MS in Data Science in the USA: A Comprehensive Guide
Data science is the scientific study of mining, extracting, and processing data to gain valuable insights to make decisions, solve problems, and optimise operations. It is a multidisciplinary field that involves the basics of computer programming, mathematics, machine learning, statistics, and engineering.
Data science has applications in several fields, such as healthcare, business management, finance, entertainment, manufacturing, transportation, and government sectors.
If you are enthusiastic about developing a foundation in this field, consider pursuing an MS in Data Science in the USA for several reasons, which we have discussed in this blog, along with top universities, course structure, and career prospects.
- Why Pursue an MS in Data Science in the USA?
- Top Universities for Data Science in the USA
- MS in Data Science in the USA: Course Structure & Subjects
- Eligibility Criteria for MS in Data Science in the USA
- Documents Checklist for University Application Process
- How to Apply for MS in Data Science in the USA?
- Data Science Jobs in the USA for Indian Students
- Key Takeaways by AdmitX
- FAQs
Why Pursue an MS in Data Science in the USA?
- A master’s in data science in the USA is particularly for those who want to gain advanced knowledge and skills to help industries and organisations make crucial decisions and solve their problems.Â
- The USA houses the world’s largest number of prestigious universities that are popular for providing cutting-edge technology, top-notch education, and exposure to global experience throughout the program.
- The demand for data scientists is high and will continue to increase in the future, creating opportunities for Indians to leverage their potential by mastering data science concepts.
- Indian students in the USA pursuing STEM subjects are eligible for the OPT extension, under which they are liable to stay in the country for an additional 24 months to get professional experience.
Top Universities for Data Science in the USA
We have tabulated the best universities for data science courses in the USA along with their QS World University Rankings 2024 (data science & AI), degree name, duration, and total tuition fees in 2025.Â
| University | QS Ranking 2024 (data science & AI) | Degree Name | Duration | Total Tuition Fees 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carnegie Mellon University | 2 | MS in Data Analytics in Science | 9 Months | USD 50,000 |
| Harvard University | 5 | Master’s in Data Science | 18 Months | USD 95,436 |
| University of Washington | 12 | Master of Science in Data Science | 18 Months | USD 51,300 |
| Georgia Institute of Technology | 13 | Master of Science in Analytics | 18 Months | USD 58,519 |
| Cornell University | 16 | MPS Data Science & Applied Statistics | 12 Months | USD 44,768 |
| New York University | 17 | Master’s in Data Science | 24 Months | USD 80,748 |
| University of Pennsylvania | 20 | MSE in Data Science | 18 Months | USD 81,750 |
| John Hopkins University | 21 | MSE in Data Science | 18 Months | USD 97,095 |
| University of Maryland | 33 | Master of Science in Data Science | 18 Months | USD 41,460 |
| University of Chicago | 35 | MS in Applied Data Science | 12-18 Months | USD 71,604 |
MS in Data Science in the USA: Course Structure & Subjects
- The curriculum of data science courses in the USA is designed to inculcate the depth of knowledge and skills Indian students require for a successful career.
- Students are required to complete the required number of credits or units to earn a degree in data science.Â
- Throughout the program, students can participate in classroom discussions, group assignments, and internships to gain expertise in data analysis, programming, data visualisation, machine learning, software engineering, machine design, etc.Â
Core Subjects
- Data Mining & Data Visualisation
- Software Design
- Data Management
- Introduction to Statistics & Probability
- Statistical Machine Learning
- Computational Modeling
- Critical Thinking in Data Science
- Machine Learning
- Programming for Data Science
- Data Structures & Algorithms
Elective Subjects
- Data Engineering
- Business Analytics
- Deep Learning
- Natural Language Processing (NLP)
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Ethics & Privacy
- Big Data
- Reinforcement Learning
- Time Series Analysis
Capstone Projects
The capstone projects are available in the final semester of the program, during which students are required to conduct research and analysis on the topics provided by the faculty. It allows them to apply the theoretical knowledge and skills gained throughout the program to solve real-world problems.
Eligibility Criteria for MS in Data Science in the USA
The following are the general eligibility criteria for enrolling in data science courses in the USA.Â
Academic Requirements
Indian students must have completed
- 4 years of bachelor’s degree program in the following fields
- Biology
- Physics
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Engineering
- Applicants can contact the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) to have an evaluation if the duration of their completed bachelor’s degree is 3 years.
- The average GPA should be around 2.5-3.5
- Applicants must have sufficient background knowledge of
- Calculus
- Probability
- Statistics
- Linear Algebra
- Programming Languages such as Python, R, or C++
- Basic understanding of computer science concepts
English Language Proficiency Requirements
- The English language proficiency requirements might vary depending on the university.Â
- These requirements can be waived provided that applicants have completed their undergraduate degree program in the institution where the mode of instruction was English.
| Test | Minimum Score/Band |
|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 80-106 |
| IELTS | 6.5-7.5 |
| Duolingo | 125-135 |
GRE Requirements
Many universities do not accept the GRE scores as a part of their application process.
Documents Checklist for University Application Process
- Certified copies of Academic Documents
- Class XII marksheet
- Class XII passing certificate
- School leaving certificate
- Transfer certificate
- UG marksheets of all years
- UG degree certificate
- UG passing certificate
- Migration Certificate
- College/university leaving certificate
- Proof of English language proficiency (TOEFL iBT/IELTS Academics/Duolingo)
- 2-3 letters of recommendation
- 1-2 statements of purpose/essays
- 1 CV
- Passport
- 1-2 documentary proofs of expertise in computer science and mathematics
- Certificate for extracurricular activities (if any)
How to Apply for MS in Data Science in the USA?
- Refer to the table that we have provided above to shortlist the universities based on your preferences, such as course duration and tuition fees. Enlist at least 8 universities.
- Visit their official websites and check the details such as course overview, admission requirements, program requirements, curriculum, location, career outcomes, class profile, etc.
- Based on the above factors, shortlist 4-5 universities and start applying for the MS in Data Science course.
- You can apply for the program when the application window is open.
- Visit the website and start applying by completing the registration process.
- Fill out the application details that are asked on the website.
- Upload the documents and pay the application fee, if required.
- Review and submit the application.
- After submitting the application process, wait for the university’s response.
- The university will send a provisional offer letter.
- To get a confirmed offer letter, you are required to send financial documents via courier, like the last 6 months’ income tax return and bank statement, depending on the university.
- After sending these documents, you will receive an I-20 certificate and the confirmed offer letter.
- Now, proceed to the visa application process.
Data Science Jobs in the USA for Indian Students
Some of the popular data science jobs in the USA are tabulated below, along with their annual average salary. The average salary of a data science graduate at entry level is around USD 70,000-150,000 or INR 59 Lakhs-1.29 Crore per year, depending on the employer, job post, location, previous professional experiences, etc.
| Job Post | Average Salary (Per Year) |
|---|---|
| Data Analyst | USD 94,000-100,000 (INR 79 Lakhs-84 Lakhs) |
| Data Scientist | USD 70,000-100,000 (INR 59 Lakhs-84 Lakhs) |
| Machine Learning Engineer | USD 99,000-100,000 (INR 83 Lakhs-84 Lakhs) |
| AI Learning Specialist | USD 77,000-100,000 (INR 65 Lakhs-84 Lakhs) |
| Data Architect | USD 100,000-200,000 (INR 84 Lakhs-1.69 Crore) |
Key Takeaways by AdmitX
The era of data science, data analytics, and artificial intelligence has just begun, and they have abundant possibilities for growth. With time, organisations, including private sector companies and public bodies, continue to rely on data to gain insights, which facilitates them in enhancing their operations and productivity.
Pursuing an MS in Data Science in the USA can align the aspiration of individuals to become experts in harnessing the power of data.
FAQs
Which universities are best for pursuing a Master's in Data Science in the USA?
Carnegie Mellon University, Harvard University, University of Washington, Georgia Institute of Technology, Cornell University, etc., are some of the best universities to pursue an MS in Data Science in the USA.
Is GRE required for MS in Data Science in the USA?
Depending on the university, Indian applicants are not required to appear in the GRE. Instead of relying on standardised test scores, most universities evaluate academic backgrounds, essays, letters of recommendation, etc.Â
How much does an MS in Data Science cost in the USA?
The total cost of data science programs in the USA is around USD 50,000-75,000 or INR 42 Lakhs-63 Lakhs, excluding living costs.
What is the salary after a Master's in Data Science in the USA?
The average salary of a fresher data science graduate is around USD 70,000-150,000 or INR 59 Lakhs-1.29 Crore per year, depending on the employer, job post, location, previous professional experiences, etc.
What is the cost of living in the USA for Indian students?
For Indian students, the cost of living in the USA is around USD 15,000-29,000 or INR 12 Lakhs-24 Lakhs per year, depending on the location and lifestyle preferences.
