Data Science: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Data Science is an interdisciplinary field that integrates statistical analysis, computational methods, and domain-specific knowledge to extract meaningful insights from structured and unstructured data. This program equips learners with the technical and analytical capabilities to manage, analyze, and interpret complex datasets across diverse industries.
- Statistical Modeling: Applying probability theory and inferential statistics to build predictive models and assess data reliability.
- Machine Learning: Developing algorithms that enable systems to learn from data, identify patterns, and make data-driven decisions without explicit programming.
- Data Visualization: Transforming complex data sets into intuitive visual formats—charts, graphs, and dashboards—to support strategic decision-making.
- Big Data Technologies: Utilizing scalable frameworks like Hadoop and Spark to process and analyze large volumes of data in real time.
- Programming for Data Analysis: Mastering languages such as Python and R to clean, manipulate, and analyze data efficiently.
- Database Systems: Designing and managing relational and non-relational databases to ensure data integrity, security, and efficient retrieval.
- Ethics and Data Governance: Addressing privacy, bias, transparency, and regulatory compliance in data collection, storage, and usage.
Data Science Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Data Science Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Data Science degrees, including Natural Sciences Managers, Computer and Information Research Scientists and Database Architects. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 618,890 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Sciences Managers 11-9121 | $161,180 | $79,830 - $239,200 | 100,870 | $77.49 |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists 15-1221 | $140,910 | $80,670 - $232,120 | 38,480 | $67.74 |
| Database Architects 15-1243 | $135,980 | $81,630 - $209,990 | 64,770 | $65.37 |
| Data Scientists 15-2051 | $112,590 | $63,650 - $194,410 | 233,440 | $54.13 |
| Statisticians 15-2041 | $103,300 | $60,390 - $170,700 | 29,800 | $49.66 |
| Postsecondary Teachers, All Other 25-1199 | $78,490 | $39,720 - $172,850 | 151,530 | N/A |
Data Science Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $82,165 in Wyoming to $148,030 in California—a 80% difference. The highest-paying states include California, Massachusetts, and Washington. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 618,890 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Data Science by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 9 institutions offering Data Science programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Data Science is found at Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech), Main Campus (15 graduates), New York University (NYU) (10 graduates), Meharry Medical College (6 graduates), Western Washington University (WWU) (5 graduates), and American University (AU) (4 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 48 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) |
Postbac Cert.
|
15 | Atlanta, Georgia | Public | gatech.edu |
| New York University (NYU) |
Postbac Cert.
|
10 | New York, New York | Private | nyu.edu |
| Meharry Medical College |
Master's
|
6 | Nashville, Tennessee | Private | mmc.edu |
| Western Washington University (WWU) |
Postbac Cert.
|
5 | Bellingham, Washington | Public | wwu.edu |
| American University (AU) |
Bachelor's
|
4 | Washington, District of Columbia | Private | american.edu |
| Morgan State University (MSU) |
Bachelor's
|
3 | Baltimore, Maryland | Public | morgan.edu |
| Community College of Philadelphia (CCP) |
Other Award
|
3 | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | Public | ccp.edu |
| University of New Hampshire (UNH) |
Postbac Cert.
|
1 | Durham, New Hampshire | Public | unh.edu |
| The University of Tennessee |
Postbac Cert.
|
1 | Knoxville, Tennessee | Public | utk.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Data Science programs
How much can I earn with a Data Science degree?
Salaries for Data Science graduates vary by role and location. Natural Sciences Managers earn a median of $161,180 annually, while Computer and Information Research Scientists earn around $140,910. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in California average $148,030 compared to $82,165 in Wyoming. Approximately 618,890 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Data Science programs?
Currently 9 accredited institutions offer Data Science degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech), Main Campus (15 graduates), New York University (NYU) (10 graduates), and Meharry Medical College (6 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
What career paths are available with a Data Science degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Natural Sciences Managers, Computer and Information Research Scientists, and Database Architects. Related occupations employ approximately 618,890 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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