MS in Data Science in the US
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An MS in Data Science is among the top sought-after degrees for international students in the USA. Currently, 69 universities in the US offer the course as an MS degree. It is a 2-year program that equips you with advanced data-related skills, such as processing, analyzing, creating, and extracting data for the growth of business in various domains.
If you are planning to study MS in Data Science in the US, read on, as we discuss the eligibility, top universities, cost of study, job prospects, and so on related with MS in Data Science in the US.
Top US universities for MS in Data Science
According to the latest rankings, the following are the top US universities for MS in Data Science with their average annual fees:
| University | Yearly fees |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 30,000 USD |
| Carnegie Mellon University | 50,000 USD |
| University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | 25,000 USD |
| Harvard University | 54,000 USD |
| University of Washington | 50,000 USD |
| Princeton University | 60,000 USD |
| Georgia Institute of Technology | 54,000 USD |
| Cornell University | 65,000 USD |
| University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | 26,000 USD |
| California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | 61,000 USD |
Yearly fees for MS in Data Science in other top US universities
| University | Yearly fees |
| Stanford University | 21,000 USD |
| University of Chicago | 34,000 USD |
| University of Pennsylvania | 34,000 USD |
| Yale University | 48,000 USD |
| Columbia University | 50,000 USD |
MS in Data Science in the USA – Specializations
Having an MS in Data Science, according to sources across the web, provides opportunities to widen the subject knowledge to assist multiple fields of study. US universities offer specialized, often interdisciplinary MS in Data Science that students can utilize their expertise in different areas of service.
Some of the prominent specializations in Data Science Master’s in the US universities include the following:
- Statistics
- Database Design and Management
- Software Development
- Data Warehousing.
- Business Intelligence.
- Machine Learning
- Data Optimization
- Big Data Systems Engineering
- Advanced Architecture Design
- Business Analysis
- Data Mining
Eligibility criteria for MS in Data Science in the USA
Applicants for MS in Data Science must follow the basic entry requirements for MS applications in the US, that is, a US equivalent undergraduate degree and relevant admission documents, including the F-1 visa. Apart from that, keep in mind the following:
- Students must have studied a quantitative discipline, such as math, physics, or economics in their undergraduate
- It is mandatory to demonstrate knowledge of statistics, programming, and probability in the application for MS in Data Science
- If you are from non-traditional background, you must have valid work experience to be considered for admission.
Documents required for MS in the USA
When you plan your application for MS in Data Science in a US university, make sure you check with your desired university’s website for a customized checklist of documents. Here is a list of documents that you must have while making your application:
- 3 – 4 years bachelor’s degree certificate, with minimum 65% – 70% scores
- GRE scorecard – minimum 290 marks is needed for admission
- Minimum 2 letters of recommendation
- A Statement of Purpose (SoP) that explains your motivation, future plans, and learning potential
- Proof of English language proficiency – IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, etc.
- Visa documents – passport, proof of funds, Form I-20, DS-160, etc.
Cost of study in USA for MS in Data Science
The cost of study for MS in Data Science in the USA includes the university tuition fee, study-related costs (books, lab, laptop, etc.) and the cost of living. The average cost of living includes rent, food, transportation, basic amenities, entertainment, etc.
- In the US, the average cost for MS in Data Science can be up to 21,000 – 65,000 USD as your tuition fee.
- On an average, it costs around 36,000 USD for an international student to meet the cost of living in the USA.
In short, it costs you around 57,000 – 101,000 USD to study in the US for an MS in Data Science degree.
Job prospects and salary in the USA for MS in Data Science
MS in Data Science is considered to be a course with ample job opportunities for international students.
The table below shows the job roles after graduating MS in the US with their average salary, according to Glassdoor data:
| Job title | Job description | Mean salary |
| Data Scientist | Collect, process, and analyze all the data, understand what is important for the business and visualize and present it. | 1,44,000 USD |
| Data Engineer | Cluster, categorize, and classify the data and stay up to date with novel trends and findings in the field. Monitor the system’s performance in a timely. | 1,18,000 USD |
| Business Analyst | Identify and separate high-value data from low-value data and provide valuable insights for business growth. | 85,000 USD |
| Machine Learning Engineer | Cluster, categorize, and classify the data and stay up to date with novel trends and findings in the field. Monitor the system’s performance timely. | 1,50,000 USD |
| Machine Learning Scientist | Research new approaches for data manipulation and building algorithms. They often work in academia rather than in industries. | 1,65,000 USD |
| Software Engineer | Design, develop, and maintain software systems. Develop data that data scientists can use. | 1,13,000 USD |
| Data Analyst | Visualize, transform, and manipulate the data in favor of the business growth. Track web analytics and perform A/B analysis. | 78,000 USD |
| Data Architect | Design and create new database systems for the company’s business model. | 1,78,000 USD |
| Statistician | Establish and utilize statistical techniques and theories to collect, analyze, and interpret data. | 95,000 USD |
| Technology Specialized roles | Existing and emerging roles in the industry, such as AI specialists, deep learning, NLP (Natural Language Processing), etc. | 1,00,000 USD |
If you are passionate about MS in Data Science, studying in the USA is the best choice you can make, given the advanced curriculum and enhanced job prospects of the course. An MS in Data Science from a US university is considered among the best in the world. Carefully go through the details mentioned in the blog and plan your journey to the US with confidence.
However, often the cost of study in the US for an MS in Data Science is not affordable to everyone. Such students may look for smart financing options, such as scholarships or education loans. If you are looking for guidance regarding funding options for MS in Data Science in the US, take advantage of the opportunity right now – check out the link and get in touch with us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to study in the USA for MS in Data Science without GRE scores?
Yes. Some US universities allow international students to study in the US for MS in Data Science without GRE scores. However, it is mandatory to check the university’s website and confirm before applying.
What is the minimum GPA requirement for MS in Data Science in the US?
The minimum GPA to apply for MS in Data Science in the US is 2.5 – 3.5 out of 5, depending on the university of admission.
How to write an SoP to get admission in the US to MS in Data Science?
Make sure you express your strong motivation to study MS in Data Science. Elaborate on why the US and not India, and mention relevant work experiences and skills and certifications.
Is a four-years bachelor’s degree mandatory to study MS in the US?
Generally, a four-years bachelor’s degree is required to apply for MS in Data Science in the US. However, many US universities accept a three-years old bachelor’s degree with or without the need for a one-year additional program. It’s suggested that you check the website of your desired universities.
What is the minimum IELTS score required to study MS in Data Science in the US?
6.5 – 7 bands is the minimum IELTS score required to study MS in Data Science in the US.
Adwaidh
Updated on August 22, 2025
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