Best Universities for MS in Data Science in USA in 2025-26

It wouldn’t be wrong if we say Data Science has become the fuel for today’s industries. It powers almost anything, from customer experience to innovation to the healthcare industry. It has immense potential to enhance the way we live our lives, work, and enjoy. Importantly, it has the ability to empower in decision-making process, solve critical issues, and discover new advancements.

When it comes to studying data science in a foreign country, certainly the USA comes at the top of the list. The demand for master's degree holders in data science professionals has grown exponentially in the last few years. With many 151 top-rated universities in the United States offering programs in this discipline. Therefore, studying in the USA, especially data science is the most sought-after among international students.   

Career in Data Science in the USA: A Brief Outlook

With an MS degree in data science from one of the top universities in the USA, you can be a part of this rapid transformation. Thus, choosing data science not only means becoming an expert in making positive transformations, but also as a data scientist, one can provide business leaders, tech-geeks,s and experts with the invaluable info they need to make correct decisions, improve their businesses forward, drive changes in societies, and much, much more.

It can be said without any shred of a doubt that an MS in data science in the USA offers numerous advantages and opportunities for international students. Let’s see why study in USA, especially data science as a career.

World Class Education - The United States is the destination for some of the most prestigious academic institutions in the world, providing international students with a strong foundation in data science, as well as access to cutting-edge training, development, and research facilities.

STEM-based Learning – Bachelors or masters courses in the United States focus on STEM-based learning, such as Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Therefore, equip students with the required skills in the industry, so that they can excel in the data science field.

Post-study Work Permits – This is one of the most important aspects international students see when they plan to study in USA. Higher study aspirants studying in the USA can apply for post-study work permits, which can go up to 3 years after completing their studies. This helps them get opportunities to work in the industry or domain they choose. They get valuable insights working on real-world projects.

On-campus, Part-time Work Opportunities – On-campus or part-time work opportunities are huge in the United States. As an international student, you are entitled to work up to 20 hours per week while studying a full-time course in data science. It also allows you to gain practical experience, and offset your living expenditures.

Best Universities for MS in Data Science in the USA

Let’s delve into the fascinating world of data science with these top ten Universities in the USA. These universities are known all around the world for academic excellence in the field of data science. 

Fees for MS in Data Science in the USA

MS in data science in the USA fees are comparatively higher than average. The fees range from USD 12,000 to 30,000. Other expenditures, like medical insurance, educational supplies, accommodation, food, etc. are not included in the above-mentioned range. The cost of expenses excluding the tuition fees can cost between USD 8,000 to 10,000 per year.

Eligibility Criteria for MS in Data Science in the USA

Here are the eligibility criteria for the Master of Science in Data Science program in the United States.

• BSc/BS degree in CS, Statistics, Mathematics, Economics, Engineering, or its related field
• Statement of Purpose
• Letters of recommendations
• GRE Score
• 2 to 3 years of work experience, but not applicable for all universities
• English language proficiency tests, like TOEFL, PTE, or IELTS

Subjects Taught in MS in Data Science

Data Science is an interdisciplinary subject developed by the expert faculties of the Universities. A few subjects or curricula vary from University to University, but the overall is the same. You will have to study the following subjects:

• Machine learning
• Business Analytics
• Data visualization
• Deep learning
• Statistics
• Artificial intelligence
• Big data
• Natural language processing
• R programming, and a lot more

MS in data science in the USA without a GRE

Many students ask whether studying MS in Data Science in the USA without a GRE is possible. The answer is “yes”, it is possible, but not all top universities in the USA offer the course without a GRE score, there are some good universities that offer a Master in Science Program in Data Science without a GRE. Here are some of the universities:

• Boston University
• Georgia Mason University
• the University of Bridgeport
• The University of Pittsburgh
• California State University
• The University of North Texas
• San Jose State University
• University of Illinois

Putting It Altogether

The pursuit of an MS in Data Science in the USA for international students promises a world of ample opportunities. A recent survey has revealed that 100% of data science graduates from all top universities in the USA get employment within 6 months of graduation. The amount that highly skilled and experienced data science professionals can earn is up to USD 250k and the fact is – out of the 50 best professions in the entire United States data science ranks no. 3 for a successful career, salary, and other opportunities.

Now you can imagine why MS in data science in the USA is the most demanding degree these days. If you still have questions about which University in the USA would be the best for your career in data science, get in touch with Education Vibes today!

Our expert guidance will help you choose the best University to pursue your dream career in data science. Look no further!