Top 3 Data Science Programs in Georgia 2025
Emory University
226 Data Science graduates annually, 97% graduation rate
University of Georgia
292 Data Science graduates annually, 95% graduation rate
Georgia State University
357 Data Science graduates annually, 94% graduation rate
- 1.Georgia has 25+ data science and analytics bachelor's programs across public universities and private colleges
- 2.Georgia Tech ranks #1 in Georgia with 88% graduation rate and direct Atlanta tech recruiting pipeline
- 3.UGA offers top public data science education at $12,080 in-state tuition with strong business analytics focus
- 4.Georgia data scientists earn median $95,840 annually—4% above the national median according to BLS OEWS Georgia 2024
- 5.Atlanta metro area provides 8,500+ data science jobs with major employers including Delta, Home Depot, and Coca-Cola
Data Science Education in Georgia
Georgia has emerged as a significant hub for data science education and careers, led by world-class programs at Georgia Tech and the University of Georgia. The state offers a diverse range of programs from comprehensive computer science tracks with data science concentrations to dedicated analytics degrees.
Atlanta's growing tech sector, anchored by major corporations like Delta Air Lines, Home Depot, and Coca-Cola, provides abundant internship and career opportunities for data science graduates. The city has also attracted major tech companies including Microsoft, Google, and Amazon to establish significant operations.
For comparison with programs nationwide, see our national data science bachelor's rankings. If you're considering costs, our most affordable data science programs guide highlights budget-friendly options. Career-focused students should review our data scientist salary guide for Georgia-specific compensation data.
Georgia's data science programs emphasize practical applications across industries including logistics, healthcare, finance, and retail. Students benefit from the state's business-friendly environment and access to both Fortune 500 companies and emerging startups.
Georgia Data Science Program Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Emory University | Atlanta, GA | Private | $59,920 | 97% | — | 89 |
| 2 | University of Georgia | Athens, GA | Public | $9,790 | 95% | — | 86.9 |
| 3 | Georgia State University | Atlanta, GA | Public | $7,158 | 94% | — | 84.9 |
| 4 | Kennesaw State University | Kennesaw, GA | Public | $4,450 | 66% | — | 68.3 |
| 5 | Morehouse College | Atlanta, GA | Private | $27,984 | 91% | — | 54.9 |
| 6 | Mercer University | Macon, GA | Private | $33,080 | 88% | — | 51.3 |
| 7 | Clark Atlanta University | Atlanta, GA | Private | $23,484 | 85% | — | 48.7 |
| 8 | Berry College | Mount Berry, GA | Private | $40,140 | 96% | — | 48.2 |
| 9 | Georgia College & State University | Milledgeville, GA | Public | $7,508 | 79% | — | 45.9 |
| 10 | Clayton State University | Morrow, GA | Public | $4,064 | — | — | 41.9 |
| 11 | Augusta University | Augusta, GA | Public | $6,892 | 73% | — | 39 |
| 12 | Georgia Southwestern State University | Americus, GA | Public | $4,064 | 86% | — | 36 |
| 13 | College of Coastal Georgia | Brunswick, GA | Public | $2,563 | — | — | 30.1 |
Top 5 Data Science Programs in Georgia: Side-by-Side
| School | Emory | U of Georgia | Georgia State | Georgia Institute of... | Kennesaw State |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $59,920 | $9,790 | $7,158 | $10,258 | $4,450 |
| Graduation Rate | 97% | 95% | 94% | 76% | 66% |
| Annual Graduates | 226 | 292 | 357 | 207 | 205 |
| Acceptance Rate | 11% | 37% | 62% | 16% | 69% |
| Type | Private | Public | Public | Public | Public |
| Score | 89.0/100 | 86.9/100 | 84.9/100 | 81.0/100 | 67.1/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Data Science in Georgia
Georgia offers 13 bachelor's-level data science programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Emory University, University of Georgia, Georgia State University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $75,215 in the Georgia market.
A bachelor's in data science typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Data Science Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Data Science Bachelor's Programs in Georgia
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Emory | $59,920 | 97% | 226 | 89.0 |
| #2 U of Georgia | $9,790 | 95% | 292 | 86.9 |
| #3 Georgia State | $7,158 | 94% | 357 | 84.9 |
Top Data Science Schools for Master's Degrees in Georgia
For graduate study, Georgia offers 10 master's-level data science programs. Leading institutions include Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus, University of Georgia, Kennesaw State University. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Georgia reaching $139,685 or more.
Top 3 Data Science Master's Programs in Georgia
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Georgia Institute of... | $10,258 | 76% | 207 | 81.0 |
| #2 U of Georgia | $9,790 | 95% | 76 | 75.9 |
| #3 Kennesaw State | $4,450 | 66% | 205 | 67.1 |
Most Affordable Data Science Colleges in Georgia
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable data science programs in Georgia are at College of Coastal Georgia ($2,563/year), Georgia Southwestern State University ($4,064/year), Clayton State University ($4,064/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Georgia's competitive tech salaries.
At College of Coastal Georgia, a 4-year degree costs approximately $10,252 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $75,215, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.3 years.
Most Affordable Data Science Programs in Georgia (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 College of Coastal Georgia | $2,563 | $10,252 | 0.3 years | Public |
| #2 Georgia Southwestern State | $4,064 | $16,256 | 0.4 years | Public |
| #3 Clayton State | $4,064 | $16,256 | 0.4 years | Public |
Emory University
Atlanta, GA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $59,920 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 97% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 226 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 11%
- • Ranking Score: 89.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 97% graduation rate
- 226 data science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 89.0 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (97%), program size (226 graduates), state salary outcomes ($107,450), and selectivity (11% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
University of Georgia
Athens, GA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $9,790 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 95% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 292 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 37%
- • Ranking Score: 86.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 95% graduation rate
- 292 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 86.9 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (95%), program size (292 graduates), state salary outcomes ($107,450), and selectivity (37% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UGA's Data Science B.S. provides comprehensive training in mathematics, data science fundamentals, and practical application through a required capstone course with real-world data analytics projects. Graduates are prepared for careers at top-tier companies across computing, engineering, finance, pharmaceutical, and government sectors.
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: Google, Amazon, Facebook, IBM, Intel, Samsung, Boeing, Goldman Sachs, AIG, Liberty Mutual, Johnson & Johnson, NASA, NIST, DoD
Georgia State University
Atlanta, GA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,158 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 94% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 357 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 62%
- • Ranking Score: 84.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 94% graduation rate
- 357 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 84.9 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (94%), program size (357 graduates), state salary outcomes ($107,450), and selectivity (62% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus
Atlanta, GA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $10,258 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 76% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 207 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 16%
- • Ranking Score: 81.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 76% graduation rate
- 207 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 81.0 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (76%), program size (207 graduates), state salary outcomes ($107,450), and selectivity (16% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Georgia Tech's Online Master of Science in Analytics is a top-5 nationally ranked program that leverages three top-ranked colleges (Computing, Engineering, and Business) to provide comprehensive data science education. The program offers exceptional value with total tuition under $12,000 and flexible online format designed for working professionals.
Admission Prerequisites
- •probability/statistics
- •computer programming in Python
- •calculus and basic linear algebra
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, GA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $4,450 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 66% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 205 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 69%
- • Ranking Score: 67.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 66% graduation rate
- 205 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 67.1 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (66%), program size (205 graduates), state salary outcomes ($107,450), and selectivity (69% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The program offers direct corporate partnerships with major companies like Equifax and Southern Company for sponsored projects every semester, emphasizes fluency in essential programming languages (R, Python, SAS), and provides multiple capstone options including research opportunities.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.75
Program Details
- Credits: 36 credits
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: Equifax, Travelers, Southern Company, IHG, Shaw Flooring, Trusit Bank, Spanx, Atlanticus, Coke One North America
Career Paths
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze complex data to extract business insights and build predictive models for companies like Delta, Home Depot, and Coca-Cola
Data Analytics Manager
Lead data science teams and strategy at major Atlanta corporations and consulting firms
Business Intelligence Analyst
Create dashboards and reports for executive decision-making across Georgia's diverse industries
Build and deploy ML systems for Atlanta's growing tech sector and established enterprises
Healthcare Data Analyst
Leverage Georgia's strong healthcare sector including CDC, Emory Healthcare, and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta
Supply Chain Analyst
Optimize logistics and operations for major retailers and manufacturers based in Georgia
University System of Georgia Data Science Programs
Georgia's public universities operate under the University System of Georgia (USG), which coordinates 26 institutions serving over 340,000 students. For data science education, the system offers multiple pathways from research universities to regional comprehensive universities.
Research Universities like Georgia Tech and UGA provide comprehensive data science programs with strong research components and graduate school preparation. These flagship institutions offer the most resources but also have competitive admissions.
Regional Universities such as Georgia State, Kennesaw State, and Georgia Southern offer practical data science programs focused on workforce preparation. These institutions typically have more accessible admissions and strong connections to regional employers.
State Universities and Colleges provide foundational programs that can serve as stepping stones to advanced study or direct workforce entry. These programs often emphasize applied statistics and business analytics.
For students considering other technology programs, Georgia also offers excellent computer science programs, artificial intelligence degrees, and cybersecurity programs throughout the USG system.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Georgia
Data Science Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Massachusetts
Which Should You Choose?
- Access to world-class programs at affordable public university tuition rates
- Strong job market in Atlanta with major Fortune 500 companies
- Diverse industry applications from logistics to healthcare to finance
- Growing tech ecosystem with increasing venture capital investment
- Lower cost of living compared to traditional tech hubs like California or New York
- Strong research opportunities at flagship universities
- Access to both established enterprises and emerging startups
- Year-round mild climate conducive to outdoor activities and quality of life
- Maximum number of data science program options (California and Texas offer more)
- Highest possible starting salaries (West Coast and Northeast typically pay more)
- Extensive public transportation systems (Atlanta has limited options)
- Access to the most cutting-edge AI/ML companies (fewer pure tech giants in Georgia)
- International business focus (though Atlanta is a major international hub)
- Specialized programs in emerging fields like quantum computing or biotech
- Maximum diversity of tech company sizes and specializations
- Access to the most venture capital and startup accelerators
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia Data Science Programs
Based on 15 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Data Science degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific data science salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Data Science Resources
Sources and Methodology
Official graduation rates, enrollment data, and tuition information for all accredited institutions
State-specific salary data for data scientists and related occupations
Official information on program offerings and transfer agreements
Employment rates and salary data for recent graduates
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.