Online Master of Science in Data Science
Impact the Future with Data-Informed Decisions
Businesses around the world are adopting data-informed processes and creating a fast-growing demand for data science professionals. Take a direct path to transformative career opportunities with the online Master of Science in Data Science degree from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota.
This online program utilizes an interdisciplinary approach to your data science education with flexible, online courses that explore the latest machine learning tools, artificial intelligence (AI) applications, and data engineering concepts. With insights from experienced faculty, you’ll learn to extract, analyze, and transform complex data sets to make effective decisions in business and technology. The degree is geared toward technical professionals, engineers, and aspiring data scientists.
Take the exciting next step on your career path with Saint Mary’s University.
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Advance Your Potential in Data Science
With the online M.S. in Data Science program, you’ll gain immediately applicable skills for a competitive workforce, plus hands-on experience working with today’s latest computer technologies, AI applications, and statistical analysis tools. The interdisciplinary curriculum is designed to provide you with the analytical and technical skills demanded by high-impact data science employers.
Program Highlights
- Learn to build systems that generate predictive intelligence
- No GRE or GMAT score required
- 100% online coursework
- Python, R, ML Focus
- Transfer up to 6 credits
Course Requirements
The curriculum for the online M.S. in Data Science program requires you to complete 10 courses for a total of 30 credits. Courses deliver an expert-level skillset in database design, business modeling, cloud architecture, data engineering, and Python programming.
Specialize with Graduate Certificates
Choose from a selection of graduate certificate programs designed to accelerate your degree and help you achieve your goals faster. Complete additional courses with your master’s degree to earn an extra credential while saving time and money. Choose from the following graduate certificate options:
Share Your Success
Saint Mary’s supports your success by providing you with the tools necessary to not only achieve your professional goals but to share them with the world—especially on a digital platform.
As part of our commitment, Saint Mary’s offers you the opportunity to earn digital badges. These respected credentials are a visual verification of your achievement upon completing a specific online course or program.
Admissions
Saint Mary’s online Master of Science in Data Science program requires the following:
- An undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution
- A minimum GPA of 2.75 on a 4.00 scale (if your overall GPA is below 2.75, you may receive provisional status in the program at the discretion of the M.S. BIDA program director)
- The language proficiency to succeed in graduate-level classes
No prerequisite coursework or experience is required for the online M.S. in Data Science program.
GMAT and GRE scores are not required.
You can transfer six credits you’ve earned before admittance to Saint Mary’s.
Transfer credits are subject to graduate school and program criteria, as well as the program director’s recommendation and dean’s approval.
Also, note that work experience is not accepted as credit for this program.
Students with transcripts from universities located outside of the United States, unless from a waiver country listed here, are required to take and pass English Proficiency testing.
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) with a minimum score of 72
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS) with a minimum score of 6.0
- Michigan Language Assessment Battery (MELAB) with a minimum score of 74%
- International Test of English Proficiency (ITEP) with a minimum score of 4.0 or Pearson Test of English with a score of 51
- Duolingo with a minimum score of 105
Whether you apply through our online application, via hard copy, or in person with a Saint Mary’s admissions counselor, your application must include the following items:
Official transcripts: An official transcript issued to Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota from the institution posting the applicant’s completed degree and other relevant transcripts documenting program prerequisites and potential transfer credits must be sent separately and directly from your institution. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota accepts official transcripts electronically from previously attended institutions. Transcripts should be sent to oladmissions@smumn.edu or mailed to:
Transcript Processing Center
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
851 Trafalgar Court, Suite 420
Maitland, FL 32751
Upcoming application deadlines for Saint Mary’s online M.S. in Data Science program:
- Fall I: August 17, 2026
- Fall II: October 12, 2026
Once you’ve submitted your application, expect to be notified about acceptance approximately two weeks after your submission date.
Tuition and Fees
A college education is invaluable. You can take it wherever you want to go and as far as you want to go. Here at Saint Mary’s, we believe the cost of quality education should not get in the way of reaching your goals. We are committed to providing an accessible, career-centered education that enhances your personal and professional growth.
Explore cost breakdowns for tuition and other fees of the online Master of Science in Data Science program.
M.S. in Data Science Career Potential
Data science is one of the fastest-growing industries in the United States, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics expecting the field to grow by 34% by 20341. Careers in Data Science focus on pushing data to decision-makers while being technology and data-centered. Once you earn your master’s degree online, you’ll be prepared to put your data science expertise to work in a variety of in-demand careers, including:
Data scientist
Data scientistManagement analyst
Management analystBusiness analyst
Business analystOperations research analyst
Operations research analystWhat You'll Learn
As a graduate of the M.S. in Data Science online program, you’ll be prepared to impact the workforce with skills that ensure you can complete the following:
- Explain the foundational concepts, practices, skills, and technologies inherent to the field of data science
- Demonstrate effective mining and analysis of complex structured and unstructured data and data sets
- Apply artificial intelligence technologies to data science processes
- Implement statistical analysis into data science processes to include data analysis and predictive analytics
- Apply machine learning design models to data science practices
- Evaluate contemporary ethical perspectives and legal statutes which data scientists need to consider
Frequently Asked Questions
The first step is to submit your application.
The online M.S. in Data Science program is not offered in a blended format. The flexibility of an online program allows you to earn your degree without ever needing to travel to campus.
A technology fee of $100 per term is required.
You may transfer up to six previously earned credits from an accredited institution. Transfer credits are subject to graduate school and program criteria, as well as the program director's recommendation and dean's approval.
Scholarships are available to qualified applicants. Visit our tuition page to learn more.
Source
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational Outlook Handbook. “Data Scientists.” Retrieved January 30, 2026, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/math/data-scientists.htm#.