Best Master’s in Data Science for 2024
It’s no secret that the need for data experts is growing due to the exponential amount of data being generated every day. One of the best ways to gain the in-demand skills to be able to harness, analyze, and create value from data is pursuing a master’s degree. This ranking was last updated February 2024.
UC Berkeley’s Master’s in Data Science — Online
Master Key Skills in Data Mining, Machine Learning, Research Design & More
The online Master of Information and Data Science (MIDS) program is preparing the next generation of experts and leaders in the data science field and providing students with a UC Berkeley education without having to relocate. Students graduate with connections to UC Berkeley’s extensive alumni network in the Bay Area and across the world. All international applicants will be required to submit official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores.
Learn MoreGRE Required | No |
Part Time | Yes |
Syracuse University MS in Applied Data Science Online
Our Updated Curriculum at Syracuse University Prepares You to Be a Leader in Data Science
Don't get left behind as the data science industry evolves. In as few as 18 months, earn your MS in Applied Data Science from Syracuse University, ranked #25 in Best Online Graduate Computer Information Technology Programs. Apply today to gain the analytical, technical and managerial expertise required to stand out in a competitive job market. No GRE required.
Learn MoreGRE Required | No |
Part Time | Yes |
1. Harvard University
Cambridge, MAHarvard University’s masters in data science does not require test scores, and applicants are advised not to submit or mention them. Three letters of recommendation are needed to apply, and international students must provide a TOEFL or IELTS score if the primary language of their undergraduate instruction is not English. Tuition costs $61,768 for students’ first year, and then $30,884 for the second year (one term only). The application deadline was December 1, 2023, for the fall term. (*Note on reported undergraduate GPA for 2023-24 enrollees: “only includes students whose undergraduate institutions used a 4-point scale (75% of enrollees)”).
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 6.19% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.87* |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 132 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 99.5% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 1613 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 99.02% |
2. University of North Texas
Denton, TXThe University of North Texas does not require the submission of any standardized tests to apply, but international students must provide proof of English language proficiency. Two letters of recommendation are needed. Tuition and fees for in-state students is about $8,600 (nine credit hours per semester) and about $16,200 for out-of-state students (nine credit hours per semester). The deadline to apply for the fall 2024 cohort was December 10, 2023.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 26.50% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.5 |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 577 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 98% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 3104 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 98.80% |
3. New York University
New York, NYNYU’s master’s in data science program does not require a GRE score, but international students must turn in either a TOEFL or IELTS scores—or meet certain exceptions. Three letters of recommendation are needed to apply. Annual tuition is $41,184 for domestic and international students, and the deadline to apply is January 22 for the fall 2024 cohort. Four months post-program, graduates earn median pay of $132,522.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 28.63% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.75 |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 325 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 88.89% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 1432 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 98.11% |
Earn Your Master’s in Data Science Online From SMU
Want to pursue a top 3 job in the U.S.? Earn a M.S. online and become a data scientist with SMU
Designed for working professionals looking to advance their careers, DataScience@SMU is an online Master of Science in Data Science from Southern Methodist University. The program’s interdisciplinary curriculum prepares data science professionals to work with large datasets, analyze information and relate findings. The program blends live online classes, self-paced coursework and in-person learning experiences with classmates and faculty.
Learn MoreGRE Required | No |
Part Time | Yes |
4. University of Michigan--Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, MIAt the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor, standardized tests are not required to apply for its data science master’s program. Two letters of recommendation are needed, and international students must submit a TOEFL score. The program is jointly run by the university’s statistics, biostatistics, electrical engineering and computer science, and information units. The deadline to apply for the fall 2024 cohort is January 15. Annual tuition is about $13,600 for in-state students and $27,400 for those out of state.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 14% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.5 |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 118 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 92.50% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 1555 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 97% |
5. Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PACarnegie Mellon’s master of computational data science requires a GRE score to apply, but it is waived for CMU undergraduates. Three letters of recommendation are needed to apply, and international student must submit a TOEFL score. Annual tuition costs $55,800. Four months post-program, graduates earn $135,000 in median pay. Applications were due in December 2023 for the fall cohort.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 12% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | DNP |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 106 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 100% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 1095 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 100% |
6. University of California--Irvine
Irvine, CAThe University of California—Irvine master of data science program does not use GRE scores in its admissions evaluation. International students are required to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score required. Three letters of recommendation are needed to apply, and the annual program tuition is $57,540. International applicants have until January 15 to apply; the deadline for U.S. residents is April 15.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 17% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.59 |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 46 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 100% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 1226 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 93% |
7. University of Rochester
Rochester, NYFor the University of Rochester’s master’s in data science program, GRE scores are not required, but they may be submitted. Proof of English proficiency must be turned in via TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores—unless applicants qualify for a waiver. Three letters of recommendation are needed, and the program tuition is about $63,000 annually. Graduates make about $130,000 in annual median pay four months post-program. Applications are due February 15 for the fall 2024 cohort.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 29% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.5 |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 49 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 98% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 658 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 98% |
8. Indiana University--Bloomington
Bloomington, INIndiana University’s Bloomington residential data science master’s program does not require applicants to submit a GRE score (GMAT not accepted), but language scores are required for non-native English speakers. Applications must submit three letters of recommendation. In-state students pay $9,000 in annual tuition; out-of-state student cost is about $30,000. Four months post-grad, alumni earn median pay of $127,000. The deadline to apply for the fall 2024 cohort was January 1.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 48% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.72 |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 474 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 96.20% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 1229 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 95% |
Maryville University Master of Science in Data Science | Online
Model the future. Then make it your own with Maryville's Data Science program.
Earn your Master of Science in Data Science online from Maryville University in as few as two years. Prepare to collect and analyze data, manage teams, and create data-driven strategies.
Learn MoreGRE Required | No |
Part Time | Yes |
9. University of Arizona
Tucson, AZThe master’s in data science program at the University of Arizona does not require applicants to submit GRE scores, but international students must turn in a TOEFL score. Two letters of recommendation are needed to apply. The deadline for the fall cohort 2024 is February 1. In-state students can expect to pay about $7,500 in annual tuition; out-of-state students will pay about $17,400 per year.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 21.80% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | DNP |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 35 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 100% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 969 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 100% |
10. University of Delaware
Newark, DEAt the University of Delaware, applicants have until February 1 to apply for its master of science in data science program. No standardized tests are required to be submitted, but international students must turn in a TOEFL score. Three letters of recommendation are needed. The program equips students with skills in probability and statistics, databases and data mining, machine learning, mathematics and computation, and ethics.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 21.88% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.4 |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 19 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 100% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 393 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 95.65% |
11. Appalachian State University
Boone, NCAppalachian State’s master of science in applied data analytics requires a GMAT or GRE score to apply, but waivers are available. Three letters of recommendation are needed, and international students must submit a TOEFL score. Four months post-program, graduates earn median pay of $74,000. The deadline to apply for the fall 2024 cohort is July 1.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 37.59% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.58 |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 51 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 98% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 133 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 98% |
12. University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, MNThe University of Minnesota’s master’s in data science program does not require applicants to submit standardized tests to meet its March 1 application deadline. Three letters of recommendation are needed, and international students must submit either a TOEFL or IELTS score.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 14% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.594 |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 65 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 73% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 513 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 90% |
13. Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OKOklahoma State University requires students to submit a GRE or GMAT for admission into its master’s program in business analytics and data science. A TOEFL score is required for most international students. Three letters of recommendation are needed. The application deadline for fall 2024 admission is January 15. Four months post-program, graduates earn base median pay of about $90,000.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 31.40% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.6 |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 115 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 100% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 235 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 94% |
Syracuse University MS in Applied Data Science Online
Our Updated Curriculum at Syracuse University Prepares You to Be a Leader in Data Science
Don't get left behind as the data science industry evolves. In as few as 18 months, earn your MS in Applied Data Science from Syracuse University, ranked #25 in Best Online Graduate Computer Information Technology Programs. Apply today to gain the analytical, technical and managerial expertise required to stand out in a competitive job market. No GRE required.
Learn MoreGRE Required | No |
Part Time | Yes |
14. University of Missouri
Columbia, MOAt the University of Missouri, standardized test results are not required but may be submitted for those applying to the master’s in data science and analytics program. No letters of recommendation are required, but two are suggested. International students from non-English speaking nations may be required to provide proof English language proficiency. Final admissions deadline is June 1 for the fall 2024 cohort. Tuition cost ranges from $575 to $1,325 per credit hour, depending on residency status.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 12.65% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.3 |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 49 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 78.26% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 166 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 93.30% |
15. Georgia State University
Atlanta, GAGeorge State’s data science and analytics master’s program does not require a GMAT or GRE score for admission—or letters of recommendation—but they may boost your application or make you eligible for certain scholarships. International students must provide an English proficiency score or meet the exceptions. Application deadline is July 1 for U.S. residents and March 18 for international students interested in enrolling in fall 2024. Graduates earn a median pay of $95,000 four-months post-graduation.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 37% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.38 |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 301 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 89% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 743 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 94% |
16. Maryville University
St. Louis, MOMaryville University’s data science master’s program does not require GRE or GMAT scores or letters of recommendation. But, for international students, a TOEFL score is needed. Annual tuition costs $28,800. For the fall 2024 cohort, the admissions process is rolling for U.S. residents, but the deadline is May 1 for international students.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 12% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.25 |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 65 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 91.70% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 215 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 90.00% |
17. University of Michigan--Dearborn
Dearborn, MIThe University of Michigan—Dearborn’s master of science in data science program does not require standardized testing to apply, but international students must turn in a TOEFL score. Two letters of recommendation are needed. The deadline to apply for the fall 2024 cohort is August 1 for domestic applicants and May 1 for those abroad. Annual tuition ranges from about $11,300 to $20,100, depending on residency.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 52.50% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.83 |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 138 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 68.50% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 305 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 95.50% |
18. New York Institute of Technology
New York, NYAt the New York Institute of Technology, international students must score and submit at least a 300 on the GRE and submit an English proficiency test result. Two letters of recommendation are needed to apply. Admissions deadlines are July 1 for international students and August 1 for U.S. residents.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 22% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.28 |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 123 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | DNP |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | DNP |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 93.10% |
Earn Your Master’s in Data Science Online From SMU
Want to pursue a top 3 job in the U.S.? Earn a M.S. online and become a data scientist with SMU
Designed for working professionals looking to advance their careers, DataScience@SMU is an online Master of Science in Data Science from Southern Methodist University. The program’s interdisciplinary curriculum prepares data science professionals to work with large datasets, analyze information and relate findings. The program blends live online classes, self-paced coursework and in-person learning experiences with classmates and faculty.
Learn MoreGRE Required | No |
Part Time | Yes |
19. University of San Francisco
San Francisco, CAThe University of San Francisco does not require students to submit standardized tests to apply, but proof of English proficiency is needed for international students. Two letters of recommendation are required. The deadline to apply for the fall 2024 cohort is March 1, and annual tuition is about $56,500.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 43% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.41 |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 84 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 92% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 467 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 92% |
20. DePaul University
Chicago, ILDePaul University’s data science master’s program is test and recommendation letter optional, but international students must submit a score of English proficiency. Annual tuition costs $47,736. The deadline to apply for the fall 2024 cohort is June 15 for international students and August 1 for U.S. residents.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 54.90% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.34 |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 319 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 51.80% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 1,088 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 94.60% |
21. Marquette University
Milwaukee, WIMarquette University recommends domestic students submit GRE score for admission into its master’s in data science program. International students must submit GRE and test of English proficiency score. Annual program tuition is $21,203. The deadline to apply for fall 2024 admission is August 1 for U.S. residents and June 1 for international students.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 55% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.01 |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 7 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 100% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 91 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 100% |
22. Willamette University
Salem, ORWillamette University does not require a GRE or GMAT score submission to apply for its master’s in data science program, but they can be submitted to supplement an application. Two letters of recommendation are needed, and international students must turn in a TOEFL score. Annual tuition costs $51,300. In-person classes are offered in the evening in both Portland and Salem, Oregon. Coursework includes machine learning with Python, data visualization, data engineering, and ethics and policy. The application deadline is March 15 for those abroad and May 15 for U.S. residents.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 46% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.3 |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 31 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 87% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 114 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 93% |
23. Rochester Institute of Technology
Rochester, NYRochester Institute of Technology has a rolling admission cycle for its master’s degree in data science program. GRE scores are only required for international students, who are also required to include a TOEFL score. Annual tuition is $49,770, and two letters of recommendation are needed to apply. Four months post-program, graduates earn $131,200 in base annual pay.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 59% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | DNP |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 78 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 92% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 478 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 95.50% |
Maryville University Master of Science in Data Science | Online
Model the future. Then make it your own with Maryville's Data Science program.
Earn your Master of Science in Data Science online from Maryville University in as few as two years. Prepare to collect and analyze data, manage teams, and create data-driven strategies.
Learn MoreGRE Required | No |
Part Time | Yes |
24. Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TXTexas Tech University’s master of science in data science program does not require students to submit GMAT or GRE scores, but they are encouraged. All international applicants must provide proof of English proficiency. Letters of recommendation are not required. Applications for the program’s summer 2024 cohort are due May 1; international students are recommended to apply six months in advance. Graduates earn $71,000 in median base pay four months post-program.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 59% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.37 |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 29 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 90% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 176 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 90% |
25. Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Worcester, MAThe Worcester Polytechnic Institute does not require standardized tests to be submitted to apply for its master of science in data science program, but three letters of recommendation are needed. Applicants seeking to attend WPI whose native language is not English must submit official TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores. Graduates four months post-program earn median pay of $117,500. Deadlines to apply for the fall 2024 cohort are April 1 or July 1, depending on applicants’ region.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 78% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.35 |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 49 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 83% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 211 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 95% |
26. University of St. Thomas
St. Paul, MNThe University of St. Thomas does not require standardized testing or letters of recommendation to apply for its master’s in data science program. TOEFL is needed for international students. Admission to its fall 2024 cohort is a rolling process, and courses cost $3,825 each.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 49.60% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | DNP |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 184 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 63.50% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 141 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 89% |
27. American University
Washington, DCAmerican University’s data science program is test optional and does not require any letters of recommendation to apply. However, for international students, a TOEFL score is needed. Tuition costs about $35,000 annually, and graduates earn a median base salary of $81,600 four months post-program. The deadline to apply for fall 2024 is February 15.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 85% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.48 |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 28 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 86% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 150 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 89% |
28. University of Maryland
College Park, MDThe University of Maryland’s master of professional studies in data science and analytics is standardized test option, but international students must submit a TOEFL score. No letters of recommendation are required for admission into the program, which costs $32,000 annually in tuition. The deadline to apply for the fall 2024 cohort for domestic students is June 14 and March 15 for those abroad.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 41.11% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | DNP |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 74 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | 81.30% |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 1389 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 66.70% |
Syracuse University MS in Applied Data Science Online
Our Updated Curriculum at Syracuse University Prepares You to Be a Leader in Data Science
Don't get left behind as the data science industry evolves. In as few as 18 months, earn your MS in Applied Data Science from Syracuse University, ranked #25 in Best Online Graduate Computer Information Technology Programs. Apply today to gain the analytical, technical and managerial expertise required to stand out in a competitive job market. No GRE required.
Learn MoreGRE Required | No |
Part Time | Yes |
29. CUNY Graduate Center
New York, NYCUNY Graduate Center’s master’s program in data science requires a GRE score for fall 2024 admission, and successful applicants are expected to place in and above the 80th percentile on the GRE quantitative portion. Two letters of recommendation are needed as well as a TOEFL score for international students. Applications are due April 15.
Acceptance rate, 2023-24 | 54.70% |
Average undergraduate GPA, 2023-24 enrollees | 3.64 |
Fall term enrollment, 2022–23 | 19 |
Graduation rate, 2022-23 | DNP |
Number of applicants in 2023-24 | 54 |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | DNP |
Earn Your Master’s in Data Science Online From SMU
Want to pursue a top 3 job in the U.S.? Earn a M.S. online and become a data scientist with SMU
Designed for working professionals looking to advance their careers, DataScience@SMU is an online Master of Science in Data Science from Southern Methodist University. The program’s interdisciplinary curriculum prepares data science professionals to work with large datasets, analyze information and relate findings. The program blends live online classes, self-paced coursework and in-person learning experiences with classmates and faculty.
Learn MoreGRE Required | No |
Part Time | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
Data science is one of the fastest growing fields—job openings are expected to grow by 35% by 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. And students graduating with a master’s in data science often land six figure salaries. The reason it's a fast growing field, with high paying jobs, is because companies across all industries want data-savvy professionals in this era of digitization. Data provides companies and organizations with the resources they need to make better decisions—and in turn, they need professionals with data science skills who know how to understand and analyze data.
The GPA you’ll need to get accepted into a master's program for data science varies by school. For all of the programs ranked by Fortune for 2024, the average undergraduate GPA for enrollees was 3.27. Students at Harvard and New York University had the highest GPA, with 3.87 and 3.75, respectively. Marquette University enrollees had the lowest reported GPA—at 3.01.
Master’s degree programs in data science can be offered in person, online or in a hybrid format—and that might be the difference in what the “best program” for you means. Fortune ranks the top five in-person programs for 2024 as: Harvard University, the University of North Texas, New York University, University of Michigan—Ann Arbor, and Carnegie Mellon University. Additionally, our ranking of the top five online programs in 2023 include: University of Southern California, UC—Berkeley, Bay Path University, New Jersey Institute of Technology, and Clemson University.
On average, it takes about one-and-a-half to two years to complete a master’s degree program in data science—with most programs requiring roughly anywhere from 25 to 60 credits to graduate. So it does depend on each individual program and whether you choose to be a full-time or part-time student. That said, thanks to a boost in salary and expanded career options, many students find it worthwhile to obtain a master’s degree in data science—and Gen Z considers the role of data scientist to be one of the most satisfying occupations.
A master’s degree in data science will teach you how to understand and analyze data. But because it's a recently defined career path, how it's applied can vary significantly. As Maurizio Porfiri, a New York University professor, told Fortune: “It’s a weird thing because it’s very vague. I discovered after a while that I had become a data scientist: people just started to refer to me as such.” But sometimes the first step to finding your place in the world of data science is picking a specialization—what type of problem you want to solve by using data. And a master’s degree can either help you find that specialization, or if you’ve already got the answer, will teach you the skills to pursue it.
Fortune compiled a list of seven universities that offer free online data science courses, which offers prospective students an opportunity to learn more about this field. Each university—Harvard University, the University of Michigan, UC Irvine, John Hopkins University, Columbia University, MIT, and Duke University—offers a different course, from linear regression to data science ethics to data science in real life. However, the common goal of these free courses is to give people an inside look into the field.
In 2022, data scientists earned median salaries of $103,500, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. But a degree from a top program might mean even more money; New York University's (ranked third on Fortune’s best in-person data science programs) 2022-23 graduates with a master’s in data science earned an average salary of $143,000 four months after graduation, according to data provided by the university.