The United States is one of the top study destinations for mastering Data Science and analytics globally owing to the world-class universities, competent faculty, flexible and comprehensive program structures, and practical learning opportunities.
Data Science is an interdisciplinary field combining the principles of mathematics, computer science, statistics, and artificial intelligence. Data Science is crucial in businesses and research activities to extract relevant information and statistics from structured or unstructured data.
Data Science career opportunities in the US are on the rise, owing to increased numbers of businesses requiring efficient data processing for seamless business operations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 35.8% employment growth for data scientists is estimated between 2021 and 2031.
All these factors make the USA an excellent choice for mastering Data Science, leveraging rewarding job opportunities in this domain, and leading a superior professional life.
Explore this blog by MSM Unify to learn about the best universities for a master’s in Data Science in the USA, admission requirements, job opportunities, and other relevant information on pursuing a master’s in Data Science in the USA.
Student Loan Options for Master of Science Degree in the US
Master’s in Data Science, USA: Program Highlights
This table provides a summary of the key factors to consider when pursuing an MS in Computer Science in the USA.
| Specializations |
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| Course duration | 1 – 2 years |
| Course fee (approximately) | $30,000 to $105,000 approximately annually |
| Eligibility criteria | Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field from a recognized university (a minimum of 3 GPA out of 4) * For exact eligibility criteria, you need to check the official university website |
| Entrance exam | GRE (a score of 300 or above) |
| English proficiency proof | TOEFL (a minimum of 95) or IELTS (a minimum of 7.5) |
| Admission requirements |
* For exact admission requirements, you need to check the official university website |
| Top recruiting companies | Amazon, Meta, Google, Apple, Walmart, LinkedIn, ALLDATA, Microsoft, etc. |
| Job profiles and average salaries |
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Top 10 Universities in the US for Data Science
The Usa universities offering comprehensive Data Science programs. Here’s a rundown of the ten best universities in the USA for MS in Data Science.
| University | QS World University Rankings 2025 | Program name | Average annual tuition fees (USD) |
| Harvard University | 4 | MS Data Science | $61,500 approximately |
| Stanford University | 5 | MS in Statistics – Data Science | $43,200 approximately |
| Columbia University | 23 | MS in Data Science | $57,500 approximately |
| Yale University | 16 | MA in Statistics and Data Science | $49,300 approximately |
| University of Pennsylvania | 12 | MS in Engineering in Data Science | $37,500 approximately |
| Duke University | 57 | MS in Data Science | $65,500 approximately |
| New York University | 38 | MS in Data Science | $38,500 approximately |
| Brown University | 73 | MS in Data Science | $82,500 approximately |
| University Of Rochester | 224 | MS in Data Science | $60,500 approximately |
| George Washington University | 340 | MS in Data Science | $59,500 approximately |
Please note: These figures are estimates based on 2025 data and may vary depending on program specifics, duration, and other factors.
Scholarships for International Master of Science Students in the US
Why should you study MS in Data Science in the USA?
Here are the top reasons why you should study MS in Data Science in the USA. These details will help you identify the myriad benefits of pursuing this specialization in the United States.
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An abundance of top-notch universities
As noted in 2025, 120 recognized universities in the United States offer Master’s in Data Science. This list of universities includes several universities with high QS World Rankings 2025, such as Harvard University, Stanford University, Yale University, Columbia University, and many more.
All these universities offer unique program structures with a range of electives to choose from, modern learning and research facilities, and excellent placement opportunities.
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Affordable Data Science Master’s in the USA
Pursuing a master’s in Data Science in the USA need not be expensive as there are many institutions in the country with affordable tuition fees and a good acceptance rate.
Also, pursuing an MS in Data Science in the USA without the GRE or GMAT is possible. Skim through the table for more information.
| Institution name | Acceptance rate (approximately) | Average tuition fees for international students (approximately) | Need for the GRE or GMAT |
| New College of Florida | 74% | $29,944 approximately | No |
| Oklahoma State University | 39.5% | $29,440 approximately | Yes |
| University of Minnesota | 17.06% | $21,040 approximately | No |
| Maryville University | 35% | $16,457 approximately | No |
| Texas Tech University | 55.45% | $40,000 approximately | No |
| Regis University | 50% | $45,990 approximately | No |
Please note: These figures are estimates based on the latest data and may vary depending on the university management.
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Exceptional educational system
The best universities offering master’s in Data Science in the USA are known for their exceptional educational system. Most universities offer a flexible higher education system that allows students to learn as per their needs and convenience.
Also, students can leverage unique elective options and choose subjects that conform to their interests and preferences.
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Competent faculty
The top universities in the USA for MS in Data Science have expert faculty with outstanding credentials and vast experience. They have updated knowledge of their subject, expertise, and skills to educate students as per the global market standards.
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Excellent learning and research facilities
Data science is a continually evolving field that requires extensive research and innovation.
Most American universities offering master’s in Data Science are equipped with modern infrastructure and state-of-the-art learning and research facilities. These facilities enable international students to master critical concepts and develop the requisite skills to succeed in this field.
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Job prospects
There’s no shortage of career opportunities for students pursuing Data Science and Analytics. Students admitted to top universities in the USA for MS in Data Science can avail of internship opportunities, part-time jobs, or projects to develop practical skills and master theoretical concepts.
After completion of the course, students can explore a wide range of well-paying job opportunities in this domain. Data science professionals typically earn in the range of $ 65,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on their job profile and competency.
Furthermore, as per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects, it is projected that there will be an approximately 27.9% increase in the number of jobs requiring data science expertise by 2026. So, rest assured of job prospects in the USA for Data Science professionals.
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Scholarships and Funding
Many Data Science programs in the USA are supported with full or partial funding options. These funding facilities help meritorious students with financial constraints to get quality education abroad.
Here are listed some scholarships for pursuing an MS in Data Science in the USA:
- Daniel Larose Scholarship for Data Mining Excellence
An annual award worth $4,000 per year or $2,000 per semester is offered to postgraduate students who excel in the MS in data-mining program at Central Connecticut State University.
- HIMSS Minnesota Graduate Health IT Scholarship
This scholarship awards $2,000 to doctorate students and $1,500 to master’s students pursuing quantitative-based health informatics degrees, such as data science or data analytics.
Please note: Graduates with a minimum 3.0 GPA (out of 4) residing in Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, North Dakota, or South Dakota are eligible for this scholarship.
- CA Technologies Fellowship for Women
This is one of the most prestigious big data scholarships offered at the University of Vermont. This scholarship covers full tuition fees up to $14,670 each semester for women studying the MS in Complex Systems and Data Science.
- Fisher Family Fund Fellowship Program
Every Spring, as a part of this program, outstanding graduate students within the College of Computing and Informatics pursuing MS in Data Science and Business Analytics are awarded $ 2,000 as financial assistance.
- Lilly Endowment Scholarship for Data Science
It is a merit-based scholarship that awards $1,000 every term for a total of $5,000 to exceptional post-graduate students pursuing the rigorous MS in Data Science program at Saint Mary’s College.
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Internship opportunities
The best universities for masters in Data Science in the USA offer abundant internship opportunities or live projects to give industry exposure to postgraduate students.
These opportunities help students develop hands-on skills and conceptual understanding beyond classroom learning, which helps them excel in the professional world.
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Vibrant campus life
American universities are known to offer a vibrant campus life with the inclusion of students from different countries, diverse ethnicities, and unique cultural backgrounds. This cultural diversity helps international students broaden their thinking, become empathetic, and develop confidence to face challenging situations.
Why Do Students Want to Get a Master’s Degree?
Conclusion
There are top-notch universities offering master’s in Data Science in the USA. These universities offer unique program structures, scholarships, internships, projects, and other learning opportunities to help students develop personally and professionally.
To get into the best master’s in Data Science program in the USA, it is wise to consult with expert overseas education consultants with relevant experience in this domain.
At MSM Unify, you can consult with competent study abroad consultants and seek tailored advice. Also, MSM Unify can help you explore 50,000+ courses across 1,400 institutions globally, find the best-fit course and university, avail of scholarships or other financial assistance, and provide end-to-end guidance to help you secure admission to the desired university.
FAQs
1. What are the prerequisites for pursuing a Master’s in Data Science in the USA?
Most programs require a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as computer science, mathematics, or engineering, along with knowledge of programming and statistics.
2. How long does it take to complete a Master’s in Data Science in the USA?
Typically, it takes 1.5 to 2 years to complete a full-time Master’s in Data Science, depending on the program and curriculum structure.
3. Is work experience necessary to apply for a Master’s in Data Science in the USA?
While work experience is not always mandatory, having prior professional experience in a related field can strengthen your application and improve your chances of admission.
4. What is the average tuition fee for a Master’s in Data Science in the USA?
The average tuition fee ranges from $20,000 to $80,000 approximately per year, varying by university, program, and location.
5. Are scholarships available for international students pursuing a Master’s in Data Science in the USA?
Yes, many universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships for international students. Additionally, external funding sources are also available.
6. What are the career opportunities after completing a Master’s in Data Science in the USA?
Graduates can pursue roles such as data scientist, data analyst, machine learning engineer, and business intelligence analyst in sectors like finance, healthcare, tech, and more.
7. Is the GRE/GMAT required for admission to a Master’s in Data Science program in the USA?
Some universities require the GRE or GMAT, while others have made it optional or have waived the requirement entirely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
8. Can international students work part-time while studying for a Master’s in Data Science in the USA?
Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week on-campus during the academic term and full-time during breaks, subject to visa regulations.
9. What programming languages are commonly used in Masters in Data Science programs in the USA?
Common programming languages include Python, R, SQL, and Java, with Python being the most widely used in data science courses and projects.
10. Is it possible to specialize in a specific field within data science during the Master’s program?
Yes, many programs offer specializations in areas such as machine learning, big data analytics, artificial intelligence, and business analytics.
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