 30 credit hours by way of ten, 12-week classes, with no Friday or weekend in-person requirements. 

The program is to be completed in three years. University of Iowa graduate students are waived from paying the one-time university fee.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Business Analytics
• Program Duration: 30 credits

9. University of Florida

The University of Florida, also known as UF or simply Florida, is a public research institution classified as very high research with public land, sea, and space-grant status. Its breathtaking campus spans 2,000 acres in Gainesville, Florida. 

Measured by student population, UF is the third-largest campus in the state. Established in 1853, Governor Thomas Brown signed a bill that accessed public funding for the health of the university. 

In 2016, US News and World Report ranked UF’s Engineering School 38th nationally. In 2017, they ranked the University of Florida as tied for the ninth-best public university in the US and tied for 42nd overall among all national public and private universities.

University of Florida offers a Master of Science program, with a degree outcome of Master’s of Science in Information Systems, and Operation Management (ISOM). Applied data science prepares students to flourish in Big Data. 

An exciting fact is that 100% of domestic graduates of the program in 2016, were immediately given full-time positions, with salaries beginning at 55-110K annually. The program is STEM accredited, which excites employers. 

Apparently, it is not uncommon to find recruiters from consulting firms and government agencies, as well as industry firms, engaging students in the on-campus building Hough Hall in search of talented new employees.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Information Systems and Operations Management (ISOM)
• Program Duration: 40 credits

10. University of Minnesota – Twin Cities

The University of Minnesota-Twin Cities is often referred to as The University of Minnesota, the U of M, or casually just the U. This university is a public research university located on two campuses, one in Saint Paul and the other Minneapolis. The campuses are a mere 3 miles apart. 

The Saint Paul campus is the oldest and largest within the University of Minnesota system, and has the sixth largest student body in the US, with a total enrollment of 51,147 in 2013-2014. An exciting fact is that the faculty, alumni, and researchers have won 25 Nobel prizes and 3 Pulitzer prizes.

The University of Minnesota offers a Master’s of Science in Data Science, considered a “New Degree for the Modern Digital Age.” This residential graduate program gives students the fundamentals of data analytics, management, communication skills, and strategy. The traditional full-time student will complete the program in two years with 31 credit hours. 

Each student will complete a comprehensive research project, showing that they have grasped concepts related to the use of big data in a professional scenario that can be applied to a myriad of disciplines. The program’s students recently participated in the inaugural Data Science poster fair.

The Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities offers a residential Master’s of Science in Business Analytics. This full-time graduate program pairs the concepts of data analysis with critical business information. 

Offered are foundational business literacy classes with embedded comprehensive data analysis skills, and the necessary skillset development of problem-solving and analytic methodology. The program consists of a 45 credit hour requirement, which can be accomplished in three fast-paced rigorous semesters. 

Students are given hands-on opportunities to work in the context of real-world problem solving, which may include consulting with actual business clients.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Data Science // M.S. in Business Analytics
• Program Duration: 31 credits // 45 credits

11. Bentley University

Bentley University is a private institution with a business focus. It was established in 1917 with a distinct focus on finance and accounting. Bentley is situated nine miles west of Boston, though when it first opened its doors, they were located in the Back Bay neighborhood. 

They offer high-quality Master of Science programs, including 11 distinct business-related Bachelor of Science programs and six Bachelor of Arts degrees. The US News and World Report has ranked Bentley University second in the Top 10 Master’s Universities in the North and Top 50 Undergraduate Business Programs in 2017.

Bentley University’s MCcallum Graduate School of Business offers the highly revered Master’s of Science degree in Business Analytics. This computational data science education program was designed as a training ground for the prospective 2 million data analytics jobs that are and will be created in the coming years. 

This residential graduate program answers the call of the industry by giving students the complex skills to break down Big Data into manageable information by building competencies in statistics, economics, data science, management marketing and finance, and information management. 

There is a full-time and part-time enrollment option. Candidates are chosen based on their whole package, including work experience, learning objectives, GRE scores, and general application.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Business Analytics
• Program Duration: 33 semester hours

12. Seattle University

Seattle University, colloquially known as SU, is located in the First Hill Neighborhood of Seattle, Washington. It is a private Jesuit Catholic School and one of 28 member institutions of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities. SU has almost 7,500 students enrolled in nine schools and colleges. 

The Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education College Rankings 2020 placed SU #2 in the Northwest overall and the top-ranked private university in the Northwest. Seattle University was ranked #7 among the West’s best regional universities, according to the 2018 U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” rankings.

One of the exciting residential programs that Seattle University has to offer is the Albers School of Business and Economics Master’s of Science in Business Analytics. Full-time students can complete the program in just one year. Entrance is offered once each fall.

Prospective students must complete the following prerequisites before starting the program: Statistics, Business Calculus, and Computer Programming. All of which can be waived with proof that a similar class has been taken. 

Graduates will have key competencies in describing complex questions related to business with the use of analytic models and visualization. Students will also learn the ins and outs of business ethics related to decision-making.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Business Analytics
• Program Duration: 45 credits

13. Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University is often called Texas Tech, Tech, or TTU and is a public university, situated in the town of Lubbock Texas. They first became a university on February 10, 1923, and were known as Texas Technological College. 

It is the flagship location for the Texas Tech University system, which is comprised of three additional schools. The Carnegie Foundation has classified TU as The Highest Level of Research, and the fields of research are vast in reach, with topics including epidemiology, grid computing, atmospheric sciences, health analytics, and wind energy. 

They are known for having a gorgeous campus and were awarded the Grand Award for Excellence in Grounds Keeping. They also have one of the best public art collections in the US.

Texas Tech University is home to Rawls College of Business, the entity that hosts the residential Master of Science in Data Science. 

This STEM-designated data science education graduate program is one year in length and consists of 12 classes. Using the foundations of statistics, business, human-centered data science, and technology, students will learn how to interpret big data and use their understandings to analyze information for businesses. 

For applicants that have a minimum of five years of comprehensive and relevant work experience the GRE/ GMAT scores can be waived. There no essay requirement for the Rawls College of Business, but students will still have to complete the general graduate school personal essay.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Data Science
• Program Duration: 36 semester credits

14. Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Worcester Polytechnic Institute, also known as WPI, is a private research University in Worcester, Massachusetts. They have an institutional focus on the instruction and research of the technical arts and applied sciences. WPI was one of the early universities in the US to focus on engineering and technology, and was incepted in 1865. 

Currently, they offer 14 distinct academic departments including 50 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. They are not only known for research, but the way in which it is conducted. Many faculty members work with students on extensive research projects in a myriad of disciplines, including biotechnology and information security.

Worcester Polytechnic Institute offers an exceptional residential graduate program in Data Science. As per WPI’s legacy in experiential learning, students in this cutting-edge program work together with faculty who are experts in the field to analyze data, grow the skills to apply findings to strategy-building efforts, and glean solutions to complex problems. 

The program consists of 33 credit hours and culminates in a Graduate Qualifying Project (GQP), a semester-long project done in teams and in tandem with an industry partner. WPI alumni and students are waived from the GRE requirement.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Data Science
• Program Duration: 33 semester credits

15. University of Illinois at Chicago

The University of Illinois at Chicago, often referred to as UIC, is a state-funded research-intensive university in the category of “high research.” The campus is situated in the Near West Side Community area, just facing the Chicago Loop. 

It is the largest post-secondary institution in the Chicago Metro Area, with enrollment at close-to 29,000 students, enrolled in all 15 UIC Colleges. UIC is known for being the home of the largest medical school in the nation, with over $412 million in research consumption. 

On-campus is the UIC Pavilion, which is where many events occur, including concerts and basketball games. The University of Illinois at Chicago offers the innovative Liautaud Master’s of Science in Business Analytics. 

This residential graduate program is bringing students up to speed in the evolving industries that require Big Data experts. Students of the program will receive an in-depth education in data interpretation and organization, technology that functions to integrate the underpinnings of financial accounting and marketing, and visual interpretation methods. 

This rigorous curriculum is fast-paced, as the 32 required credit hours can be completed in one year with a full-time status. Students will gain hands-on technological skills and work with tools such as Python and SAS.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Business Analytics
• Program Duration: 32 credits

16. Santa Clara University

Santa Clara University, also known as Santa Clara, is a private Jesuit institution located in Santa Clara, California. Established in 1851, it is the oldest operating post-secondary institution in the state and has been in the same location for 166 years. 

Their scenic and historical campus surrounds Mission Santa Clara de Asis, founded in 1776, and Santa Clara has emulated its architectural style. They are known for being a top producer of Fulbright Scholars and have also produced Rhode’s Scholars. They’re decked out in red and white sports teams are called the Broncos.

Santa Clara University is the home of the Leavey School of Business, who parents their well-respected residential Business Analytics program. This Master’s in Science degree program is a response to the ever-growing fields that are demanding skilled data analysts, and what better place for the university to be, but the Silicon Valley. 

Full-time students in the program are on the fast track to completing their degree in only 15 months, and the part-time program, designed by professionals in the field can be completed in as little as 24 months. The coursework includes a 5 quarter STEM-approved practicum, giving students hands-on professional experience.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Business Analytics
• Program Duration: 45 credits

17. University of Oklahoma

The University of Oklahoma, colloquially referred to as UO is public research institution located in Norman, Oklahoma. Established in 1890, prior to the existence of the state. At the time of its inception, it was built beside Indian Territory, for 17 years prior to Oklahoma’s statehood. 

It was calculated in the fall of 2016 that there were over 31,250 students enrolled at the university, primarily at the main Norman campus. They have nearly 3,000 faculty members to accommodate the high level of student enrollment and research activity. 

UO is ranked number 1 among public universities for enrollment of National Merit Scholars.

The University of Oklahoma’s Gallogly College of Engineering offers a residential graduate program in Data Science and Analytics. 

This Master’s of Science degree program is demanding and fast-paced, as students become graduates in as little as 14 months with full-time status. Part-time options of study are also available. The classes are meant to meet the student where they are.

After completing all core courses, students are expected to participate in a comprehensive practicum, as they expect students to employ course competencies in the organizations for which they are placed.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Data Science and Analytics
• Program Duration: 30-33 semester hours

18. University of Chicago

The University of Chicago, also known as U of C, Chicago, or UChicago, is a private research institution founded in 1890. It holds many top 10 places in national and international rankings. Located in the epicenter of bustling Chicago, students have all of the resources that this international city has to offer at arm’s length. 

Not only do they offer extensive undergraduate and graduate programming, they are also known for being the home of many professional schools, including the Pritzker School of Medicine, the Booth School of Business, the Law School, the School of Social Service Administration, and the Harris School of Public Policy Studies.

The University of Chicago’s Graham School for Continuing Liberal and Professional Studies is the home to the residential MSc Program in Analytics. This graduate program takes students to the cutting edge of big data management and analysis. It imparts the skills to apply research to business solutions with analytic data science tools. 

Another critical skill covered in the program is ethical communications and leadership strategies. The program is designed for professionals who already have experience in a variety of fields, including information technology and computer science as well as social or biological sciences. 

This could also be a good fit for recent college graduates who have studied social or physical sciences, and are interested in entering the field of data analytics.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Analytics
• Program Duration: 35 credits

19. University of Connecticut

The University of Connecticut Hartford Campus, also called (UConn Hartford), sits in the downtown region of the state’s capital. They are known for the many academic and hands-on services and educational opportunities, many of which take advantage of all that the city of Hartford has to offer. 

This fairly new location is integrated into the city’s resources, as they hold connections to the public library system, the Wadsworth Atheneum, and the Connecticut Science Center. They have a total of 3,100 students enrolled and 300 faculty and staff. Their close 32 mile proximity to the Storrs campus gives students easy access to more inter-campus resources.

One of the exciting offerings at the University of Connecticut Hartford Campus has to offer is the residential graduate program in Business Analytics and Project Management. This Master’s in Science Program degree program is offered through the School of Business and can be taken on a full-time or part-time basis. 

Data science courses provide students with the necessary skills to analyze data and make data-driven interventions for small businesses and large corporations to solve complex problems and create new opportunities. 

Project Management is a key component of this program, giving data science graduates a broad foundation in the discipline and connecting it to data interpretation and analysis.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Business Analytics and Project Management
• Program Duration: 37 semester credits

20. Georgia Tech

Georgia Tech, as this iconic institution called by those who know it well, was founded in 1885 as a part of plans for the reconstruction of Atlanta after the Civil War. Originally named Georgia School of Technology, most things about Georgia Tech have evolved with the times. 

Since its inception, Georgia Tech has gone from offering only mechanical engineering degrees to finally offering the plethora of degrees and focuses that have made it consistently ranked in the top 10 universities in the country. Along with this, it’s become one of the best value schools for engineering degrees.

Whether it is their exemplary and highly regarded academics or their consistently top-ranked collegiate athletics– the Georgia Tech Ramblin’ Wrecks–people know this institution well and for well-deserved reasons.

The Georgia Tech Master of Science in Analytics will take students through a graduate program that will prepare them for an illustrious career working in Big Data, with a degree designed to be completed in one year, with a total of 36 credit-hours required for each student.

Georgia Tech’s world-class faculty offers residential graduate students three tracks through the program, the Analytical Tools Track, the Business Analytics Track, and the Computational Data Analytics. 

The differences in these three are the areas of focus the student hopes to achieve upon graduation. Students should be selective in deciding between these tracks, as the curriculum is very different.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Analytics
• Program Duration: 30 semester credits

21. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

The Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, also known as RPI, is a private research and space-grant university located in Troy New York, with additional campuses in Hartford and Groton, Connecticut. Founded in 1824 by Stephen Van Rensselaer and Amos Eaton for the explicit purpose of “the application of science to the common purposes of life”. 

RPI is thought to be the best technological university in the English-speaking world. As of 2017, Rensselaer faculty and alumni include 6 members of the National Inventors Hall of Fame, six National Medal of Technology winners, as well as eight Fulbright scholars and one Nobel Prize winner in Physics.

The Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is responding to the fact that all successful businesses and corporations in the current technologically advanced era require highly skilled data analysts to be on hand. 

Students of this well-received program will gain skills to be leaders in the field with foundational statistics, business concepts, data science tools, financial and business analytics, and data management. Students are given the opportunity to select elective courses tailored to their professional goals. 

RPI has the luxury of small class sizes, which allows students to build strong peer relationships and have access to faculty members. One of the highlights of the program is the capstone course, which engages with industry partners. 

There are also many embedded opportunities for mentorship from the active board of executives in the business analytics industry.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Business Analytics
• Program Duration: 36 credits/12 classes

22. Northwestern University

Northwestern University, which is often referred to as NU or simply Northwestern, is a private research institution in Evanston, Illinois, and has additional campuses in neighboring Chicago and Doha, Qatar. They also offer academic programming with facilities in Washington D.C. and San Francisco, CA. 

The school was founded by John Evans, whose vision was to serve the Northwest Territory, which today includes Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, and parts of Michigan. NU is known for being highly competitive, as illustrated by the 9.0% acceptance rate in 2017, having received over 37,000 applications. 

One of the schools for which they are known is the Kellogg School of Management. Northwestern has one outstanding residential Big Data Graduate program in Analytics that is housed in the McCormick School of Engineering. 

Northwestern recognizes the hyper-competitive nature of this field and encourages and supports making industry connections while still learning the skills to become a data scientist.

With a blend of instruction from renowned professors and lecturers from major corporations, students of the Analytics graduate program at Northwestern can trust that the instruction they receive is on the cutting edge of industry practices. 

They will also be able to apply their skills to current industry-inspired projects, solving problems alongside professionals in the field. After all, nothing says “hire me!” like helping solve problems in a company before you even finish school.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Analytics
• Program Duration: 15 months (5 Quarters)

23. University of Massachusetts at Amherst

The University of Massachusetts at Amherst is also known as UMass Amherst, UMass, or simply Massachusetts. It is the flagship campus for the UMass system and is a public land grant and research institution. 

They are the largest public university in the state, with more than 29,000 students enrolled and close to 1,300 faculty members. This research University is ranked by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching as the highest research activity. 

The US News and World Report ranked Amherst in the Top Ten Best College Towns in the United States. Their sports teams are called the Minutemen and Minutewoman, with maroon, black and white colors.

Amherst’s College of Information and Computer Sciences offers a well-respected residential graduate degree program in Data Science. This Master’s In Science degree program can be completed with 30 data science courses many of which fall under the Data Science Course Requirements with a B grade or better. 

Some of the course offerings include Natural Language Processing, Machine Learning, Data Visualizations, and Advanced Algorithms. There are many elective courses for students to take in order to fulfill the elective requirement, and outside courses will be considered though they must be pre-approved. 

In order to graduate, students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 in the 30 credit hours.

• Degree Name: M.S. IN Computer Science with a concentration in Data Science
• Program Duration: 30 credits

24. Michigan State University

Michigan State University, also referred to as MSU, is a public research university situated in East Lansing, Michigan. It was founded in 1855 and became a model for land-grant universities created under the Morrill Act of 1862. 

Originally, MSU was established as Agricultural College of the State of Michigan, one of the first institutions in the country to teach scientific agriculture. They were also one of the first institutions to offer programming in packaging, hospitality business, supply chain management, and communication sciences. 

They have one of the largest numbers of enrolled students, approximately 55,580, from all disciplines and degree denominations. Michigan State University’s Eli Broad College of Business offers a residential graduate program in Business Analytics. This Master’s in Science degree program has the tagline “Building Intelligence in a Data-Driven World”. 

It is a rigorous three-semester course of study designed to train students to be leaders in the growing fields of data management processes and foundations in business analytics. Students are given hands-on project management opportunities, with access to massive data sets and opportunities for application of analysis. 

Students will also have opportunities to build expertise in data mining, applied statistical approaches, how to interpret and communicate data analysis, social network analytics, and marketing technology.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Business Analytics
• Program Duration: 30 credits

25. Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve University, also known as Case Western, Case, and CWRU, is a private institution in Cleveland, Ohio. It was established in 1967 by the Federation of Case Institute of Technology in partnership with Western Reserve University. 

Time Magazine commented on the merger by calling it the creation of “Cleveland’s Big Leaguer University”. The US News and World Report ranked CWRU’s undergraduate program 37th among national universities. 

The Wall Street Journal/ Times Higher Education ranked CWRU as 32nd among all universities and 29th among private universities. An interesting fact is that the institution is associated with 17 Nobel laureates.

Case Western Reserve University’s Weatherhead School of Management offers a residential graduate program in Management and Business Analytics, and it is this highly acclaimed institution’s newest program. 

This Master’s in Science degree program qualifies as a STEM-eligible program, making way for international students in a technical field to apply for a 24-month extension to their optional training program (OTP). 

The course of the 33-credit hour program can be completed in 11 months with full-time status, including elective courses. This program stands out from others as it highlights the highly in-demand professional track of analytic skill mastery, as applied to data scientist, marketing, and interdisciplinary training.

• Degree Name: M.S.M. in Business Analytics
• Program Duration: 33 semester credits

26. Illinois Institute of Technology

Illinois Institute of Technology, or Illinois Tech or IIT, is a private research doctoral institution in Chicago. Its programs include engineering, science, architecture, business, communications, industrial technology, information technology, law, and design. IIT follows the legacy of several 19th-century engineering and professional education institutions in the US. 

What is now known as “the Million Dollar Sermon,” delivered by minister Frank Wakely Gunsaulus in 1890, referred to the fact that advanced education was generally reserved only for the most social elite. 

He said that with one million dollars, we could build a technical school that would offer high-quality technical education to students from all backgrounds in an effort to change industrial society. This sermon was the foreshadowed event of the founding of Illinois Tech.

Illinois Institute of Technology offers a residential graduate program in Data Science, driven by its College of Science. This Master of Science program prepares students for leadership roles as data scientists in the many STEM-related fields involving “Big Data.” 

This is a mathematics, linear algebra, and statistics-centered course of study with high-level data analytics incorporated into the coursework geared at solving complex business-related questions of our times. Students are also given opportunities to practice high-level visualization techniques to communicate data issues with real-world language and scenarios. 

The full-time program is delivered at the Miles Campus, which is only minutes away from the Chicago Loop. Part-time students can complete coursework online.

• Degree Name: Master of Data Science
• Program Duration: 33 credit

27. North Carolina State University

North Carolina State University, also known as NCSU, NC State, or simply State, is a public research institution situated in North Carolina’s Capital city, Raleigh. This institution is a land, sea, and space grant institution.

NC State makes up one of the corners of what is known as “the research triangle,” with the other corners being Duke University, and The University of North Carolina, at Chapel Hill. Established in 1887 as a land-grant college, NC State was founded as the North Carolina College of Agriculture and Mechanical Arts. 

More than 34,000 students are currently enrolled, making it the largest post-secondary institution in the Carolinas. It is no surprise that North Carolina State University’s Institute for Advanced Analytics offers a powerful residential graduate program in Analytics. 

This Master of Science degree-granting program is dedicated to creating leaders in professional leaders in STEM-related fields that require data analytics experts to be successful. Interestingly, this degree program offered at NC State is the first of its kind in the nation. 

The Harvard Business Review named the Institute for Advanced Analytics among the best and one of the few sources of talent and strength in the business analytics field, along with MIT, Stanford, Berkeley, Harvard, and Carnegie Mellon.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Analytics
• Program Duration: 30 credits/10 months

28. Purdue University

Purdue University is touted as Indiana’s Land Grant University. Founded in 1869 by West Lafayette businessman John Purdue, the university has been a touchstone in research and engineering for many international, governmental, and private enterprises for a century and a half. 

They are now known far and wide for their research, their contributions to military and national security research, their athletics teams known as the boilermakers, and their online writing lab (OWL), which was launched in 1994 and is available freely online to all. 

The OWL includes handouts, information on subject areas, resources geared towards students in grades 7-12, and citation formatting help for MLA, APA, and more.

The Master of Science in Business Analytics and Information Management at Purdue’s Krannert School of Management is a full-time, 11-month program beginning in June every year. The program focuses on developing skills in information technologies and analytical techniques. 

Students benefit greatly from the Business Information and Analytics Center within the Krannert school, a data-focused project center that centers the acquisition and analysis of Big Data initiatives. It is these and other bold plans to give students a cutting-edge educational experience that makes Purdue a leader in STEM-based business education and research. 

The residential Masters in Business Analytics and Information Management program takes students with a strong STEM background and gives them the skills to excel in the field of Big Data. 

The Krannert School of Management is one of the best business schools in the nation, public or private, according to U.S. News & World Report, with an incredible job recruitment record for graduates.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Business Analytics and Information Management
• Program Duration: 36 semester credits

29. Louisiana State University at Baton Rouge

Louisiana State University at Baton Rouge, also known as LSU, is technically called Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College. This public, co-educational university was founded in 1853 in Baton Rouge. 

Originally called Louisiana State Seminary of Learning and Military Academy, LSU is now the flagship school in the Louisiana State University system. In 2017, they had over 25,000 undergraduate and over 5,000 graduate students enrolled in their 14 schools and colleges.

Many of their graduate internal institutions have received national recognition for their various disciplines. They have also become known for their exemplary research facilities. The Louisiana State University’s E.J. Ourso College of Business offers a residential graduate program in Analytics.

This Master’s in Science degree program’s parent organization is the Stephenson Department of Entrepreneurship and Information Systems, in partnership with the Department of Experimental Statistics, as well as the Department of Marketing. This multi-faceted course of study imparts knowledge of data-driven statistical methods as a critical contribution to organizational decision-making and effectiveness. 

Business analytics and business intelligence are key competencies that are explored, as well as employing the tools of information technology to solve large-scale problems that impact business operations.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Analytics
• Program Duration: 36 semester credits

30. University of Texas at Dallas

The University of Texas at Dallas, also known as UTD, or UT Dallas, is one of the outstanding institutions that make up the University of Texas System. Their main campus is located in Richardson, Texas, in what is known as the Telecom Corridor, just 18 miles from downtown Dallas. 

Founded in 1961 as the Graduate Resource Center of the Southwest and later named The Southwest Center for Advanced Studies (SCAS), which began as a research arm of Texas Instruments. The Carnegie Foundation Classifies UTD as offering the Highest Level of Research, as well as considering undergraduate admissions “More Selective”.

Notable faculty and members of the alumni have received the Nobel Prize. UT Dallas offers a residential graduate degree in Business Analytics, a Master’s in Science degree-granting course of study. This MS BUAN is a STEM-degree program that can be completed in 18-24 months at the Naveen Jindal School of Management. 

Students that participate in this course of study achieve access to the most cutting-edge “Big Data” education, with core courses that carve out a foundation in successful business analytical techniques and data visualization. 

You are prepared to work as a data science professional on the front lines of Data Science and Marketing. Students have many elective courses, including Cloud Computing, Decisions and Operations Analytics, Data Science, Financial Analytics, Healthcare Analytics, and IT Analytics.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Business Analytics
• Program Duration: 36 semester credits

31. Stevens Institute of Technology

Stevens Institute of Technology, also known as SIT, is a private research university located in Hoboken, New Jersey, with a satellite location in Washington. Established in 1870, it is one of the earliest technological universities in the nation.

It was one of the first colleges in the United States with a single focus on mechanical engineering. Current enrollment consists of more than 5,000 undergraduate and graduate students, which represent 47 of the 50 states and 60 countries including the continents of Asia, Europe, and Latin America. 

SIT is also home to national centers of the US Department of Defense and the US Department of Homeland Security. Stevens Institute of Technology offers a residential Business Intelligence and Analytics Master of Science Program geared towards innovative practices of data analysis and interpretation of large amounts of complex data. 

Students are given the foundational skills to use data to create organizational transformation. The curriculum is said to promote the skills needed for the “big data revolution”. It includes key competencies such as cloud computing, data warehousing, data and text mining, social network analytics, optimization, and risk analytics. 

The program also covers technological platforms like Hadoop and Data Stream Analytics. It was ranked number seven of its kind in the US, in the TFE Times, this second year of which it placed in the top 10!

• Degree Name: Business Intelligence and Analytics
• Program Duration: 36 credits

32. University of San Francisco

The University of San Francisco, also referred to as USF, is a Jesuit Catholic university in the heart of San Francisco. The main campus offers a 55-acre setting, between the Golden Gate Bridge and gorgeous Golden Gate Park. The nickname for this main campus is “The Hilltop”. 

A portion of this main campus is located on one of San Francisco’s major geographical features called Lone Mountain. This renowned institution offers classes at several other locations and actually started as a small one-room schoolhouse on Market Street in 1855 before that area became the city’s downtown. 

They were accredited to start issuing degrees in 1859. The University of San Francisco’s College of Arts and Sciences offers a residential graduate program in Data Science. 

This Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS) degree-granting program can be completed in as little as one year with its fast-paced curriculum. It focuses on computation and mathematical fundamentals, which are critical components in the growing data-driven disciplines. 

About 98% of the MSDS graduates are gainfully employed as a data scientist within three months of graduation, many of whom work for Google, Amazon, Williams-Sonoma, Mozilla, Capital One Labs, and Eventbrite. 

One of the exciting aspects of the program is the practicum requirement giving students valuable work experience, for approximately 15 hours per week, over the course of 9 months, where they tackle big world data science and analytics with companies notable in the San Francisco Bay Area.

• Degree Name: Master of Science in Data Science
• Program Duration: 35 units

33. Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon University, also known as CMU, is a notable research university located in Pittsburgh, PA. Founded in 1900 by founder Andrew Carnegie, it was originally known as the Carnegie Technical School. In 1912, it became known as the Carnegie Institute of Technology, and from that point on, it began granting four-year degrees.

CMU has a 140-acre main campus, just 3 miles from the Pittsburgh’s center. They have seven colleges and independent schools, including the College of Engineering, the College of Fine Arts, Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Mellon College of Science, Tepper School of Business, H John Heinz lll College of Information Sciences and Public Policy.

Offered by Carnegie Mellon University’s Heinz College is a residential Master’s in Data Science/ Business Intelligence and Data Science online. The course of study is comprised of a synthesis of technology and business-related classes framed as a vehicle for a successful career in information systems management. 

This graduate program is rigorous, lasting three semesters. Its on-campus coursework combines the interdependencies of strategy, technology, statistical and computational methods, and management. After 16 months, students will be eligible for graduation and ready to re-enter the workforce as leaders in the field. 

Participants in the program are required to take a project course revolving around one of the program’s specializations, which will prepare data science students to take their ideas from academia to the workforce.

• Degree Name: Masters in Computational Data Science (MCDS) // MISM Business Intelligence & Data Analytics
• Program Duration: 144 eligible units of study // 162 units

33. Oklahoma State University

Oklahoma State University, also referred to as OKstate and OSU, is a land and sun grant institution situated in the town of Stillwater, Oklahoma. Established in 1890, under the Morrill Act, it was originally referred to as the Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical College (Oklahoma A&M). 

It is the flagship institution of the Oklahoma State University system. The freshman class of 2012 was the largest class on record, with 4,298 students. The Carnegie Foundation has classified OSU with High Research Activity. 

The Princeton Review has ranked OSU as one of the 120 Best Western Colleges. Oklahoma State University’s Spears School of Business, offers a data science degree program in Business Analytics. 

This hands-on Master’s of Science program offers experiential learning opportunities for students to grasp data analysis in a multi-platform environment, including access to SAS and data science tools, cloud computing, and other programming languages such as Python and Tableau. This innovative program also emphasizes business development skills and communications.

An exciting fact is that 90% of graduates of programs in 2017 received job offers within three months of completion, with an average annual salary above $80,000 with additional signing bonuses. Also, 100% of data science students received summer paid internships.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Business Analytics
• Program Duration: 37 credits

35. George Mason University

George Mason University is the largest public research institution in the nation. Established as a University of Virginia Branch in 1942, it became independent in 1972. It has four Virginia-based campuses and one located in Songdo, South Korea, within the Incheon Free Economic Zone. 

The university is the home to 500 student groups and 41 sororities and fraternities. The Nobel Memorial Prize in Economics was won by two faculty members. Between 2009-2013, they received a 21% increase in the number of submitted applications and enrolled 4% more degree-seeking students.

George Mason University’s Volgenau School of Engineering offers a residential graduate program in Data Analytics Engineering. This Master’s in Science degree-granting program gives students the conceptual and technical skills for data-driven decision-making. 

Topics that are engaged in the core coursework are statistical and computational methods, mining, statistical models, optimization, data visualization, computer science, and risk analysis. This course of study is perfect for students who are inclined to enter the field of data science as a data science professional. 

Students will also be able to delve into topics that support their individual professional goals, like digital forensics, business analytics, and financial engineering.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Data Analytics Engineering
• Program Duration: 30 semester credits

36. University of North Carolina at Charlotte

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, also known as UNC Charlotte, is a public research university offering 140 undergraduate degree programs, 64 Master’s degree programs, and 23 Doctoral. UNC Charlotte has three distinct campuses: Charlotte Research Institute Campus, Center City Campus, and the main campus located in University City.

UNC Charlotte is the largest postsecondary institution in the Charlotte region, and the third-largest banking center in the nation. It has grown 33.3% in enrollment in the past ten years, translating to the fastest-growing institution in the UNC System.

UNC Charlotte offers a residential graduate program in Data Science and Business Analytics. This interdisciplinary program synthesizes operations research, information sciences, data science, and statistics. 

Students are given the innovative data-driven skillset that is more in demand. They are prepared to work in data-intensive fields that include financial services, retail/ supply chain, and healthcare. 

Classes are taught in the evenings at the Center City Uptown campus, and the program can be completed with full-time or part-time status. A practicum is required for graduation, giving students the opportunity to work first-hand with leaders in the field.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Data Science and Business Analytics
• Program Duration: 33 semester credits

37. University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati, colloquially referred to as Cincinnati or UC, is a public research institution and part of the University of Ohio system. Established in 1819 as Cincinnati College, it is the oldest post-secondary institution in the nation. 

It is the second-largest university in Ohio and one of the 50 largest institutions in the United States, with 44,000 enrolled students. Times Higher Education ranked it among the top 100 universities in North America and the top 250 in the world. 

The US News and World Report followed suit, tanking UC within the top 200 universities in the world. The University of Cincinnati’s Carl H. Lindner College of Business offers data science programs in Business Analytics. 

This Master’s in Science degree program gives students a competitive foundation in predictive, descriptive, and prescriptive analytics, which is likely why it has consistently been ranked among the top 10 Business Analytics Programs in the United States. 

This ranking is illustrated by the fact that so many graduates are in leadership positions at companies such as Google, Disney, Proctor and Gamble, and Facebook. One of the program highlights is that corporate partners present seminars and recruit students almost weekly.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Business Analytics
• Program Duration: 33 credits

38. University of Texas at Austin

The University of Texas at Austin is also known as UT, UT Austin, or simply Texas. It is a public research institution and the flagship of the University of Texas System. Established in 1881, this large campus is located less than one mile from the Texas State Capitol building. 

As Texas would have it, it has the eighth-largest student body in the country, with over 50,000 graduate and undergraduate students enrolled and 24,000 staff and faculty. It is known as a major hotbed for academic research, with expenditures over $550 million for the 2014-2015 school year.

One of University of Texas’ exemplary programs is the residential Master’s in Business Analytics. This graduate offering is STEM certified and embedded with a tremendous amount of support and industry leader recruitment from companies including Walmart and Deloitte Consulting. 

Networking is also a critical component of the program, as many bridges are built with industry leaders, and the career development team helps support students with this trajectory. This multi-faceted program is designed to be completed within a 10-month period. 

This course of study is open to students who have majors in different disciplines. It is highly recommended that applicants complete coursework in Statistics, Probability, and Calculus prior to applying.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Business Analytics
• Program Duration: 36 semester credits

39. University of New Hampshire at Durham

The University of New Hampshire at Durham (UNH) is a public research university in the University of New Hampshire System. Situated in the state’s Seacoast region, Durham’s campus is the parent of six colleges.

Established in 1866 as a land grant college in Hanover, in connection to Dartmouth, In 1893, UNH moved to Durham. UNH is the largest university in the state and is one of only nine in the country that are land, sea, and space grant institutions. 

There are over 15,000 students enrolled between the Durham, Manchester, and Concord Campuses. UNH is a member of the New England Board of Higher Education.

The University of New Hampshire at Durham offers a residential Master’s of Science program in Analytics. This full-time interdisciplinary data science graduate program spans three semesters of coursework: quantitative analysis, critical thinking, reasoning, applications, statistical and computational methods, and analytics. 

Students are given multiple opportunities to engage with industry partners and are given the responsibility to use their skills as applied to real-world analytic inquiries. Students are able to declare specializations such as health, business, or self-declared foci. 

Graduates will be prepared to sit for several SAS qualification exams. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and the programs begin each May.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Analytics
• Program Duration: 36 credits

40. University of Rochester

The University of Rochester is a private, nonsectarian research university located in Rochester, New York. This institution offers six schools with a wide variety of interdisciplinary programs, all of which grant undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and professional degrees. 

U of R is known for many key features, including its Eastman School of Music and the resident Institute of Optics. These happen to be the first educational institutions dedicated to the discipline of optics and established in 1929. 

Rochester also has a laboratory for Laser Energetics and is the host to the world’s most energetic laser. This well-known university also has the Simon Business School and the Goergen Institute.

The Masters of Science in Business Analytics program at Rochester combines foundational business knowledge with analytical expertise. The latter of these, coupled with an economics-based curriculum, gives students the theories and practical frameworks to be a sought-after data engineer or analyst. 

At the Simon School, faculty teach advanced programs like Python, R, and Tableau to help students leverage the Big Data insights that companies need. There’s an entire chart of co-curricular, career building, and social and networking opportunities built right in. 

Students enter the Masters of Science in Business Analytics program with their sights on their future of success, the support to meet those goals, and the tools to expand their vision even further.

The Simon School is located on the University’s River Campus in Rochester, New York. It was renamed after William E. Simon (1927–2000), the 63rd United States Secretary of the Treasury, in 1986. 

What started as a small business school has grown in the last 60 years to offer a Masters of Business Administration and Executive Masters of Business Administration, a Masters of Science degree with seven different programs students can choose from,and an extensive Ph.D. program with a variety of concentrations.

The Goergen Institute for Data Science at the University of Rochester offers a residential graduate program in Data Science with a Master’s of Science accreditation. Students who are full-time can complete the program in as little as two or three semesters. 

The two-semester option is directed towards participants who already have a strong foundation in complex mathematics and computational methods and are equipped to take on an extra demanding course load. 

This includes four classes per semester, to make way for an expedient start to graduation duration. The three-semester model allows students to take three courses per semester. 

Students who are accepted into the program without a strong computer science background will be required to take a Summer Bridging Course and will be notified of such in their acceptance letter.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Data Science//M.S. in Business Analytics
• Program Duration: 32 semester credits//40 credit hours

41. Brandeis University

Brandeis University is a world-renowned private research university located in Waltham, Massachusetts, a mere 9 miles from Boston. Established in 1948 as a non-sectarian co-educational school, with sponsorship from the Jewish Community, Brandeis was built on the site of the former Middlesex University. 

The school was named for Louis Brandeis, the first Jewish Justice of the Supreme Court. The 235-acre suburban campus had a total enrollment of 5,532 students in 2015. They have offerings that include 43 majors and 46 minors, as well as online programs. 

Well over half of the courses have fewer than 20 students in attendance, and all classes enjoy the intimacy of a low student-to-faculty ratio. Brandeis University’s International Business School offers a data science master diploma in Business Analytics. 

The close proximity to Boston gives students the advantage of being in the hub of financial and business innovation. This Master’s of Science degree-granting program is STEM-designated, and students have many opportunities to work on faculty-mentored Data Analytics Consulting Projects. 

A benefit of Brandeis is that all admitted students will be considered for generous scholarship opportunities. Applicants are not expected to have prior work experience in the field. The program spans 11 months, and the faculty are well-respected scholars and leaders in the field.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Business Analytics (MSBA)
• Program Duration: 40 semester hours

42. Rutgers University

Also known as Rutgers, Rutgers University is an American public research university. This happens to be the largest postsecondary institution in the state of New Jersey. Established on November 10, 1766, it was chartered as Queen’s College prior to the American Revolution. 

In 1825, it was renamed Rutgers University after Colonel Henry Rutgers, NYC Landowner, philanthropist, and former military officer. RU is the eighth-oldest college in the United States. Rutgers is the flagship state university of New Jersey. 

They have 9,000 faculty members and 175 academic departments to support the 45,000 undergraduates and 20,000 graduates currently enrolled. Rutgers University’s residential Master of Business and Science degree in Analytics program is a degree for the times.

It brings data-driven decision-making to the table as they develop prospective leaders in the field with the skills to master statistics, mining, programming languages, and machine learning. 

Students are prepared to immediately enter many industries, including business intelligence, computational and statistical methods, predictive modeling, analytics, and data-driven fields such as marketing, finance, biotechnology, and healthcare. 

Students without a background in STEM are encouraged to apply, though it is mandatory that they have at least one year of calculus. Students can learn more about the program through online or in-person information sessions to determine if it is a good fit.

• Degree Name: Master of Business and Science with a concentration in Analytics
• Program Duration: 43 credits

43. University of Maryland, College Park

The University of Maryland, College Park, also known as UM, UMD, UMCP, or simply referred to as College Park, is a public research institution. It is located just four miles from the Northeast border of Washington.

Established in 1856, this institution is the flagship of the University of Maryland system. There were 40,813 students, 10,205 of whom were grad students. The university offers over 100 undergraduate majors and 120 master’s programs. 

UMCP is the largest in the state, including the Washington Metropolitan Area. They are a member of the Association of American Institutions.

The University of Maryland’s residential graduate Master’s in Science degree program in Business Analytics is a professional track that provides students with the critical tools to be leaders in data management. 

In this era of “big data,” it is critical that the new skill set of data science fundamentals like programming languages, data collection, data analysis, statistical methods, computational comprehension, and qualitative/ quantitative decision-making. 

The online program is designed to span a 16-month period on a full-time basis. Classes take place on campus in the afternoons and evenings. All program participants are required to take part in a culminating capstone research project in teams of 4-5 students, with faculty supervision.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Business Analytics
• Program Duration: 30 credits

44. University of Tennessee at Knoxville

The University of Tennessee at Knoxville, also known as UTK or UT, is a public sun and land grant university in Knoxville, Tennessee. Established in 1794, just 2 years before Tennessee became the 16th state in the union. UTK is the flagship campus of the University of Tennessee system. 

Their enrollment is 28,000 students, and represents all 50 states and 100 countries worldwide. The US News and World Report ranked UT 103 among all national universities and 46th among all public universities in 2017. In their archives, they host collections of papers of all three US Presidents from the state of Tennessee.

The Haslam College of Business at the University of Tennessee Knoxville offers a residential Master’s of Science Program in Business Analytics designed to develop students into experts in the fields related to business analytics. 

Students will gain hands-on experience, including a required internship that takes place in the summer, to work directly in real-world scenarios to solve complex business data-related problems. 

They are seeking applicants who have some skills in decoding quantitative knowledge and a desire to contribute to data-driven decision-making. There are many financial aid opportunities for at least one semester. It is also an almost 100% statistic that graduates had a job directly out of the gate.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Business Analytics
• Program Duration: 38 credits

45. Fairfield University

Fairfield University is a private co-educational undergraduate and graduate-level university nestled within New England’s town of Fairfield, Connecticut. Established by the Society of Jesus in 1942, it is still one of 28 additional member institutions of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities. 

Fairfield has distinct institutional objectives, including ethical and religious values and a sense of social responsibility coupled with the development of the creative and intellectual potential of their students. Their total enrollment is close to 3,500 undergraduates and 1,200 graduate students within all five of Fairfield’s schools. 

They have been nationally recognized for their accounting, nursing, liberal arts and science programs, which have produced 62 Fulbright scholars, a MacArthur fellow, and a Guggenheim fellow. Fairfield University offers an exciting residential Master’s in Science program in Business Analytics. 

This graduate program provides students with the highest quality education to bring them into leadership roles in the ever-expanding world of tech. Students will learn data science fundamentals, enabling them to gain the necessary skills to analyze massive data sets and apply the findings to contribute to the success of businesses, corporations, and organizations. 

This program is known for flexibility and convenience, as well as its relationships and proximity to Fortune 500 Companies in NYC, and has systematically been nationally ranked as an excellent and relevant program.

• Degree Name: M.S. Business Analytics Degree
• Program Duration: 30 credit hours

46. Syracuse University

Syracuse University, also referred to as Cuse, or CU, is a private research institution in Syracuse, with a history rooting back to the Genesee Wesleyan Seminary, which then became the Genesee College. Established in 1831, it was a project of the Methodist Episcopal Church, situated in the town of Lima, New York. 

In 1870, the college decided to transform. This independent university in Syracuse was established. In 1920, they became explicitly non-sectarian. 

Currently, they are located in the University Hill neighborhood of Syracuse, just southeast of downtown. This large campus features many architectural styles, including Romanesque Revival.

The School of Information Studies at Syracuse University, also known as the iSchool, offers a residential degree program in Information Management. This program is known for their interdisciplinary approach to the innovative coursework that sets this Master’s in Science degree-granting program apart from the others. 

This course of study combines many aspects of STEM disciplines with in-demand IT Communication skills, programming languages, data science fundamentals, data collection, machine learning techniques, design and implementation, and data analysis. 

Students will work with faculty who are the top in the field, and bring mentorship based on personal experience. Graduates of the program have found success in many fields including as consultants and analysts, working with some of the largest named companies in tech, and many have begun their own enterprise.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Applied Data Science
• Program Duration: 42 semester credits

47. Indiana University Bloomington

Indiana University Bloomington, also known as IU, and often referred to as simply Indiana, is a public research school situated in Bloomington, Indiana. They are both the flagship to the Indiana University System, as well as the largest, with a total enrollment of over 48,000 students. 

They are considered one of the Public Ivy schools in the country, meaning one of the top public universities in the country, with an education equivalent to that of an Ivy League School. Students attend IU from every state in the country, though 55% are from the state of Indiana.

The student body also represents 165 additional countries, as well as Puerto Rico. They are also known for an active student life, with over 750 student-run organizations. Indiana University Bloomington has a School of Informatics, Computing and Engineering, which offers the innovative residential master’s in Data Science. 

This well-respected program has a 30 credit hour requirement, and aimed at imparting the critical and timely skillset for students to be successful in the industry. Prospective students are not required to have previous experience academically or in the workforce in the field.

They value every student’s orientation and experience in this interdisciplinary program. There are options to achieve this program not only as a Master’s in Science degree program.

The IBM data science certification program could be a good path for some students interested in data life cycle. There are also options to studying in a hybrid format with some in person classroom experience and some online learning.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Data Science
• Program Duration: 30 semester credits

48. Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw State University is also known as KSU, and is a public research institution with its main campus in Kennesaw Georgia, just 20 minutes northwest of Atlanta. Their secondary campus is located in Marietta, Georgia. 

They also host classes at a myriad of additional locations, including Cobb Galleria Centre, Dalton State College, and Paulding County, which is in Dallas. Their current enrollment is just over 35,000 students. 

This brings them to the third largest post-secondary institution in the state of Georgia, and within the top 50 largest universities in the United States. Both campuses are in suburban settings, with a total acreage of 581.

The Ph.D. in Analytics and Data Science at Kennesaw State University offers an interdisciplinary degree program. Students receive advanced training in this doctoral program that bridges the divide between application and theory. 

Both academia and industry are heavily present in the program concepts, as faculty integrate Mathematics and Statistics with applications in Business, Healthcare, Transportation, and Public Policy, preparing the next generation of Data Scientists.

Some of the projects that doctoral students are working on in the Kennesaw State residential Doctoral Big Data program are aimed at improving processes in sales and marketing of online programs. 

These bring new insights into the healthcare field, such as identifying better strategies in vaccination distribution in the U.S. and developing countries, analyzing patterns of crime and weather to see how the two are related.

You’ll learn to find ways to attract and sustain engagement of underrepresented groups in the STEM fields and many others. With faculty holding a U.S. patent in an algorithm developed for one of these projects, Ph.D. students at Kennesaw State are changing the world of Big Data.

• Degree Name: Applied Statistics, MS // Ph.D. in Analytics and Data Science
• Program Duration: 36 credit hours // 48 credit hours + dissertation

49. University of Alabama in Huntsville

The University of Alabama in Huntsville was just a simple extension center for the University of Alabama until 1961. Beginning in 1950, classes were held in the local high school. 

The change came with NASA – the Marshall Space Flight Center turned Huntsville into “Rocket City,” making a small Alabama city into the center of the space program with the largest NASA site in the nation. 

NASA called for a public research university to tend to the educational needs of their engineers and managers. The humble UA Huntsville Center, almost overnight, became the University of Alabama in Huntsville, a major STEM research institution. 

Even now, UAH is ranked by U.S. News as a top-tier national university, and the Carnegie Foundation recognizes UAH as one of the most productive research universities in the nation. UAH, then, is an ideal place for a world-class Big Data degree program, and the UAH residential MS in Management Science-Business Analytics fits the bill. 

The UAH College of Business has been recognized by both the National Security Agency and the National Science Foundation for their fusion of technology and business, and the MSMS-BA focuses on the application of data analytics to business. 

This program is primarily designed for working professionals who want to learn to make the best use of the tons of data available today, and practice using that data to meet customer needs.

With a 30 credit program, full-time students can complete their MS in as little as one year, and with UAH’s best value ranking from U.S. News and the Princeton Review, students can be sure they’re getting a deal.

• Degree Name: MS in Management Science-Business Analytics
• Program Duration: 30 credit hours

50. Southern Methodist University

A private research university in Dallas, TX, Southern Methodist University came about almost by chance. The city of Dallas, which was growing into a major metropolitan area, had attempted to attract another college to the city, hoping to establish an institution in Dallas similar to the Southern Ivies (like Houston’s Rice University). 

That attempt was unsuccessful, but the Methodist Church wanted to open a university in the area. It was a fortunate choice, as Dallas’s population and economy boomed.

SMU’s access to Fortune 500 companies, finance, technology, and other industries helped make it one of the leading institutions in the nation for business and technology, ranked near the top 50 national universities by U.S. News & World Report.

With top data science programs – including the Cox School of Business, one of the most selective and prestigious in the US – SMU is an ideal location for Big Data. In fact, Southern Methodist offers two data-related master’s in data science programs. 

The Department of Statistical Science at SMU offers the MS in Applied Statistics and Data Analytics, while the Cox School offers SMU’s MS in Business Analytics. These two programs come at the Big Data field from two different angles. 

The MASDA approaches data from the technical standpoint, preparing students for the hard mathematics and computational demands of data collection and data analysis. The MS in Business Analytics, on the other hand, focuses on the organization, processing, and interpretation of data for business purposes. 

Both carries the SMU reputation in Dallas and around the world, making either the best value investment in a Big Data master’s degree.

• Degree Name: M.S. in Applied Statistics and Data Analytics / / M.S. in Business Analytics
• Program Duration: 36 credit hours / / 33 credit hours

How We Ranked the Best Data Analytics Master’s Programs

The following top 50 graduate degree programs in Big Data were ranked according to Value Colleges’ tried and true definition of “value” – the programs that provide the best balance of cost, quality, and return on investment. That includes four evenly weighted metrics (totaling 100%) for this ranking:

• Reputation (U.S. News)
• ROI (a median was derived between Payscale College Salary Report and the US Dept. of Education’s Scorecard data)
• Cost (NR total program cost reported from each institution’s published rates)
• Big Data Pioneer (Schools on previous VC Big Data ranking)

If you need the flexibility of an online data science master’s degree, take a look at our data science master’s rankings of the Best Value Top 50 Online Big Data Programs. Online data science programs are just as reputable.

What Is Data Science?

Data science is a multidisciplinary field that combines mathematics, statistics, computer, linear algebra, and domain-specific knowledge to extract valuable insights from vast amounts of data. It plays a vital role in various industries, from targeted advertising and medical imaging to supply chain optimization. It functions in a cycle of steps:

• Problem identification
• Data gathering or mining
• Data cleaning or checking
• Data analyzing or exploring 
• Data modeling
• Model deployment
• Model visualization

What Is the Growth in the Data Science Field?

The data science field is experiencing explosive growth, with an incredible projected growth rate of 35% over the next decade. In 2022, data scientists had a median salary of $103,500 annually, reflecting the high demand and value in the Information Age. 

The rapid growth of data scientist jobs can be attributed to several factors:

• The exponential increase in data generation across various industries, driven by digital transformation and the proliferation of connected devices and sensors.
• The recognition of data as a valuable asset for businesses, leading to a growing need for professionals who can extract insights and drive data-driven decision-making.
• The advancements in technologies such as machine learning, AI, and big data analytics, have expanded the applications and capabilities of data science.

Why Get a Master’s in Data Science Online?

These trends are only growing as the need for data scientists. The data science industry is every industry. Professionals work in the fields of business, finance, government, healthcare, social networking, health analytics, and technology continue to evolve. Schools have built data science graduate programs to meet the demand.

Technology is a technique or artifact that has the effect of centralizing control, power or wealth. – Innovation Economics

In 2022, the BLS data for data science professionals reported 168,900 jobs with a median annual wage of $103,500. In terms of the job outlook, this field of employment is estimated to grow 35% from 2022 – 2032.

As the schools profiled in these data science master’s programs rankings describe, many of them are all-inclusive, providing tools, knowledge, and networking opportunities for students to secure a very lucrative career in many fields.

Master’s in data science programs offer all this and more. Data analytics master’s degrees are now highly sought. If you already have a bachelor’s degree in an area like artificial intelligence, a data science track is a great route. Data science skills, like how to interpret data, make data science worth your effort. 

Data science degrees are in high demand. Every major company today needs data science teams so that a data analyst can have their choice. Data scientists play in the big leagues in the 21st century!

So bring your problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and curiosity and put them to work for you with this small but growing group of data science careers: mathematicians, statisticians, and computer scientists. 

A data science job is a job for the future. Together, you will help solve the world’s data storage, access, and marketing needs, one data set at a time. Students should also consider online data science programs like these:

Big Decisions Rely on Big Data

In 2011, McKinsey Global Institute called Big Data “the Next Frontier.” That was then; now, Big Data is so much a part of life. It’s not frontier – it’s everyday. Professionals in Big Data may be called data scientists, data analysts, information engineers, or any one of a number of different titles. 

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) classifies these workers as statisticians, computer programmers, or other professionals, depending on their tasks. In fact, the work of the BLS is in itself a fine example of Big Data at work!

Also note, Linkedin, the massive professional network, ranked business intelligence, data mining, and data engineering – all Big Data skillsets – among the 25 hottest skills of today. These data science degree programs give you those skills.

What Are the Benefits of Completing a Data Science Program?

Pursuing a degree in data science can open up a world of opportunities and rewards. This rapidly evolving field offers a unique blend of versatility, valuable skill development, and the potential to make a meaningful impact. Here are some key benefits of earning a data science degree:

• Practice versatility and flexibility: Data scientists are employed in a variety of sectors, offering you the flexibility to choose a STEM career path that aligns with your interests and passions. With a data science degree, you gain the ability to work across a wide range of industries, including healthcare, finance, retail, technology, and government. 
• Gain valuable skills: A data science degree equips you with a diverse set of highly sought-after skills, including machine learning, data analysis, programming, and modeling. These skills are transferable and can be applied to solve complex problems across various domains, making you a valuable asset to potential employers.
• Create an impact in the industry: You can contribute to the development of new technologies and help shape the future of various industries. Data scientists play a key role in driving innovation and solving complex problems across multiple domains.
• Secure networking opportunities: As a data scientist, you’ll get a chance to connect with like-minded professionals, industry experts, and potential employers. These connections can result in job opportunities, collaborations, and lasting professional relationships for your career growth.
• Experience lifelong learning: The field of data science is constantly evolving, with new techniques, tools, and technologies emerging regularly. Earning a graduate or undergraduate degree can instill a love for a lifetime pursuit of learning and experience.

By completing a data science online program, you can position yourself for a rewarding and impactful career. This leads to the ability to make a difference across industries while continuously expanding your knowledge and skill set.

How Can I Find the Best Data Science Programs?

When searching for the best data science master’s programs, it’s crucial to evaluate several key factors to ensure you receive a comprehensive and valuable education. These programs should provide a strong theoretical foundation and equip you with practical, hands-on experience in big data analytics and other essential data science skills.

Here are some factors to consider:

Assess the Program Credibility

Consider rankings and accreditations from reputable sources, as well as alumni success stories and employer feedback. A program’s reputation can impact your career prospects and networking opportunities.

Examine Curriculum Quality and Reputation

Look for programs that cover a wide range of topics, including statistical modeling, machine learning, data mining, visualization, and programming languages like Python and R. A well-rounded curriculum is essential for developing a diverse skillset.

Check the Faculty Expertise

Research the faculty members’ backgrounds, publications, and industry experience. Reputable programs typically have professors who are actively involved in data science research and real-world experience in the field.

Look for Balance in Practice and Theories

Seek programs that strike a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical applications. Hands-on projects, capstone experiences, and internship opportunities can provide valuable real-world experience.

“Of course such opportunities are advantageous simply because they are fantastic, evidence-based ways to facilitate learning,” mentions Dr. Jerome Rekart. “However, their usefulness can truly be leveraged if they result in a project or opportunity that can be showcased to potential employers. In this regard, anything that can be added to one’s portfolio will be useful in the long run.” 

Determine the Admission Requirements

Understand the program’s admission criteria, such as a minimum GPA, GRE scores (if required), and prerequisite courses. Some programs may require an undergraduate degree in a quantitative field, while others may accept international students from diverse backgrounds.

Consider the Delivery Format

Determine whether you prefer an on-campus, online, or hybrid program. Online master’s programs can offer flexibility for working professionals, while on-campus programs may provide more opportunities for collaboration and networking.

Related Questions

Which Master’s Degree Is Best for Data Science?

For aspiring professionals, a Master of Science (M.S.) in Data Science or a related field such as Statistics, Computer Science, or Information Systems with a concentration in Data Science is considered the most suitable degree path. These professional studies programs equip students with the necessary technical skills, programming expertise, and analytical abilities.

Is a Master’s in Data Science Worth It?

Pursuing a Master’s in Data Science is undoubtedly worthwhile, as it provides students with advanced training in big data technologies, machine learning, and statistical modeling techniques. With the increasing demand for skilled data scientists across industries, this degree can lead to lucrative career opportunities and higher earning potential.

What Is Johns Hopkins Ranked for Data Science Masters?

Johns Hopkins University is highly regarded for its online master of science programs in data science and related fields. According to recent rankings, the university’s online Master of Science in Data Science is consistently ranked among the top programs nationwide. It is applauded for its rigorous curriculum, experienced faculty, and flexible online learning format.

Can You Work a Data Science Degree Into Your Schedule?

Yes, flexibility is possible when pursuing a data science degree. Although some programs require on-campus attendance, many universities offer a blend of evening, weekend, and online classes to accommodate working professionals or those with other commitments. Additionally, there are numerous hybrid and fully online master’s in data science programs available.

Are There Internships or Practicums for Data Science Programs?

There are internships for data science students, providing hands-on experience in the field. Many reputable programs connect students to different industries and offer a variety of internship opportunities, mentorship programs, and numerous networking events.

Can a Data Science Degree Help Start My Career?

A data science degree can significantly enhance your career prospects as a data scientist in the field. You could contact data science programs about the percentage of graduates who have received employment offers or promotions in data science or related fields, as this can provide insights into the program’s career preparedness.

What Skills Will I Learn From a Data Science Degree?

A data science degree program will teach you skills like data analysis, data mining, statistical modeling, data management, data ethics, and machine learning methods. These skills help scientists manage data-driven work.

How Can Data Scientists Use Machine Learning?

Data scientists leverage machine learning techniques by developing algorithms so computers can use data to improve efficiency. These machine-learning methods help data scientists identify patterns and automate decision-making processes.

Can I Specialize in a Specific Area in a Data Science Degree?

Yes, most reputable data science graduate programs offer specialization options, allowing you to focus on a specific area of interest. This specialized training may include machine learning and advanced expertise in that domain.

What Is the Purpose of Data Mining in a Data Science Degree?

For a data science degree, data mining extracts valuable information from large and complex datasets data science degree. Here, you will learn various techniques to discover patterns, correlations, and trends within the data, resulting in data-driven decisions and accurate predictions.

How Does Statistical Modeling Contribute to Data Science?

Statistical modeling creates mathematical representations of real-world processes and phenomena. Data scientists use this model to analyze and interpret data and make reliable predictions.

What Is the Importance of Data Management in a Data Science Degree?

Data management is a vital component of earning a data science degree. It involves organizing, storing, and maintaining data efficiently and securely. Effective data management practices ensure data integrity, consistency, and accessibility, enabling data scientists to perform their tasks accurately and seamlessly.

Conclusion

Equipped with the knowledge of the best data science master’s programs, you can confidently embark on a journey toward enhancing your skills and expertise. By enrolling in a top-ranked program, you’ll gain a competitive edge in the job market, unlock opportunities for higher earning potential, and contribute significantly to the rapidly evolving field of data science.