No business or organization in today's world wants to be in the dark about data. Giant leaps of efficiency, meaning, and insight come from harnessing data.
Companies with data-driven cultures were three times more likely to report significant improvements in decision-making than those without data-driven cultures, according to 2015 research by PwC.
It's why data science is one of the fastest-growing professions and academic disciplines, and why online master's in data science degrees are increasingly in demand.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects data science jobs to increase by 35% from 2022-2032, the third highest rate in the country. Data scientists earned a median annual salary of $103,500 in May 2022.
Some data scientist roles require a master's degree, according to the BLS. Since data science is still relatively new, employers don't expect everyone to have a data science degree.
But, an online master's in data science offers significant relevance, convenience, and flexibility, both for current data scientists and career changers.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Master's in Data Science Programs
Explore our list of the top five online data science master’s degrees of 2023 to discover programs that can help you reach your career goals. Follow the link below for more information about our ranking methodology.
#1 5 Best Online Master’s in Data Science 2023
Johns Hopkins University
- Baltimore, MD
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Founded in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1876, Johns Hopkins University was the United States' first research university. In the 2021 fiscal year, Johns Hopkins spent over three billion dollars in research and development funding, more than any other university in the country.
Data Science Master’s Program Online
Johns Hopkins’ online data science master’s program offers a flexible timeline, with students completing ten courses within five years. The curriculum features both synchronous and asynchronous course format options. Learners can also choose face-to-face instruction for some classes.
The program's seven required classes focus on topics like data visualization, statistical models, and machine learning. Students choose three electives based on their career interests. Elective courses cover concepts like information retrieval, game theory, and stochastic optimization.
Applying to Johns Hopkins
Admissions requirements include a bachelor’s degree and prior coursework in calculus, algebra, discrete mathematics, and programming. Applicants also submit transcripts and optional resumes. Johns Hopkins does not require GRE scores.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Tuition: $5,872/course
- Required Credits: 30
- Program Length: 1-5 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous and asynchronous) or hybrid
Percent Online Enrollment
88%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#2 5 Best Online Master’s in Data Science 2023
University of California-Berkeley
- Berkeley, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Founded in 1868, the University of California, Berkeley offers more than 350 majors across 184 departments and programs. Berkeley is also home to The Daily Californian, one of the United States' oldest college newspapers.
Online Master’s in Data Science
The master of information and data science (MIDS) program at Berkeley provides several completion paths to suit working students' schedules. Learners can enroll in the standard 20-month program, a 12-month accelerated track, or a decelerated 32-month option.
The MIDS core curriculum covers key data science skills like research design, data cleansing, machine learning, and information ethics. To graduate, MIDS students must design and execute a data science capstone project. A required 3- to 4-day in-person immersion program features workshops and networking opportunities.
Applying to Berkeley
Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree and a GPA of 3.0 or better. Prospective MIDS candidates must also submit official transcripts, a statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, and a resume. GRE scores are not required.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
- Tuition: $2,780/unit
- Required Credits: 27
- Program Length: 12-32 months
- Delivery Format: Online with some on-campus requirements
Percent Online Enrollment
97%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#3 5 Best Online Master’s in Data Science 2023
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
- Ann Arbor, MI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Ann Arbor, the University of Michigan (U-M) serves students from all 50 U.S. states and 100 countries. More than one million students have taken online classes through U-M's school of information.
Master of Applied Data Science
The online master of applied data science (MADS) program at U-M takes an end-to-end approach that teaches students to apply data science theory to real-world problems. Most classes entail one credit and last for about four weeks. Students need 34 credits to graduate.
MADS courses cover topics like data visualization, computational methods, and analytic techniques. Students gain hands-on experience with actual data sets from top companies to prepare for real-world data management challenges. Three major projects help learners build their professional portfolios before graduation.
Applying to U-M
Students with bachelor’s degrees can apply for the MADS program by submitting a resume, official transcripts, and one letter of recommendation. Admission also requires two short essays and a personal statement. Students must also show fluency in Python, but do not need GRE scores.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $1,022/credit (in state), $1,357/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 34 credits
- Program Length: 1-3 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
Percent Online Enrollment
91%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 5 Best Online Master’s in Data Science 2023
The University of Texas at Austin
- Austin, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Founded in 1883, the University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) is the University of Texas system's flagship institution. UT Austin serves more than 11,000 graduate students in 237 degree programs, including data science.
Master of Science in Data Science Online
Students in UT Austin’s master of science in data science (MSDS) program complete ten classes to graduate. Course topics include regression and predictive modeling, deep learning, and complex data modeling. The MSDS program offers no electives, so all enrollees complete the same 10-course series.
The program’s asynchronous course structure provides schedule flexibility, and students have up to six years to complete their degrees. The degree path accommodates full-time or part-time enrollment and admits learners in both the spring and fall semesters.
Applying to UT Austin
Most MSDS applicants hold undergraduate degrees in statistics, computer science, mathematics, engineering, or related fields. Students should submit a statement of purpose, a resume, a mathematics preparedness form, and transcripts. All applicants must take the MSDS Quest Assessment, but GRE scores and letters of recommendation are optional.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition: $333/credit
- Required Credits: 30
- Program Length: 1.5-6 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 5 Best Online Master’s in Data Science 2023
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- Champaign, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Founded in 1867, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (Illinois) is one of the United States' 37 original land-grant institutions. The university enrolls over 15,000 graduate learners and boasts more than 470,000 living alumni.
Online Master of Computer Science in Data Science
The eight-course online master of computer science in data science (MCS-DS) program at Illinois teaches students to manage, interpret, and maintain massive data sets. This coursework-only program does not require a thesis.
MCS-DS candidates can pursue topics of interest within foundational data science subjects like data visualization and cloud computing. Elective courses allow students to explore areas like numerical analysis, parallel programing, and interactive computer graphics.
Applying to Illinois
Applicants need a bachelor’s degree and a 3.0 GPA or higher. Required materials include an online application, an academic statement of purpose, and a resume. Personal statements, letters of recommendation, and GRE scores are optional.
Applicants who majored or minored in computer science at Illinois and meet GPA requirements receive guaranteed admission.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $670/credit
- Required Credits: 32
- Program Length: 1-5 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Why Get Your Master's in Data Science Online?
Online data science degrees can offer students flexibility, accessibility, and convenience. Many distance learning programs use online course portals, which allow enrollees to complete assignments on more flexible schedules. This flexibility helps students balance their studies with personal and professional obligations.
Additionally, online students can attend top programs around the country without relocating. Some schools offer in-state tuition to all distance learners, while others charge a discounted rate for online courses.
Earning an online master's in data science can help graduates gain new skills, qualify for more job opportunities, and change careers. A data science bootcamp may work for learners who can digest large amounts of information in short periods of time. However, master's programs give students more time to hone their skills.
A few of the benefits of earning a data science master's degree online include:
-
Greater career opportunities: Because so many organizations need help managing and understanding their data, an online data science degree can lead to many career opportunities. Potential jobs include data scientist, computer and information research scientist, and database administrator.
-
Make a career change: Graduates can use a master's in data science to advance their careers or change careers completely.
-
Develop in-demand skills: Students in master's in data science programs cultivate in-demand skills in SQL, Python, and JavaScript. They also hone project management, quality assurance, communication, and interpersonal skills.
What to Expect From an Online Master's in Data Science Program
An online master's in data science program teaches students to collect, organize, and interpret data to help organizations make informed decisions. They study topics like data analysis, data visualization, programming languages, and data mining.
A typical online master's in data science takes two years of full-time study to complete. Part-time learners may take three or more years to graduate. Costs vary, but private institutions typically charge higher tuition rates than in-state public schools.
Most master's in data science programs include courses on topics like algorithms for data science, statistical methods and data analysis, data visualization, and principles of database systems.
How Is an Online Master's in Data Science Different From an On-Campus Program?
The learning experience is the biggest difference between online and traditional master's in data science programs. Online learning is more flexible and generally cheaper than in-person learning. But it requires more self-discipline, motivation, and organization to stay on track.
The table below contrasts other differences between on-campus and online master's degree programs.
Online vs. On-Campus Master's in Data Science Degrees
|
Online |
On-Campus |
| Price Range |
Online programs may cost as little as $10,000 to over $45,000. Hybrid degrees may have additional program costs, including travel, room, and board. |
On-campus programs typically range from $35,000 - $60,000, not including relocation expenses or commuting costs. |
| Program Length |
Full-time enrollees usually complete online degrees in 12-36 months. Some programs may offer accelerated tracks that let students finish their coursework even more quickly. |
Full-time enrollees usually complete on-campus degrees in 11-24 months. Part-time students may take longer to complete their degree. |
| Scheduling |
Online degrees typically offer synchronous or asynchronous courses. Some programs may include hybrid requirements that bring students to campus. |
Students attend classes in person. To accommodate working professionals, classes may run in the evenings or on weekends. |
| Course Load |
Online learners take 1-3 classes per semester if enrolled full time. Part-time students may take fewer courses per term. |
On-campus learners take 3-5 classes per semester if enrolled full time. Part-time students may take fewer courses per term. |
Source: University of Texas, Northwestern University, University of Connecticut, University of Michigan
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
How Is an Online Master's in Data Science Different From a Bootcamp?
Data science bootcamps are intensive career preparation programs with a different educational experience than data science online degrees.
Bootcamps often cater to students coming from unrelated career fields who want to transition into a position in data science. Because bootcamps usually focus on specific skills — rather than exploring a broader curriculum like degrees do — many enrollees complete these programs in only a few months.
In contrast, online data science master's programs teach students advanced data science skills so they can qualify for upper-level data science positions. Additionally, bootcamp graduates do not earn a degree and are often not able to convert their bootcamp coursework into transfer credit.
Delivery Formats for Online Master's in Data Science Programs
Data science online degrees come in multiple formats, meeting learners' varied needs.
For example, some online data science programs are 100% online, which means students complete their education without ever visiting a college campus.
Hybrid degrees, on the other hand, offer a mixture of distance learning and in-person education. Some hybrid programs require in-person attendance for specific classes or other learning opportunities, so students should research potential programs carefully.
Additionally, online classes come in two formats: Synchronous classes happen in real time, often through web conferencing, requiring students to log on at specific times on certain days. Synchronous classes can benefit students who prefer a set schedule or live interactions with their professors and classmates.
Though asynchronous classes still maintain deadlines for assignments and assessments, they typically use more flexible schedules, which allow students to complete coursework at their convenience. Asynchronous classes may be a good fit for students who have commitments that would conflict with a more rigid weekly course schedule.
Regardless of program type, enrollees in online data science degree programs should expect a rigorous education. Instructors expect learners to engage with course material, study for tests, and submit coursework online in a timely fashion.
Accreditation for Online Master's in Data Science Degrees
As prospective learners explore schools, they should verify that each institution holds accreditation. The institutional accreditation process verifies that a school's academic offerings meet standards of academic rigor and excellence.
Accredited institutions qualify for federal grant funding. This funding can help students offset their college costs. Learn more about paying for a data science degree before you enroll in a program. An online data science master's degree may also hold programmatic accreditation.
Programmatic accreditation applies to departments or programs within an institution and verifies whether the curriculum adequately prepares students for careers in the field. Data science programs can receive programmatic accreditation through organizations like ABET.
How Much Will an Online Master's in Data Science Cost?
The cost of an online master's in data science varies by school. But, the average tuition and fees of a graduate-level math, engineering and computer science degree was $11,079 in 2020, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
Students should research financial aid opportunities like scholarships, grants, and loans to help offset the cost of their degree. Unlike loans, scholarships and grants do not require repayment.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Choosing Your Online Master's in Data Science Program
Our ranking of the top online data science degree programs provides an excellent starting point for research, but prospective students should consider a variety of factors before deciding on a school. Below, we describe some key considerations for prospective data science students.
Accreditation
Accreditation indicates that a school meets standards of educational excellence regarding faculty qualifications, student learning outcomes, and academic rigor.
University Resources
Prospective enrollees should research the availability of student support resources like tutoring, career development services, and research assistance.
Cost
Learners should research the estimated cost of attendance for prospective programs. To help defray these expenses, they should also look into financial aid opportunities, like scholarships, grants, and loans.
Program Length
A typical online master's in data science takes two years of full-time study to complete, but some schools offer accelerated programs that allow students to graduate more quickly.
Networking Opportunities
Many of the best data science online degree programs give students the opportunity to meet with other data science professionals and build connections that can further their careers.
Capstone Projects
Capstone projects give students hands-on experience identifying real-world problems, designing analytics methodologies, and implementing solutions. These projects prepare graduates for issues they may face in their careers.
Edited by
