Top 3 Data Science Programs in Indiana 2025
Purdue University-Main Campus
560 data science graduates annually, 83% graduation rate
Indiana University-Bloomington
247 data science graduates annually, 84% graduation rate
University of Notre Dame
6 data science graduates annually, 99% graduation rate
- 1.Indiana offers 28+ accredited data science programs across public and private universities
- 2.Purdue University-Main Campus leads with 83% graduation rate
- 3.Indiana software developers earn median $103,570 annually (BLS OES 2024)
- 4.Tech opportunities concentrated in Indianapolis, Carmel, Fort Wayne
- 5.Cost of living index: 91.5% of US average (below average)
Data Science Education in Indiana: Overview
Indiana offers 28 accredited data science programs, producing approximately 1,384 graduates annually. The state's tech industry is centered in Indianapolis, Carmel, Fort Wayne, with major employers including Salesforce, Angie, Cummins.
With a median software developer salary of $103,570 (BLS OES May 2024) and a cost of living index of 91.5% compared to the US average, Indiana offers above-average purchasing power for tech workers compared to higher-cost coastal markets.
The top data science programs in the state are led by Purdue University-Main Campus, Indiana University-Bloomington, University of Notre Dame, each offering distinct advantages in terms of program size, graduation rates, and industry connections.
Based on 25 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Data Science degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources (IPEDS 2023)
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
Indiana-specific salaries from BLS OES May 2024
Indiana Data Science Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Purdue University-Main Campus | West Lafayette, IN | Public | $9,718 | 83% | 83.9 |
| 2 | Indiana University-Bloomington | Bloomington, IN | Public | $10,312 | 84% | 65.5 |
| 3 | University of Notre Dame | Notre Dame, IN | Private | $62,186 | 99% | 60.1 |
| 4 | Purdue University Northwest | Hammond, IN | Public | $7,259 | 92% | 50.7 |
| 5 | Indiana University-Indianapolis | Indianapolis, IN | Public | $9,241 | — | 47.6 |
| 6 | Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology | Terre Haute, IN | Private | $52,998 | — | 46.5 |
| 7 | DePauw University | Greencastle, IN | Private | $56,030 | — | 45.9 |
| 8 | Butler University | Indianapolis, IN | Private | $44,990 | 92% | 45.8 |
| 9 | Ball State University | Muncie, IN | Public | $8,688 | — | 45.3 |
| 10 | University of Evansville | Evansville, IN | Private | $41,400 | 96% | 44.6 |
| 11 | Taylor University | Upland, IN | Private | $38,140 | 80% | 44.3 |
| 12 | Saint Mary's College | Notre Dame, IN | Private | $50,350 | 86% | 44 |
| 13 | Purdue University Fort Wayne | Fort Wayne, IN | Public | $8,049 | — | 43.7 |
| 14 | Anderson University | Anderson, IN | Private | $34,590 | — | 40.3 |
| 15 | Wabash College | Crawfordsville, IN | Private | $48,200 | — | 39 |
| 16 | Indiana Institute of Technology | Fort Wayne, IN | Private | $29,936 | — | 38.6 |
| 17 | University of Indianapolis | Indianapolis, IN | Private | $34,416 | — | 37.4 |
| 18 | Earlham College | Richmond, IN | Private | $50,970 | — | 37.2 |
| 19 | Indiana University-Southeast | New Albany, IN | Public | $7,492 | — | 36.9 |
| 20 | University of Southern Indiana | Evansville, IN | Public | $8,751 | — | 35.5 |
| 21 | Indiana State University | Terre Haute, IN | Public | $9,712 | — | 34.9 |
| 22 | Valparaiso University | Valparaiso, IN | Private | $45,136 | — | 34.6 |
| 23 | Indiana University-South Bend | South Bend, IN | Public | $7,492 | — | 34.6 |
| 24 | Indiana University-Kokomo | Kokomo, IN | Public | $7,492 | — | 34.1 |
| 25 | Franklin College | Franklin, IN | Private | $36,600 | — | 34 |
Top 5 Data Science Programs in Indiana: Side-by-Side
| School | Purdue | IU Bloomington | Notre Dame | Purdue University Northwest | Indiana University-Indian... |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $9,718 | $10,312 | $62,186 | $7,259 | $9,241 |
| Graduation Rate | 83% | 84% | 99% | 92% | N/A% |
| Annual Graduates | 560 | 247 | 6 | 28 | 101 |
| Acceptance Rate | 50% | 80% | 12% | 71% | 81% |
| Type | Public | Public | Private | Public | Public |
| Score | 83.9/100 | 65.5/100 | 60.1/100 | 50.7/100 | 47.6/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Data Science in Indiana
Indiana offers 26 bachelor's-level data science programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Purdue University-Main Campus, Indiana University-Bloomington, University of Notre Dame. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $72,499 in the Indiana 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 Indiana
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Purdue | $9,718 | 83% | 560 | 83.9 |
| #2 IU Bloomington | $10,312 | 84% | 185 | 62.2 |
| #3 Notre Dame | $62,186 | 99% | 6 | 60.1 |
Top Data Science Schools for Master's Degrees in Indiana
For graduate study, Indiana offers 8 master's-level data science programs. Leading institutions include Indiana University-Bloomington, Purdue University-Main Campus, Purdue University Northwest. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Indiana reaching $134,641 or more.
Top 3 Data Science Master's Programs in Indiana
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 IU Bloomington | $10,312 | 84% | 247 | 65.5 |
| #2 Purdue | $9,718 | 83% | 163 | 77.0 |
| #3 Purdue University Northwest | $7,259 | 92% | 28 | 50.7 |
Most Affordable Data Science Colleges in Indiana
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable data science programs in Indiana are at Purdue University Northwest ($7,259/year), Indiana University-Southeast ($7,492/year), Indiana University-South Bend ($7,492/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Indiana's competitive tech salaries.
At Purdue University Northwest, a 4-year degree costs approximately $29,036 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $72,499, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.8 years. See our Most Affordable Data Science Programs for national comparisons.
Most Affordable Data Science Programs in Indiana (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Purdue University Northwest | $7,259 | $29,036 | 0.8 years | Public |
| #2 Indiana University-Southeast | $7,492 | $29,968 | 0.8 years | Public |
| #3 Indiana University-South... | $7,492 | $29,968 | 0.8 years | Public |
Detailed Program Spotlights: Inside the Top 5 Data Science Schools in Indiana
Below are detailed profiles of the top 5 data science programs in Indiana, including admissions requirements, curriculum highlights, career outcomes, and what makes each program unique. Data sourced from official university websites and IPEDS 2023.
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $9,718 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 83% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 560 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 50%
- • Ranking Score: 83.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 83% graduation rate
- 560 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 83.9 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (83%), program size (560 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,570), and selectivity (50% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Purdue's Data Science program offers a unique interdisciplinary approach at the intersection of computer science and statistics, ranking #7 in interdisciplinary sciences among U.S. public universities. Students can choose from three specialized emphasis areas and benefit from flexible electives to tailor their studies toward specific industry applications.
Admission Prerequisites
- •4 years Math
- •4 years English
- •3 years Lab science
- •3 years Social studies
- •2 years World language
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Indiana University-Bloomington
Bloomington, IN • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $10,312 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 84% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 247 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 80%
- • Ranking Score: 65.5 / 100
Program Strengths
- 84% graduation rate
- 247 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 65.5 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (84%), program size (247 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,570), and selectivity (80% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The program offers comprehensive data science education with specialized tracks and strong research opportunities across multiple computing disciplines. Students benefit from extensive career services and can complete capstone projects including international study abroad options.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.0
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Notre Dame
Notre Dame, IN • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $62,186 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 99% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 6 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 12%
- • Ranking Score: 60.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 99% graduation rate
- 6 data science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 60.1 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (99%), program size (6 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,570), and selectivity (12% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The Data Science minor provides innovative analytical tools to approach problems and improve marketability regardless of major, with flexible specialization options in either workflow phases or thematic applications across disciplines from philosophy to physics.
Admission Prerequisites
- •Introductory statistics
- •CSE 10101/CDT30010 Elements of Computing I
Program Details
- Credits: 15 credits (5 courses)
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Purdue University Northwest
Hammond, IN • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,259 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 28 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 71%
- • Ranking Score: 50.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 28 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 50.7 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (28 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,570), and selectivity (71% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The program emphasizes both programming skills and statistical methods needed for data-driven decision making, with teamwork and communication as key elements. Students can work with renowned faculty on research projects and customize their program toward specific areas of data science.
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •Statistics
- •Linear Algebra
- •Calculus
- •Probability Theory
- •Programming Languages
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits (undergraduate), 30 credits (master's)
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: Federal, State and Local Governments, Nonprofit Organizations, Finance Companies
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Indiana University-Indianapolis
Indianapolis, IN • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $9,241 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 101 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 81%
- • Ranking Score: 47.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 101 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 47.6 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (101 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,570), and selectivity (81% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The Data Science program offers comprehensive training in statistical learning, data mining, and deep learning neural networks with both Data Science and Information Science specializations. Students can choose from multiple capstone options including study abroad in Finland, and the program is part of an accelerated bachelor's and master's degree pathway.
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Data Scientist opportunities in Indiana with strong job growth.
Data Engineer
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Machine Learning Engineer
SOC 15-1299Machine Learning Engineer opportunities in Indiana with strong job growth.
Data Analyst
SOC 15-2051Data Analyst opportunities in Indiana with strong job growth.
Business Intelligence Analyst
SOC 15-2051Business Intelligence Analyst opportunities in Indiana with strong job growth.
Which Should You Choose?
- You want access to tech jobs in Indianapolis, Carmel, Fort Wayne
- You're seeking lower cost of living than coastal states (91.5% of US average)
- You want to work at companies like Salesforce or Angie
- You prefer Indiana's quality of life
- You prioritize highest possible salary (consider CA, WA, NY)
- You want more program options (CA has 100+ vs Indiana's 28)
- You're looking for major coastal tech hub concentration (consider SF, Seattle, NYC)
Other Tech Degree Programs in Indiana
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Explore computer engineering programs in Indiana
Explore information technology programs in Indiana
Data Science Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Georgia
Massachusetts
Data Science in Indiana FAQ
Related Resources
Data Sources & Methodology
Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System - program completions, graduation rates, tuition, admissions
Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics - Indiana salary data
2023-2033 occupational outlook and growth projections
Program-specific admissions, curriculum, and career outcome data
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.