Southern Methodist University

How this program compares

At an estimated $37.9K in total tuition, the M.S. in Data Science - Machine Learning sits roughly 11% below the $42.4K average for AI master's programs in our database — placing it in the 58th percentile on cost among the 531 we track at this level. It is one of the 57% of programs in our database offered fully or partly online.

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: A bachelor's degree in a quantitative field such as computer science, mathematics, statistics, or engineering is required, along with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and relevant coursework in programming, calculus, and linear algebra. Work experience in data-related roles or programming proficiency is often preferred.

About This Program

An online master's program designed for professionals to gain advanced skills in managing, analyzing, and mining complex data to make strategic, data-driven decisions. Coursework concentrates on Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Machine Learning. Most students complete it in about 2 years.

Estimated total tuition is $37.9K, below the $42.4K average for AI master's programs in our database and in the 58th percentile on cost at this level. That puts it in the mid-range on price among comparable programs.

Position as Data Scientist in Cross-Industry AI with machine learning expertise Graduates frequently move into roles such as Data Scientist, with reported salaries around $130,000.

Career Outcomes

Position as Data Scientist in Cross-Industry AI with machine learning expertise

• 1. Machine Learning Engineer
• 2. Data Scientist
• 3. AI Research Scientist
• 4. Predictive Analytics Specialist

What You'll Learn

• Build and evaluate supervised and unsupervised machine learning models for real-world data problems.
• Apply deep learning techniques to image recognition, NLP, and sequential data analysis.
• Process and analyze large-scale datasets using big data tools like Spark and Hadoop.
• Develop predictive analytics solutions integrating statistics, algorithms, and domain knowledge.

Curriculum Highlights

The interdisciplinary curriculum includes core credits in statistics and programming with a specialization in machine learning, covering deep learning and natural language processing.

Top Employers

Top employers include tech giants like Google, Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta, as well as finance firms, healthcare organizations, and consulting companies specializing in AI and data solutions.

Admissions

A bachelor's degree in a quantitative field such as computer science, mathematics, statistics, or engineering is required, along with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and relevant coursework in programming, calculus, and linear algebra. Work experience in data-related roles or programming proficiency is often preferred.

Application Materials

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

Academic Requirements

• Degree Required: Bachelor's degree
• GRE/GMAT: Optional or Not Required
• TOEFL/IELTS: Required for international students (TOEFL 80+ / IELTS 6.5+)