Mercer University

How this program compares

Budget-wise, $21.9K puts this master's program at the 29th percentile on cost — roughly 49% below the $42.9K average across 394 comparable listings. It is one of the 54% of programs in our database offered fully or partly online.

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: A bachelor's degree in a related field such as computer science, mathematics, statistics, or engineering is required, along with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and relevant quantitative background. GRE is typically optional or not required for MS Data Science programs.

About This Program

This program equips students with advanced skills in machine learning and statistics to solve real-world problems and extract actionable knowledge from data. Most students complete it in about 1.5 years.

Budget planners should note $21.9K estimated total tuition (29th percentile among AI master's programs, below the $42.9K average). That makes it one of the more affordable options for students weighing return on investment.

It is one of 26 AI-related programs we track in Georgia, of which about 69% offer an online option. On price, it comes in higher than about 62% of the Georgia programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $36.8K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as Data Scientist, with reported salaries around $120,000.

Design and implement machine learning models for predictive analytics.

Career Outcomes

The MS in Data Science (Formerly Applied Data Intelligence and Machine Learning) at Mercer University (Macon, Georgia) is oriented toward Data Scientist hiring, with alumni reporting pay near $120,000. Its focus on Machine Learning and Natural Language Processing (NLP) maps directly to how employers screen for specialized skills rather than generic degrees. Federal projections for this occupational area point to roughly 36% growth this decade — verify the current figure on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook before you rely on it.

• 1. Data Scientist
• 2. Machine Learning Engineer
• 3. Data Analyst
• 4. AI Specialist

What You'll Learn

• Design and implement machine learning models for predictive analytics.
• Analyze large datasets using statistical methods and big data tools.
• Apply deep learning techniques to complex data problems.
• Develop data visualization and communication strategies for insights.

Curriculum Highlights

The 36-hour curriculum includes core requirements like foundations of programming and data mining, alongside advanced topics such as cloud computing and computer vision.

Top Employers

Top employers include tech companies like Google, Amazon, Microsoft, and financial firms with data analytics needs.

Admissions

Admission to Mercer University's MS in Data Science (Formerly Applied Data Intelligence and Machine Learning) generally expects a bachelor's degree. The GRE is optional here — a growing norm among AI programs — so applicants can often lead with coursework, projects and recommendations instead. Deadlines, testing policies and funding change year to year, so confirm the current requirements on the official program page before applying.

Application Materials

• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Letters of Recommendation: 2–3
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Frequently Asked Questions