Study Master's in Data Science in the USA
Learn everything you need to know about studying Master data science in the USA like the world-class education, advanced technology, and global career opportunities.
The USA provides a unique opportunity for students passionate about data science. It is home to 100+ renowned universities with top-class educational resources related to the Data Science and Information Technology field.
With the increasing application of data science technology in various fields, more students are attracted to this expanding industry due to its functional and practical job prospects.
If you, too, want to build your career and become a skilled data scientist, pursuing an MS in Data Science in the USA is an excellent choice.
Why Study a Master’s (MS) in Data Science in the USA?
There are various reasons why international students should choose to study Master’s in Data Science in the USA. Some of them are given below:
- Career choices: The USA has many big companies offering exciting, abundant job opportunities to students after completing the course.
- Top Rankings: According to the QS World University Rankings, the USA has the top three renowned universities in the world, which provide stellar programmes necessary to excel in the data science sector.
- Innovative Learning: American universities rank high in offering the latest tools and resources required to excel in the data science field.
- Safety and Quality of Life: Living conditions are of prior importance for students going abroad, and the USA scores well in this field. Cities like New York and San Francisco hold positions in the top 30 of the QS Best Student Cities Ranking 2025.
Eligibility to Study Master's in Data Science in the USA
The requirements for admission to a Master’s in Data Science in the USA are listed below.
Academic Requirements
- A 4-year Bachelor's degree Computer Science, Statistics, Economics, or Engineering, or equivalent, is generally required to apply for a Master’s in Data Science in the USA.
- Candidates must submit their GRE scores secured to the university they are considering to apply.
Language Proficiency Requirements
All internationla student must show their English proficiency through standard tests like TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic or other accepted language proficiency tests.
Documentation Required
To get into this programme, you need to submit the following documents:
- Statement of Purpose: A Statement of Purpose (SOP) describing your background and motivation to pursue this course
- Letter of Recommendation: A minimum of 2-3 letters of recommendation from your previous educational institution.
- Work Experience: Some programmes, not all, may require relevant work experience.
Visa Requirements
Once the university accepts your application, then you must confirm enrollment before the deadline and begin the student visa process as early as possible.
Admission Process to Study MS in Data Science in the USA
Applying for a Master's in Data Science in the USA involves several steps. Here’s a quick guide to help you through the process:
- Research Courses and Universities: Find the universities and programmes that match your career goals and interests in data science.
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you have a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Economics, or Engineering and meet all the other specified admission criteria for internaitonal students.
- Gather Documents: Academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, SOP, GRE scores, and proof of English proficiency are necessary.
- Apply: Submit your university application online to your chosen universities and upload all required documents.
- Interviews: Prepare and appear for the student interviews with the respective universities on the scheduled date.
- Apply for Visa: Once you receive an acceptance letter, confirm your enrollment and start the student visa application process.
International students should keep some points in mind during the enrolment process:
- Understanding Requirements: Make sure to figure out what documents and information are needed.
- Submitting Documents: Ensure all required documents meet the university standards.
- Visa Application: Make sure to have your visa paperwork ready for interviews.
Top Universities in the USA for MS in Data Science
Here is the list of the top universities in the USA for MS in data science:
| University Name | QS Subject Ranking: Data Science 2025 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge | #1 |
| Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh | #2 |
| University of California - Berkeley, Berkeley | #4 |
| Harvard University, Cambridge | #6 |
| Yale University, New Haven | #9 |
| New York University, New York City | =13 |
| University of Washington, Seattle | =13 |
| Cornell University, Ithica | =15 |
| Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta | =15 |
| University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign, Champaign | #21 |
Cost of Studying MS in Data Science in the USA for International Students
To understand the cost of pursuing an MS in Data Science in the USA, here is the breakdown:
- Tuition fees: Most of the courses in a master's degree are for two years. Therefore, if we combine and calculate the cost of both years, it can range from US $35,000 - $95,000 per year.
- Living Expense: The cost of living in the USA can differ depending on the city and your lifestyle. On average, the living cost of a student varies between US $18,000 - $42,000 per year, for housing, food, transportation, and other daily expenses.
- Accommodation Cost: The cost of housing in the USA varies depending on the city and type of accommodation and can range between US $12,000 - $22,000 per year, on average.
- Other Expenses: In addition to living costs, students should also budget for other expenses, which can include:
- Books and Supplies: The cost of reading materials differs from course to course which can range from US $500 - $1,500 per year.
- Health Insurance: The amount differs according to the plan and coverage and can range from US $2,500 - $5,400 per year.
- Personal Expenses: Costs for entertainment, clothing, and other personal items, which can vary widely from person to person and can range from US $2,000 - $4,000 per year.
- Visa Fees: Costs associated with obtaining a student visa depending on your home country and the type of visa. The one-time cost for a US student visa can total to US $535.
Career Opportunities After Studying Master (MS) in Data Science in the USA
A Master’s in Data Science USA opens the door to many fulfilling career opportunities. Here are some possible job roles in the field of data science:
| Job Role | Average Salary (in USD) |
| Data Scientist | US $95,000 - $130,000 |
| Data Analyst | US $70,000 - $95,000 |
| Machine Learning Engineer | US $110,000 - $140,000 |
| Data Engineer | US $100,000 - $130,000 |
| Data Architect | US $130,000 - $150,000 |
Sources: US Bureau of Labour Statistics
Selecting the USA is an excellent choice for aspiring data science students. This country has the best educational resources for students seeking opportunities to make a career in this field. Also, access to the latest research labs and faculty allows students studying there to work on projects and contribute to significant advancements in data science. Contact AECC today to start your journey towards a world-class education. Contact us now to discover your options and start your journey toward a brighter future!