10 Best Undergraduate Data Science Degree Programs in the U.S. 2026

Data has become one of the most valuable resources any organization can have, and the people who know how to work with it are in high demand across nearly every industry. An undergraduate data science or data analytics degree gives you the technical foundation to collect, analyze, and communicate insights from data, opening the door to careers in technology, business, healthcare, and beyond.

Choosing the right program matters just as much as choosing the field itself. Below, you'll find some of the best undergraduate data science degree programs in the country, along with what to expect from the coursework, how much a degree typically costs, and how to evaluate your options.

What Is an Undergraduate Data Science Degree?

An undergraduate data science major teaches you to collect, clean, and interpret data using a mix of statistics, computer science, and mathematics. Most programs are structured as a Bachelor of Science (BS), though some schools offer a Bachelor of Arts (BA) version with a similar core curriculum and more room for electives outside the major.

Many programs let you concentrate your coursework in a specific area, such as machine learning, computational biology, business analytics, or artificial intelligence, so you can tailor your degree toward the industry or role that interests you most. Some schools build data science into a broader major, like statistics or industrial engineering, rather than offering it as a standalone degree, so it's worth looking closely at how a program is structured before applying.

Regardless of the exact format, coursework typically includes programming languages like Python and R, probability and statistics, database systems, and machine learning, along with a capstone project that lets you apply what you've learned to a real dataset. Many students go on to pursue a master's degree in data science or a related field, particularly if they want to specialize further or move into more advanced technical roles.

Best Undergraduate Data Science Degree Programs

The schools below stand out for combining rigorous, up-to-date data science curricula with strong outcomes and research reputations. Each entry covers what the program offers and what makes it a solid option to consider. 

1. Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon University offers a BS in Statistics & Data Science through its Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences, giving students a comprehensive foundation in statistical theory and advanced data analysis. The program is highly customizable, letting students tailor their coursework around specific interests while building the computing, communication, and analytical skills employers look for. Students who want an even more technical path can pursue the related Statistics and Machine Learning major, which combines statistical depth with a stronger computing focus.

Based in Pittsburgh and accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), Carnegie Mellon is one of the best STEM colleges in the U.S. The school also offers a Master of Science in Applied Data Science that makes it a strong choice for students who may want to pursue a graduate degree without switching institutions.

2. Duke University

Duke University offers multiple paths into data science depending on how you want to structure your degree. Students can pursue an interdepartmental major in Data Science that combines coursework from the mathematics, statistics, and computer science departments, or add a Data Science concentration to a BS or BA in Statistical Science. Computer science majors have a similar option, with a Data Science concentration that now folds in artificial intelligence coursework as part of its core requirements.

Located in Durham, North Carolina, and accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), Duke gives students the flexibility to approach data science through whichever department fits their academic interests best. Students who want to continue on to a master's degree can also pursue Duke's Master in Interdisciplinary Data Science, a graduate program that builds on the same interdisciplinary approach found in the undergraduate options.

3. Georgia Institute of Technology

Georgia Tech folds data science into its BS in Industrial Engineering through the Analytics & Data Science concentration, one of several specialized tracks students can choose within the major. The concentration blends data analytics, machine learning, and advanced coursework in operations research and statistics, preparing students for roles as analysts or consultants as well as further study at the master's level.

Georgia Tech is based in Atlanta and carries accreditation from the SACSCOC. Because the concentration is built into a broader engineering degree, graduates leave with a strong systems-thinking foundation alongside their data science skills, a combination that appeals to students who want their technical training grounded in real-world problem-solving.

4. Massachusetts Institute of Technology 

MIT's BS in Computer Science, Economics, and Data Science, known on campus as Course 6-14, gives students a portfolio of skills spanning computing, economics, and data science that translate well to both business and academic settings. The interdisciplinary structure reflects how closely these fields overlap in practice, particularly in their shared reliance on statistical modeling and large-scale data analysis.

The university is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Students who want to continue their studies have several options at MIT, including a Master of Engineering version of the same program, a related master's in business analytics, and a PhD in social and engineering systems that combines statistics and data science with broader engineering and social science coursework.

5. Northwestern University

Students majoring in Data Science at Northwestern build skills in data management and integration, data structures and algorithms, data visualization and reporting, and machine learning methods. The curriculum blends hands-on projects with theoretical instruction, walking students through the full data science lifecycle from collection and cleaning to analysis and communication.

Northwestern is located in Evanston, Illinois, and holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Graduates interested in continuing their education can choose between a terminal master's degree in data science or a non-terminal option that leads into Northwestern's PhD program, giving students a clear path forward regardless of how far they want to take their studies.

6. Stanford University

Stanford's BS in Data Science offers four areas of specialization: biology and medicine, computational neuroscience, mathematics and computation, and quantitative finance, letting students apply their data science training to the field that interests them most. All students complete a shared core curriculum in mathematics, computer science, and statistical inference before branching into their chosen specialization and a capstone project.

Located in Stanford, California, and accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), the university doesn't offer a general data science master's degree, but its master's and PhD programs in biomedical data science build directly on the fundamentals developed in the undergraduate program for students who want to continue in that direction.

7. University of California, Berkeley

Data science has become UC Berkeley's most popular major, offered as a BA through the College of Computing, Data Science, and Society. The program pairs core coursework in programming, statistical inference, and artificial intelligence with an emphasis on the human and ethical context around data, reflecting the interdisciplinary approach the college takes to the field.

Berkeley is based in Berkeley, California, and accredited by the WSCUC. Students who want to continue their education can pursue the university's online Master of Information and Data Science, a professional graduate program that builds on the same foundation established at the undergraduate level.

8. University of California, San Diego

UC San Diego offers a BS in Data Science through the Halıcıoğlu School of Data Science and Computing, a program built around a curriculum that blends mathematics, statistics, computing, and domain-specific coursework. Students complete a two-quarter senior capstone tied to real-world projects, with an emphasis throughout the program on ethical data use and societal impact.

The university is located in San Diego, and holds accreditation from the WSCUC. UC San Diego also offers master's and PhD programs in data science through the same school, making it an option for students who want to stay at one institution from their bachelor's degree through an advanced degree.

9. University of Michigan

The University of Michigan's undergraduate Data Science major is offered jointly through the College of Engineering and the Department of Statistics, training students in machine learning, artificial intelligence, pattern recognition, and statistical analysis. A capstone experience caps off the program, giving students hands-on practice applying their coursework to large-scale data problems, with an optional senior thesis track for students who want a more research-focused finish.

Ann Arbor, Michigan is home to the university's main campus, which is accredited by the HLC. Graduates looking to continue their education can pursue Michigan's Master's of Data Science program, which brings together statistical and computational training without splitting students into separate tracks or specializations.

10. University of Washington

The University of Washington offers a BS in Informatics with a Data Science focus area, letting students build toward a transcript-recognized specialization through coursework in data reasoning, database design, and interactive information visualization. The flexible structure allows students to pair data science with other focus areas within the Information School, including human-computer interaction or information management.

Based in Seattle and accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), the university also offers a Master of Science in Information Management with a data science specialization, available both on campus and online for students who want to continue their studies after finishing their undergraduate degree.

How We Rank Schools

To create this list, we review data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), along with program-level details published by each university.

We then evaluate each school based on factors that matter most to students pursuing an undergraduate data science degree, including academic quality, curriculum depth, and post-graduation outcomes. Below are the core criteria we consider when comparing programs:

• Accreditation: We prioritize regionally accredited institutions to ensure academic standards, credit transferability, and eligibility for federal financial aid.
• Career alignment: We look for curricula that build in-demand technical skills, such as programming, statistical analysis, and machine learning, alongside opportunities for hands-on experience through capstones or research projects.
• Student outcomes: We review publicly available data related to retention, graduation rates, and post-graduation pathways to gauge overall program effectiveness.

Learn more about our ranking methodology. 

What Will You Learn in an Undergraduate Data Science Degree Program?

An undergraduate data science degree combines statistics, computer science, and applied mathematics into a curriculum focused on turning raw data into usable insight. Core coursework typically includes:

• Programming languages: writing code in Python and R to clean, manipulate, and analyze data.
• Probability and statistics: the mathematical foundation for identifying patterns and drawing conclusions from data.
• Database systems: storing, organizing, and querying large datasets using tools like SQL.
• Machine learning: building models that can identify patterns and make predictions from data.
• Data visualization: presenting findings through charts, graphs, and dashboards that communicate insights clearly.

Most programs also build in some form of hands-on application, whether through a required capstone project, coursework using real-world datasets, or research opportunities with faculty. Depending on the school, you may also be able to concentrate your studies in a specific area, such as computational biology, business analytics, or artificial intelligence, letting you shape your degree around the industry or role you're most interested in.

How Long Does it Take to Earn an Undergraduate Data Science Degree?

A Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in data science typically takes about four years of full-time study to complete, similar to most other undergraduate degrees. Some students shorten that timeline by entering with transfer credits or AP credit from high school coursework in math, statistics, or computer science.

Because data science programs are often built around a structured sequence of prerequisite and core courses, there's usually less flexibility to accelerate the timeline than in some other majors. That said, students who plan to continue directly into a master's program should look into accelerated pathways some schools offer, which can allow you to complete both degrees in less time than pursuing them separately.

How Much Does an Undergraduate Data Science Degree Cost?

The cost of an undergraduate data science degree depends heavily on the type of institution you attend and your residency status. Public universities typically charge lower tuition rates for in-state students than out-of-state or international students, while private universities generally charge one flat rate regardless of where you live.

Beyond tuition, expect additional costs like technology fees, lab fees, and course materials, which can add up over four years. Merit-based scholarships, financial aid, and in-state tuition can all significantly reduce the total cost, so it's worth researching a school's full cost of attendance and available aid rather than relying on tuition price alone when comparing programs.

Financial Aid for Undergraduate Data Science Degrees

Paying for an undergraduate data science degree may feel overwhelming at first, but most students qualify for some form of financial support. Aid options vary by school, but regionally accredited institutions typically participate in federal financial aid programs. Common options include:

• Federal grants: need-based grants, such as the Pell Grant, that don't require repayment.
• Federal student loans: subsidized and unsubsidized loans that help cover tuition and fees, with repayment typically beginning after graduation.
• Institutional scholarships: merit-based or program-specific scholarships many universities offer for students pursuing technology and STEM-related degrees.
• Work-study programs: part-time, need-based employment, often on campus, that helps offset education costs while you're enrolled.
• State grants and scholarships: aid programs offered by your state of residency, which can be especially valuable if you're attending an in-state public university.
• Employer tuition assistance: some employers offer tuition reimbursement or assistance programs for employees pursuing degrees in high-demand fields like data science.
• Military and veteran benefits: eligible service members and veterans may use education benefits to help cover tuition and related costs.

How To Choose the Right Undergraduate Data Science Degree

Not all undergraduate data science degrees are structured the same way, so it's worth looking beyond a program's title before applying. Taking time to compare curriculum, accreditation, hands-on opportunities, and career support can help you find a program that fits both your academic interests and your long-term goals.

Curriculum and Concentrations

Look closely at what a program actually covers, not just its title. Some schools offer data science as a standalone major, while others build it into a broader degree like statistics or industrial engineering, and the available concentrations can vary widely from one program to the next.

Accreditation and Reputation

Confirm that any school you're considering holds regional accreditation, since this affects credit transferability, financial aid eligibility, and how your degree is viewed by employers and graduate programs alike. A strong departmental reputation within data science specifically can matter just as much as the university's overall name recognition.

Hands-On Learning Opportunities

Programs that include capstone projects, research opportunities, or internships give you a chance to apply classroom concepts to real data before you graduate. This kind of practical experience often makes a bigger difference to employers than coursework alone, so prioritize programs that build it in rather than leave it optional.

Career Support and Outcomes

Look into what career services a school offers specifically for data science students, including internship placement, employer connections, and graduate outcome data. Programs with strong industry ties can make the transition from classroom to career considerably smoother.

Career Outlook With an Undergraduate Data Science Degree

The job market for data scientists remains strong. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of data scientists is projected to grow 34% between 2024 and 2034, far outpacing the 3% average growth projected across all occupations. That growth is expected to add roughly 82,500 new data scientist jobs over the decade, with about 23,400 openings projected annually once workers who transfer roles or leave the field are factored in.

Pay reflects that demand as well. The median annual wage for data scientists was $112,590 as of May 2024, well above the median across all occupations. An undergraduate data science degree also opens doors to related roles beyond the "data scientist" title itself, including data analyst, machine learning engineer, and business intelligence analyst, giving graduates a wide range of career paths to choose from as they enter the field.

FAQs About the Best Undergraduate Data Science Degree Programs

Choosing an undergraduate data science degree comes with practical questions about value, credibility, and fit. Below are answers to some of the most common ones.

Is an Undergraduate Data Science Degree Worth It?

For most students interested in technology, analytics, or research-driven careers, an undergraduate data science degree is worth the investment. The field combines strong job growth with above-average pay, and the skills you build, programming, statistical analysis, and data visualization, apply across nearly every industry. As with any degree, the return depends on choosing a regionally accredited program with a curriculum that keeps pace with current tools and techniques.

Is an Undergraduate Data Science Degree Respected by Employers?

Undergraduate data science degrees are respected by employers, particularly when the degree comes from an accredited institution with a rigorous, up-to-date curriculum. Employers in data-driven fields tend to care more about demonstrated skills and hands-on experience, such as capstone projects or internships, than about the specific name of the degree. A data science degree from a well-regarded program signals both technical competency and the ability to apply that knowledge to real problems.

Who Should Consider an Undergraduate Data Science Degree Program?

An undergraduate data science degree is a strong fit for students who enjoy working with numbers, solving problems, and thinking analytically. It also appeals to students with interests in specific application areas, like biology, business, or public policy, since many programs let you concentrate your studies toward a particular field. If you're comfortable with math and curious about how data shapes decision-making, it's worth serious consideration.

Can You Get A Data Science Job With Just A Bachelor's Degree?

Yes, a bachelor's degree is sufficient for many entry-level data science, data analyst, and business intelligence roles. Some more specialized or senior technical positions, particularly in research-heavy fields, may prefer or require a master's degree, but plenty of graduates enter the workforce successfully with a bachelor's alone, especially if they've built a strong portfolio of projects during their studies.

What's The Difference Between A Data Science Degree And A Computer Science Degree?

A computer science degree focuses broadly on programming, algorithms, and software systems, while a data science degree narrows in specifically on collecting, analyzing, and drawing insights from data. There's meaningful overlap between the two, particularly in programming and machine learning coursework, but data science places more emphasis on statistics and applied analysis, while computer science digs deeper into how software and computing systems work.

Do I Need Prior Programming Experience To Major In Data Science?

Not necessarily. Most undergraduate programs are designed to accommodate students without prior programming experience, starting with introductory courses before moving into more advanced material. That said, some familiarity with math and logical thinking can make the transition into programming coursework smoother, so students without a technical background may want to brush up on basic statistics or coding fundamentals before starting.

Discover Undergraduate Data Science Degrees

Start your journey toward a career in data science by exploring the undergraduate degrees featured on Learn.org. To find out more about a specific program, reach out to individual schools.