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An online master's in data science prepares you to work at the crossroads of mathematics and computer science. Explore how this degree can prepare you for an in-demand career.
Explore data science degrees
Why earn a master's in data science?
Explore careers in different fields
Organizations across industries collect and analyze data, so there are many different ways for a data scientist to make an impact.
Gain critical data knowledge
Master the skills to manage, visualize, and interpret data in different contexts.
Join a fast-growing field
Businesses depend on skilled data scientists to gather valuable insights and develop action plans for decision-making.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the need for data scientists to grow by 36% between 2023 and 2033. The BLS also reports that these professionals earned a median annual salary of $112,590 as of May 2024. An online master's in data science can train you in the latest in-demand knowledge and skills.
Dive into what makes an online master's in data science a wise investment.
Browse accredited online data science master's programs
What to expect from a master's in data science
An online master's in data science features a rigorous curriculum. Before committing to a program, compare . The latter may better align with your education and career goals if you want to focus on AI and machine learning.
Curriculum
At the master's level, required courses may include:
- Data structures and algorithms
- Probability and inference
- Regression and predictive modeling
- Deep learning
- Machine learning
The latter two courses on this list emphasize recent AI advances. Consider programs that offer these courses if you want an online master's in data science program that can prepare you to work with AI.
With electives, you can further tailor your education to your career goals. Your program may offer electives in:
- Principles of data science
- Optimization
- Reinforcement learning
Program outcomes
An online master's can do more than increase your salary potential. The curriculum may also help you:
- Master new programming languages.
- Learn the latest advances in AI and machine learning.
- Heighten your problem-solving skills.
- Improve your communication skills.
- Adapt to new technologies.
A master's degree program may also qualify you for management-level positions. In a management role, you can use your knowledge, skills, and experience to mentor junior employees. Typical with an online master's in data science include:
- Software engineer
- Data modeler
- Data analyst
Admissions requirements
Online master's in data science programs' admissions requirements vary by university. Typical requirements include:
- A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0
- An academic background in computer programming and applied math
- A personal statement
- A current résumé
- Recommendation letters
Some programs require applicants to have a . If you have a bachelor's in another field, see if you can substitute education with relevant experience. The university may also offer a bridge program so you can and skills before starting the degree.
Tuition and financial aid
Expect online master's in data science programs to charge a per-credit tuition rate. This degree can cost $10,000-$200,000, depending on the university and how long it takes to graduate. You can reduce your tuition burden in many ways, such as by applying for:
- Federal grants
- Private scholarships
- Institutional aid
Your employer may offer tuition reimbursement. Through these programs, your employer pays your tuition as long as you agree to remain with the organization for a set period of time after graduation. Speak with a manager or human resources specialist to learn whether your employer offers tuition reimbursement.
What jobs can you get with a master's in data science?
Graduates of online master's in data science programs can apply their skills in countless ways. Data scientists extract insights from data sets using advanced tools like technology. Nearly any organization that prioritizes efficiency, customer relationships, and business goals can benefit from hiring a skilled data scientist. Below are some common characteristics of data science roles:
Work settings
Most data scientists work full time in an office setting.
Responsibilities
Their daily duties include collecting, categorizing, and analyzing data; creating and testing algorithms; visualizing data; presenting findings; and consulting with stakeholders.
Similar roles
, , and share similarities with data science.
Salary expectations for data science professionals
Since there are many different career options for master's in data science graduates, earning potential varies. Your salary as a data scientist depends on several factors, including your industry, previous work experience, employer, and location.
According to the BLS, data scientists earned a median annual salary of $112,590 in 2024. The lowest 10% of data scientists earned less than $63,650, while the highest 10% earned more than $194,410. Top-paying fields include:
- Scientific research and development services
- Computer systems design
- Management of companies and enterprises
- Insurance carriers
- Management, scientific, and technical consulting services
Career outlook for data science professionals
The BLS projects data science jobs to increase by 35% between 2022 and 2032, much faster than the average growth rate for all occupations. This growth is likely due to increasing demand across industries for data-driven decision-making.
As our digital footprint grows, so does the amount of data. As a result, organizations will likely rely on data scientists to mine and interpret these large sets of quantitative and qualitative data.
Frequently asked questions
Not ready to start a full Master's program yet?
Earn a MicroMasters? program certificate instead! MicroMasters programs are a series of graduate-level courses from top universities designed to advance your career. MicroMasters program certificates showcase deep learning and in-demand skills to employers and can help you get started on a path toward completing an advanced degree.
Last updated July 15, 2025