Southern Methodist University

How this program compares

At an estimated $37.9K in total tuition, the Online MS 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 programming experience in Python or R. Relevant work experience or coursework in statistics and linear algebra is often preferred.

About This Program

This interdisciplinary master's degree equips data-driven professionals with the tools to effectively mine, manage, and analyze unstructured data for strategic impact. 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. Data Analytics Manager

What You'll Learn

• Build and deploy machine learning models for predictive analytics.
• Analyze large datasets using statistical methods and big data tools.
• Apply deep learning techniques to image, text, and sequential data.
• Develop data pipelines for scalable machine learning applications.

Curriculum Highlights

Structured with core credits in statistics and programming, the program offers a specialization in machine learning and artificial intelligence using Python and R.

Top Employers

Top employers include tech giants like Google, Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta, as well as finance firms 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 programming experience in Python or R. Relevant work experience or coursework in statistics and linear algebra 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: Not Required
• TOEFL/IELTS: Required for international students (TOEFL 80+ / IELTS 6.5+)