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Key Takeaways
Best data science degree programs: Boise State, Brigham Young University-..., Idaho State
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $4,000 to $40,095/year
North Idaho College offers the most affordable option at $4,000/yr
Data Science degree programs available: 1 associate's, 3 master's, 2 doctoral in Idaho
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
Idaho community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
1 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: Micron Technology, HP, Clearwater Analytics, Kount
Tech hubs in Boise and Idaho Falls
Hakia Research 2026
Data Science degree programs near 16+ cities across Idaho
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Idaho Data Science programs
We rank 11 accredited data science programs in Idaho using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Are Data Science Degree Programs in Idaho Worth It?
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Data Science Degree Rankings in Idaho
Compare the top-ranked Data Science programs in Idaho by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Data Science Programs in Idaho
Program Landscape
Idaho offers 1 accredited associate's degree programs in data science, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include North Idaho College, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Idaho offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $4,000/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $52,619 in Idaho.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Idaho's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Boise, Idaho Falls, Meridian areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Micron Technology, HP, Clearwater Analytics hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among data science schools in Idaho, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their data science degrees in Idaho.
Best Bachelor's Data Science Programs in Idaho
Program Landscape
Idaho ranks among the nation's top destinations for data science education, with 5 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 3 public and 2 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Boise State, Brigham Young University-..., Idaho State, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Idaho data science programs earn a median salary of $81,320, 17% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Boise, Idaho Falls, Meridian metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Micron Technology, HP, Clearwater Analytics.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $4,656 to $40,095 annually, with an average of $12,645/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 86%, with the highest reaching 89%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Idaho's leading technology employers. For students seeking data science degrees in Idaho, these top-ranked data science schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Best Master's Data Science Programs in Idaho
Program Landscape
Idaho offers 3 master's degree programs in data science, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, U of Idaho, Boise State, Idaho State, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Idaho earn a median salary of $95,670, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Boise, Idaho Falls, Meridian creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Micron Technology, HP, Clearwater Analytics actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $6,158/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Idaho's data science schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
Best Doctoral Data Science Programs in Idaho
Program Landscape
Idaho is home to 2 doctoral programs in data science, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at U of Idaho, Boise State are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Idaho PhD holders earning a median of $119,588, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Boise, Idaho Falls, Meridian region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Micron Technology, HP, Clearwater Analytics.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across Idaho programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing data science degrees in Idaho, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
Data Science Degree Costs & Tuition in Idaho
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $11,204/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $28,010/year |
| Community college tuition | $2,801/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $67,224 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $16,806 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Data Science Students in Idaho
State Aid Programs
Idaho residents pursuing data science degrees have access to multiple funding sources designed to make higher education affordable. The Idaho Opportunity Scholarship is a key state-level aid program offering need- and merit-based awards of up to $3,500 per year for qualifying Idaho residents. This scholarship complements federal financial aid programs available through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which provides grants, loans, and work-study opportunities to students at participating institutions. All public universities and most private colleges in Idaho participate in the federal aid system, making these resources accessible to data science students across the state.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state and federal aid, Idaho's data science programs offer institutional scholarships and funding opportunities. Many of the state's leading programs, including those at Boise State University and the University of Idaho, provide merit-based scholarships for high-achieving students. Students should complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for Pell Grants and federal student loans, which are available at all accredited institutions. For comprehensive information about aid eligibility and application processes, the Federal Student Aid website provides detailed guidance. Additionally, transfer students can take advantage of Idaho's General Education Statewide Transfer Policy, which ensures credits transfer seamlessly among public institutions, potentially reducing overall time-to-degree and associated costs. Understanding these resources is essential for maximizing financial support while pursuing a data science credential in Idaho.
Data Science Degree ROI Calculator, Idaho
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a data science degree in Idaho. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Data Science Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a data science degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
+697%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
$1,289,731
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
6 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
$114,286
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Direct cost of the degree program
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Data Science Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Idaho metro areas
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Boise | $105K |
| Idaho Falls | $100K |
| Meridian | $96K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Data Science Graduates in Idaho
Find data science jobs in Idaho. These major employers across Idaho metro areas are actively hiring data science degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Data Science Jobs in Boise
IDData Science Jobs in Idaho Falls
IDTransfer Pathways for Data Science Degrees in Idaho
State Transfer System
Idaho's 5 two-year institutions provide accessible entry points into data science education through associate's degree programs. (College of Southern Idaho), (College of Western Idaho), and (North Idaho College) award associate's degrees in data science and related fields, with 5 total completions reported in 2023. The (Idaho General Education Statewide Transfer Policy) ensures that general education credits earned at community colleges transfer seamlessly to four-year public institutions, eliminating unnecessary repetition and reducing time-to-degree. This policy is critical for students who begin at lower-cost two-year schools, tuition averages $3,400–$4,560 annually, and transfer to bachelor's programs. The policy guarantees that 30 transferable general education credits earned at any Idaho public community college are accepted by all Idaho public universities.
How Transfers Work
Transfer students can build associate's degrees at community colleges and transition directly into bachelor's programs at four-year institutions like (Boise State University), (University of Idaho), and (Idaho State University). Many four-year institutions have formal articulation agreements with community colleges specifying which courses count toward specific bachelor's degrees, reducing course-counting disputes. Students should work with college advisors to plan their course sequences according to university requirements. Additionally, students who complete associate's degrees and wish to pursue advanced study can continue to master's programs at (Boise State University) and (University of Idaho). Financial aid and scholarship opportunities, including the (Idaho Opportunity Scholarship), support transfer students. For additional career pathway information, explore (Data Analytics in Idaho) and (Computer Science in Idaho) programs that accept transfer credits.
Why Pursue a Data Science Degree in Idaho?
Industry & Workforce
Idaho is a growing hub for data science education, with 11 institutions offering programs across all degree levels according to (IPEDS). The state awarded 278 bachelor's degrees in data science in 2023, demonstrating strong undergraduate demand and career preparation. Leading institutions like Boise State University, which produced 130 completions, and Brigham Young University-Idaho with 94 completions, provide strong pathways into the field. For graduate-level study, 3 institutions offer master's programs with 41 total completions, while 2 institutions provide doctoral options, creating comprehensive educational opportunities from associate through doctoral degrees.
Salary Outlook
Idaho's major tech employers and healthcare systems actively recruit data science graduates. Companies like Micron Technology, HP Inc., and St. Luke's Health System create immediate career opportunities in the Boise City, Idaho Falls, and Coeur d'Alene metro areas. The state's affordability advantage is significant, public in-state tuition averages just $6,084 annually compared to $20,994 for out-of-state students at four-year institutions (College Scorecard). Additionally, Idaho residents may qualify for the (Idaho Opportunity Scholarship), offering need- and merit-based awards up to $3,500/year. Explore related fields like (Data Analytics in Idaho), (Machine Learning in Idaho), and (Artificial Intelligence in Idaho) to expand your educational options.
Data Science Program Availability in Idaho
Source: IPEDS 2024
Data Science Job Market & Salary Data in Idaho
Employment Outlook
Idaho's data science job market is experiencing steady growth, supported by a diverse employer base and expanding tech sector across multiple regions. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Idaho's major metropolitan areas, including the Boise City metro, Idaho Falls region, and Coeur d'Alene area, are emerging as significant hubs for data science professionals. The state's 11 institutions offering data science programs are producing a growing pipeline of talent, with 278 bachelor's degree completions annually across five institutions. This educational infrastructure directly supports workforce development in key markets like the Treasure Valley, Magic Valley, and Eastern Idaho regions.
Salaries by Metro
The employment landscape in Idaho benefits from substantial investments by major corporations and healthcare systems. Organizations such as Micron Technology, HP Inc., and St. Luke's Health System are among the state's largest employers, driving demand for data science expertise across technology, manufacturing, and healthcare sectors. Public sector growth, including expansion at Boise State University itself, further strengthens employment opportunities. For prospective graduates, the combination of affordable in-state tuition, averaging $6,084 for public four-year institutions, and accessible job markets creates a compelling pathway to career success. To explore related opportunities, consider reviewing data analytics programs in Idaho and machine learning degrees in Idaho, which complement data science career trajectories. The College Scorecard provides detailed employment outcome data for individual institutions.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Online vs On-Campus Data Science Programs in Idaho
Online Programs
0 available in Idaho
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Compare Data Science Programs in Other States
- Total Programs
- 43
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
- Total Programs
- 19
- Median Tuition
- $11,100
- Total Programs
- 7
- Median Tuition
- $7,900
- Total Programs
- 20
- Median Tuition
- $6,500
- Total Programs
- 9
- Median Tuition
- $6,100
- Total Programs
- 180
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
- Total Programs
- 77
- Median Tuition
- $8,700
Data Science Degree Programs in Idaho: FAQ
What are the best data science degree programs in Idaho?
How much do data science degree programs cost in Idaho?
What salary can data science degree graduates earn in Idaho?
Are there online data science degree programs in Idaho?
What companies hire data science degree graduates in Idaho?
Is a data science degree program worth it in Idaho?
How long do data science degree programs take in Idaho?
What financial aid is available for data science degree students in Idaho?
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Idaho salary and employment data
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.