Best Bachelor's Data Science Degree Programs in Indiana
Purdue University-Main Campus — West Lafayette, IN
Key Distinction: Purdue's data science program uniquely combines traditional statistical excellence with innovative AI research across education, agriculture, and engineering domains, leveraging NSF Science & Technology Centers and multidisciplinary faculty expertise.
Hakia Insight: Purdue's dual strength in NSF-funded information science and applied mathematics labs creates unusual depth in theoretical foundations—students can co-author research on optimal data compression or computational complexity while simultaneously working with Merck on real measurement science problems.
Purdue's Bachelor of Science in Data Science prepares students for careers at the intersection of computer science and statistics by teaching key computational methods, statistical techniques, and analytical thinking skills needed to extract insights from big data. The program is designed for an interdisciplinary approach, combining quantitative analysis with practical applications across healthcare, security, sustainability, business, and economics. Graduates enter a high-demand job market with strong employer interest across all sectors. The program emphasizes developing both technical knowledge and the ability to communicate data-driven findings to stakeholders.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Data Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Science of Information
- Center for Computational and Applied Mathematics
- Merck-Purdue Center for Measurement Science
- Cryo-EM Facility
- CARE Lab
- Digital Innovation in Agri-Food Systems Laboratory
- Laboratory for Applications of Remote Sensing
- Center for Global Soundscapes
Industry Partners
- Merck & Co (partner)
- Indiana CTSI (collaborator)
- Imagination Station at Lafayette (partner)
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (collaborator)
- Kansas State University (collaborator)
- Indiana University Bloomington (collaborator)
- Towson University (collaborator)
- University of Cambridge (collaborator)
- National Centers for Environmental Information (partner)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. William S. Cleveland — Data science and statistics
- Dr. Chris Clifton — Data science and computer science
- Dr. Jennifer Neville — Data science and machine learning
- Dr. Hua Hua Chang — Adaptive testing and individualized instruction
- Dr. Wayne E. Wright — AI in education research
- Dr. Patrick Wolfe — Statistical methods and data science
- Dr. Sanjay Rebello — AI in physics education
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Location Advantages: Access to NSF Science & Technology CentersProximity to agricultural and manufacturing industriesIntegration with Purdue's engineering and agricultural expertise
Indiana University-Bloomington — Bloomington, IN
Key Distinction: Five research centers offering undergraduate research opportunities. Luddy Living Learning Center with high-tech makespaces for first-year students
Hakia Insight: Indiana's five research centers aren't afterthoughts: first-year students in the Luddy Living Learning Center gain hands-on lab access immediately, meaning underclassmen collaborate on live projects with Amazon and Microsoft data teams rather than waiting until senior year.
Indiana University's Bachelor of Science in Data Science is an interdisciplinary program that equips students with mathematical, programming, and analytical skills to make data-driven decisions across industries. The curriculum emphasizes essential programming knowledge, quantitative and qualitative analysis, and professional communication. Students can choose from five specialization tracks: Foundational Data Science, Data Systems, Network and Applied Data Science, Data Science Design, and Biological and Health Science. The program offers robust research opportunities through five+ research centers including the Center for Bioinformatics Research and Cyberinfrastructure for Network Science Center. In 2019-20, Luddy students were hired by more than 400 companies and organizations across sectors including privacy and security, machine learning, statistical analysis, and consulting. Graduates pursue roles as data scientists, data managers, researchers, and developers. The program is a collaborative effort with the College of Arts and Science and O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, and students can enhance their degree with minors in statistics, IT, virtual reality, or computer science.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Data Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Data to Insight Center
- Digital Science Center
- Center for Bioinformatics Research
- Center for Complex Networks and Systems Research
- Center for Machine Learning
- Cyberinfrastructure for Network Science Center
- Network Science Institute
- Audio Speech and Information REtreival (ASPIRE) Research Group
- Crisis Technologies Innovation Lab
- Observatory on Social Media
- Societal Computing Lab
Industry Partners
- Amazon (employer)
- GoPro (employer)
- Microsoft (employer)
- TikTok (employer)
- Wayfair (employer)
- IBM Research (employer)
- GM (employer)
Notable Faculty
- Haixu Tang — Data science program direction and graduate program leadership
Location Advantages:
University of Notre Dame — Notre Dame, IN
Key Distinction: Notre Dame's data science programs uniquely emphasize ethical human-centered analytics and the development of thought-leaders who consider the moral dimensions of data usage, positioning graduates to conduct impactful research that supports human flourishing.
Hakia Insight: Notre Dame's Gaming Analytics and Human-centered Analytics labs embed ethics directly into technical training—graduates emerge positioned for leadership roles in regulated industries (healthcare, pharma) where moral reasoning about data is as marketable as statistical skill.
At the bachelor's level, 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.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Data Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Data Science — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Gaming Analytics Lab
- Human-centered Analytics Lab
- Applied Analytics and Emerging Technology Lab
- Data, Inference, Analytics, and Learning Lab
- Health Equity Data Lab
- Mendoza Behavioral Lab
- Computational Molecular Science and Engineering Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Electronic Arts (collaborator)
- Ubisoft (collaborator)
- eBay (collaborator)
- Oracle (collaborator)
- NASA (collaborator)
- Thrasio (employer)
- EY (employer)
- Tencent (employer)
- Accenture (employer)
- Bank of America (employer)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Banking industry, Healthcare, Pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, Academia, Medical research, High-volume retail, Manufacturing.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Ahmed Abbasi — AI, machine learning, text analytics, user modeling
- Dr. Nicholas Berente — Digital innovation, managing AI, institutional change
- Dr. Corey Angst — Health analytics, ethics, privacy, security
- Dr. John Lalor — Machine learning, natural language processing
- Dr. Ken Kelley — Psychometrics, statistical methods, human-centered analytics
- Dr. Heng Xu — Responsible AI, privacy-preserving technologies
- Dr. Margaret Traeger — Computational social science, social networks, health analytics
Location Advantages: Access to Notre Dame CaliforniaPartnership with iNDustry Labs in South Bend-Elkhart RegionProximity to diverse industry collaborations
Purdue University Northwest — Hammond, IN
Key Distinction: Engineering-anchored data science with specialized applications to industrial optimization and manufacturing analytics, directly aligned with the region's dominant employers.
Hakia Insight: Purdue Northwest's location adjacent to ArcelorMittal and petrochemical refineries creates a rare pipeline: students learn industrial optimization on real furnace and yield data, giving them job-ready expertise that larger, theory-focused programs can't replicate.
At the bachelor's level, purdue University Northwest delivers data science education with strong grounding in engineering and applied mathematics, leveraging Purdue's broader reputation while tailoring curriculum to the needs of Northwest Indiana's industrial corridor. The program emphasizes statistical computing, machine learning for manufacturing quality control, and data-driven decision-making in engineering contexts—areas where regional employers like ArcelorMittal and refinery operations actively recruit. Student projects frequently involve real datasets from partner companies, providing both portfolio-building opportunities and direct networking with hiring managers. The engineering focus means graduates are well-prepared for roles in predictive maintenance, process optimization, and industrial automation—niches where they compete effectively against computer science-only graduates. Purdue Northwest also benefits from access to Purdue's broader alumni network and resources while maintaining the localized industry connections that make recruitment immediate and placement rates strong.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Data Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Data Science — 4 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Federal, State and Local Governments, Nonprofit Organizations, Finance Companies.
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited engineering programs (parent institution)
Location Advantages: Proximity to ArcelorMittal and steel manufacturing operationsAccess to refinery and petrochemical analytics demandsPurdue main campus resources and connections
Indiana University-Indianapolis — Indianapolis, IN
Key Distinction: Healthcare analytics and civic data science integration in a research-active urban setting, uniquely positioned within Indiana University's medical and health systems ecosystem.
Hakia Insight: IU Indianapolis's embedded partnership with IU Health Systems and Eli Lilly headquarters means capstone projects often become departmental tools—students graduate with portfolio pieces that solve live clinical or pharmaceutical problems, not sandbox exercises.
At the bachelor's level, IU Indianapolis's data science program is embedded within a research-active urban campus serving one of the Midwest's largest metropolitan economies, positioning students at the intersection of healthcare informatics, business analytics, and civic data science. The program differentiates itself through deep partnerships with Indiana University School of Medicine, IU Health Systems, and Indianapolis-based financial services and technology firms—creating direct pipelines into healthcare analytics and business intelligence roles. Faculty conduct applied research on electronic health records analysis, patient outcomes prediction, and healthcare operational efficiency, with graduate students and advanced undergraduates integrated into funded projects. The urban location means students engage with real community challenges, from public health data initiatives to municipal performance metrics, adding a civic dimension absent from purely corporate-focused programs. Internship and job placement rates benefit from the institution's established relationships with major local employers across healthcare, insurance, and technology sectors.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Data Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Data Science — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- IU Health Systems (nonprofit)
- Indiana University School of Medicine (nonprofit)
Location Advantages: Proximity to IU Health and major medical research institutionsCentral Indiana biopharmaceutical sector (Eli Lilly headquarters)Indianapolis financial services and insurance hubAccess to municipal and civic data initiatives
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology — Terre Haute, IN
Key Distinction: Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology offers comprehensive Data Science programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Rose-Hulman's small cohort size and hands-on engineering culture enable intensive mentorship in data engineering—a rarer specialization than pure machine learning, but increasingly valuable in manufacturing-heavy regions.
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology offers Data Science programs in Terre Haute, IN. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
DePauw University — Greencastle, IN
Key Distinction: DePauw University offers comprehensive Data Science programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: DePauw's liberal arts foundation differentiates data scientists for leadership tracks: the curriculum balances technical depth with communication and ethics coursework, appealing to students who see data science as a path to policy or strategy roles.
DePauw University offers Data Science programs in Greencastle, IN. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Butler University — Indianapolis, IN
Key Distinction: Applied capstone-driven curriculum with embedded industry projects and explicit focus on business communication skills, rather than pure technical depth.
Hakia Insight: Butler's capstone-first design forces real business storytelling skills early—students present findings to Eli Lilly and Salesforce stakeholders, building the stakeholder management ability that separates analytics-ready hires from technically strong but untested graduates.
At the bachelor's level, butler's data science program emphasizes applied problem-solving through industry-embedded projects, giving students real-world experience before graduation. The curriculum balances statistical foundations with modern machine learning and cloud computing tools, structured around a capstone sequence where students tackle challenges sourced directly from corporate partners. What distinguishes this approach is the integration of business acumen—students don't just build models; they learn to communicate results to non-technical stakeholders and understand deployment constraints. Faculty maintain active consulting relationships with Indianapolis-area tech firms and healthcare organizations, which directly shapes course content and project assignments. The program particularly shines for students interested in healthcare analytics, financial technology, and business intelligence roles, with graduates regularly placed in analyst and engineer positions at companies leveraging data for strategic decisions. Butler's location in Indianapolis gives students proximity to a growing tech corridor and established pharmaceutical and financial services sectors, creating natural internship and mentorship pipelines.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Data Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Data Science — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Eli Lilly and Company (corporate)
- Indianapolis-area healthcare systems (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Eli Lilly and Company, Salesforce, Rexnord.
Location Advantages: Proximity to Eli Lilly headquarters and Indianapolis pharmaceutical/financial services hub
Ball State University — Muncie, IN
Key Distinction: Ball State emphasizes the business context and communication skills required to move data science insights into corporate decision-making, bridging the gap between technical analytics and organizational strategy.
Hakia Insight: Ball State uniquely positions data science within information systems, emphasizing the operational context of analytics: students graduate understanding how to architect data pipelines and communicate with IT, not just build models—a gap many pure data science programs leave open.
At the bachelor's level, ball State's data science program stands out for its integration of business intelligence and analytics within a broader information systems context, making it particularly strong for students aiming at analytics roles in corporate settings. The curriculum weaves together data visualization, statistical analysis, and data-driven decision-making, with electives allowing concentration in areas like marketing analytics, financial forecasting, or operations research. The program benefits from Ball State's longstanding business school infrastructure and corporate connections, creating a pipeline to consulting firms and mid-market companies seeking analytically trained graduates. Faculty members actively publish in applied analytics journals and maintain consulting relationships, bringing current industry practices into the classroom. What differentiates this path is its explicit attention to the communication and business acumen required to translate analyses into strategy—a gap many pure computer science programs miss. Students engage in capstone projects sponsored by real organizations, building portfolios with business impact. The location in central Indiana provides access to growing tech talent demand in Indianapolis while maintaining lower competition for internships and jobs than larger metros.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Data Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Data Science — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Access to Indianapolis's growing tech and consulting market
University of Evansville — Evansville, IN
Key Distinction: Strong mathematical foundations combined with domain-specialized tracks (industrial, business, environmental) and undergraduate research collaboration opportunities.
Hakia Insight: University of Evansville's domain-specialized tracks (industrial, business, environmental) with mandatory undergraduate research mean students develop publication-ready projects in their chosen sector, giving them a research credential that strengthens graduate school or analytics role applications.
At the bachelor's level, UE's data science curriculum prioritizes statistical rigor and mathematical foundations as the bedrock for machine learning applications, appealing to students who want deep conceptual understanding alongside practical coding skills. The program integrates data science across engineering, business, and liberal arts contexts, allowing students to specialize in domain-specific applications—whether that's predictive maintenance in industrial systems, market forecasting, or environmental modeling. A distinguishing feature is the emphasis on small cohorts and faculty-student research collaboration; undergraduates regularly co-author papers and participate in faculty-led analytics projects. The university's location in southwestern Indiana and connections to regional manufacturing and logistics companies create distinctive internship opportunities in applied industrial analytics. Students complete a senior capstone that often involves real datasets and problems from industry partners, positioning graduates for immediate impact in their first roles.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Data Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Data Science — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Regional manufacturing and logistics firms (corporate)
Location Advantages: Access to regional manufacturing and logistics industry networks
Best Master's Data Science Degree Programs in Indiana
Indiana University-Bloomington — Bloomington, IN
Key Distinction: Online format designed for working professionals to earn degree without leaving job. Same faculty and coursework as residential program
Hakia Insight: Indiana's online MS in Data Science maintains identical faculty and rigor to residential peers—but the real differentiator is the five active research centers remain accessible to remote students, enabling some to co-author publications while employed full-time.
Indiana University-Bloomington's online Master of Science in Data Science is designed for working professionals seeking career advancement without interrupting employment. The program delivers identical coursework and faculty expertise as the residential program through recorded lectures and interactive virtual engagement. Students complete 30 graduate-level credits including 6 core credits, 6 domain area credits, 15 electives, and a 3-credit capstone project with real-world clients. Three specialization tracks are available: Data Analytics and Visualization, Intelligent Systems Engineering, and Cybersecurity. The program emphasizes practical skill application through industry-driven capstone projects, allowing mid-career professionals to demonstrate expertise to employers while advancing earning potential. Flexible scheduling accommodates full-time work, with rolling admissions and multiple start dates throughout the year.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Data Science — Online — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Data to Insight Center
- Digital Science Center
- Center for Bioinformatics Research
- Center for Complex Networks and Systems Research
- Center for Machine Learning
- Cyberinfrastructure for Network Science Center
- Network Science Institute
- Audio Speech and Information REtreival (ASPIRE) Research Group
- Crisis Technologies Innovation Lab
- Observatory on Social Media
- Societal Computing Lab
Industry Partners
- Amazon (employer)
- GoPro (employer)
- Microsoft (employer)
- TikTok (employer)
- Wayfair (employer)
- IBM Research (employer)
- GM (employer)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Amazon, GoPro, Microsoft, TikTok, Wayfair, IBM Research.
Notable Faculty
- Haixu Tang — Data science program direction and graduate program leadership
Location Advantages:
Purdue University-Main Campus — West Lafayette, IN
Key Distinction: 100% online flexible learning with no fixed schedule. Industry capstone partnerships with private, public, and non-profit organizations
Hakia Insight: Purdue's 24-month online format with industry capstone partnerships (not just coursework) means working professionals can design their final project around an actual employer problem, converting two years of study directly into a completed solution they bring back to their current job.
Purdue University's online Master of Science in Data Science is a 30-credit, 24-month program designed for working professionals seeking flexible, 100% online learning. The curriculum balances 18 credits of core coursework (foundations, big data tools, data communication, analytics, machine learning) with 12 credits of elective focus areas in applied statistics, IT business analysis, managing information technologies, or spatial data science. The program culminates in a capstone course requiring students to solve real-world data science problems with private, public, or non-profit partners, providing practical professional experience. Master's degree holders in data science see average salary increases of 25-75% over bachelor's degrees, with median advertised salaries at $124k. The program leverages Purdue's renowned faculty expertise and interdisciplinary approach, allowing customization toward specific career interests. Credits earned through Purdue's Foundations of Data Science Graduate Certificate can be applied toward degree completion, accelerating time-to-degree for some students.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Data Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Science of Information
- Center for Computational and Applied Mathematics
- Merck-Purdue Center for Measurement Science
- Cryo-EM Facility
- CARE Lab
- Digital Innovation in Agri-Food Systems Laboratory
- Laboratory for Applications of Remote Sensing
- Center for Global Soundscapes
Industry Partners
- Merck & Co (partner)
- Indiana CTSI (collaborator)
- Imagination Station at Lafayette (partner)
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (collaborator)
- Kansas State University (collaborator)
- Indiana University Bloomington (collaborator)
- Towson University (collaborator)
- University of Cambridge (collaborator)
- National Centers for Environmental Information (partner)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. William S. Cleveland — Data science and statistics
- Dr. Chris Clifton — Data science and computer science
- Dr. Jennifer Neville — Data science and machine learning
- Dr. Hua Hua Chang — Adaptive testing and individualized instruction
- Dr. Wayne E. Wright — AI in education research
- Dr. Patrick Wolfe — Statistical methods and data science
- Dr. Sanjay Rebello — AI in physics education
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Requirements: 18 credit hours of core courses (Foundations in Data Science, Big Data Tools and Technologies, Cross Domain Data Communication and Visualization, Data Analytics, Applied Machine Learning, Capstone), 12 credit hours from focus areas or electives, Completion of capstone project with real-world data science problem solving
Location Advantages: Access to NSF Science & Technology CentersProximity to agricultural and manufacturing industriesIntegration with Purdue's engineering and agricultural expertise
Purdue University Northwest — Hammond, IN
Key Distinction: Engineering-anchored data science with specialized applications to industrial optimization and manufacturing analytics, directly aligned with the region's dominant employers.
Hakia Insight: Purdue Northwest's masters program targets the steel and refining sectors with specialized industrial optimization content—graduates command premium salaries in supply chain and process engineering roles because they speak both data science and operational manufacturing language fluently.
At the master's level, purdue University Northwest delivers data science education with strong grounding in engineering and applied mathematics, leveraging Purdue's broader reputation while tailoring curriculum to the needs of Northwest Indiana's industrial corridor. The program emphasizes statistical computing, machine learning for manufacturing quality control, and data-driven decision-making in engineering contexts—areas where regional employers like ArcelorMittal and refinery operations actively recruit. Student projects frequently involve real datasets from partner companies, providing both portfolio-building opportunities and direct networking with hiring managers. The engineering focus means graduates are well-prepared for roles in predictive maintenance, process optimization, and industrial automation—niches where they compete effectively against computer science-only graduates. Purdue Northwest also benefits from access to Purdue's broader alumni network and resources while maintaining the localized industry connections that make recruitment immediate and placement rates strong.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Data Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Data Science — 1-2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Federal, State and Local Governments, Nonprofit Organizations, Finance Companies.
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited engineering programs (parent institution)
Location Advantages: Proximity to ArcelorMittal and steel manufacturing operationsAccess to refinery and petrochemical analytics demandsPurdue main campus resources and connections
Purdue University Fort Wayne — Fort Wayne, IN
Key Distinction: Purdue Fort Wayne combines engineering rigor with direct industry engagement through regional manufacturer partnerships, producing graduates with both theoretical depth and immediate workplace relevance.
Hakia Insight: Purdue Fort Wayne's regional manufacturer partnerships create a tight feedback loop: curriculum adapts to real problems companies submit, ensuring graduates possess skills for immediate deployment rather than generic analytics knowledge.
At the master's level, purdue Fort Wayne's data science curriculum emphasizes practical application and industry-ready skills, with a strong engineering foundation that distinguishes it from purely theoretical programs. The program integrates machine learning, statistical modeling, and data engineering across a carefully sequenced pathway, allowing students to build depth in specialized areas like predictive analytics or big data technologies. Faculty bring applied research experience from both academia and industry, creating classroom instruction grounded in real-world problem-solving. Partnerships with regional manufacturers and logistics companies—critical sectors in Northeast Indiana—provide internship and capstone project opportunities where students work on genuine business challenges. The program's strength lies in its balance: rigorous mathematics and computer science fundamentals paired with hands-on labs and industry mentorship. Graduates report strong placement in technical roles across manufacturing, supply chain analytics, and financial services, often staying in the Midwest region where demand for data talent is growing but competition is lower than coastal tech hubs.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Data Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Data Science — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Proximity to major manufacturing and logistics hubs in Northeast Indiana
Indiana University-Indianapolis — Indianapolis, IN
Key Distinction: Thesis vs. coursework tracks: Thesis option (6 credits, publishable research with faculty advisor over 2 semesters) available for highly motivated students; non-thesis students complete 12 elective credits. Flexible course substitution accommodating special interests and scheduling needs, including online course options
Hakia Insight: IU Indianapolis's thesis option with faculty advisors over two semesters creates an unusual advantage for career-changers: motivated students can publish research in healthcare or biopharmaceutical journals before graduation, a credential that accelerates hiring in those competitive sectors.
The Master of Science in Applied Data Science at Indiana University-Indianapolis is a 30-credit program designed for working professionals seeking career advancement in data-driven roles. Students choose between a thesis track (6 credits, publishable research with faculty advisor) or coursework-only option (12 elective credits), both completable in approximately 2 years. The curriculum combines six core courses in data science fundamentals—including programming, statistics, database design, statistical learning, cloud computing, and mathematical foundations—with four elective courses offering specialization in machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, visualization, and domain-specific applications. The program emphasizes practical skills through diverse electives spanning computer science, economics, bioinformatics, health informatics, and public health. While specific salary data and assistantship details are not provided in available materials, the program targets mid-career professionals seeking technical expertise for advancement into data science, analytics, and machine learning roles. Students benefit from flexible course sequencing and substitute course options accommodating varied backgrounds and scheduling needs.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Applied Data Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Industry Partners
- IU Health Systems (nonprofit)
- Indiana University School of Medicine (nonprofit)
Location Advantages: Proximity to IU Health and major medical research institutionsCentral Indiana biopharmaceutical sector (Eli Lilly headquarters)Indianapolis financial services and insurance hubAccess to municipal and civic data initiatives
Saint Mary's College — Notre Dame, IN
Key Distinction: A liberal arts-grounded data science education that weaves ethical AI and stakeholder communication into technical training, differentiating it from purely engineering-focused competitors.
Hakia Insight: Saint Mary's dual MS/MA structure lets students choose between a statistics-heavy or humanities-focused path without sacrificing technical depth—a rarity that lets philosophy majors and engineers graduate from the same program without compromise.
At the master's level, saint Mary's College's data science program emphasizes applied analytics rooted in liberal arts rigor, making it distinctive for students who value both technical depth and broad contextual understanding. The curriculum balances foundational mathematics and statistics with hands-on experience in real-world datasets, guided by faculty who actively mentor students through capstone projects tied to regional business challenges. What sets this program apart is its integration of ethical reasoning and responsible AI principles alongside technical training—students don't just learn algorithms, they examine their societal implications. The college's location in Indiana and its strong alumni network in consulting and business intelligence firms create internship and recruitment pathways that smaller, specialized data science programs often lack. Graduates emerge with portfolios demonstrating both coding proficiency and the communication skills necessary to translate analytical findings for non-technical stakeholders, an advantage in competitive job markets where technical skills alone are table stakes.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Data Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Data Science — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages:
Ball State University — Muncie, IN
Key Distinction: Ball State emphasizes the business context and communication skills required to move data science insights into corporate decision-making, bridging the gap between technical analytics and organizational strategy.
Hakia Insight: Ball State's emphasis on translating analytics into board-room decisions addresses the industry's actual pain point: 70% of data projects fail not from bad models, but from poor stakeholder communication, which this program embeds into every course.
At the master's level, ball State's data science program stands out for its integration of business intelligence and analytics within a broader information systems context, making it particularly strong for students aiming at analytics roles in corporate settings. The curriculum weaves together data visualization, statistical analysis, and data-driven decision-making, with electives allowing concentration in areas like marketing analytics, financial forecasting, or operations research. The program benefits from Ball State's longstanding business school infrastructure and corporate connections, creating a pipeline to consulting firms and mid-market companies seeking analytically trained graduates. Faculty members actively publish in applied analytics journals and maintain consulting relationships, bringing current industry practices into the classroom. What differentiates this path is its explicit attention to the communication and business acumen required to translate analyses into strategy—a gap many pure computer science programs miss. Students engage in capstone projects sponsored by real organizations, building portfolios with business impact. The location in central Indiana provides access to growing tech talent demand in Indianapolis while maintaining lower competition for internships and jobs than larger metros.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Data Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Data Science — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Access to Indianapolis's growing tech and consulting market
Indiana State University — Terre Haute, IN
Key Distinction: Indiana State prioritizes mathematical rigor and computational theory, building data scientists who can both implement and innovate in algorithms and statistical methods.
Hakia Insight: Indiana State graduates emerge with genuine algorithm literacy—rare at the master's level, where most programs treat mathematical foundations as prerequisites rather than curriculum—positioning them to lead in research-driven roles competitors can only apply for.
At the master's level, indiana State's data science offerings emerge from its computer science and mathematics departments, with particular strength in the mathematical foundations and algorithms that underpin modern analytics. The program carefully develops students' abilities in linear algebra, statistical theory, and computational methods before advancing to machine learning and specialized applications—an approach that attracts students seeking depth over breadth. Faculty research spans areas including applied mathematics, distributed computing, and optimization, and graduate students often engage in funded research projects that double as learning opportunities. The program maintains partnerships with regional employers in healthcare, energy, and public sector analytics, creating internship pathways and real-world research collaborations. For students pursuing advanced degrees or roles requiring strong mathematical reasoning—such as quantitative research or algorithm development—Indiana State's emphasis on theoretical foundations provides competitive advantage. The environment supports close faculty-student mentorship, common at regional comprehensive universities, allowing students to build publications and research credentials alongside technical skills.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Data Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Data Science — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages:
Best Doctoral Data Science Degree Programs in Indiana
Purdue University-Main Campus — West Lafayette, IN
Key Distinction: Purdue's data science program uniquely combines traditional statistical excellence with innovative AI research across education, agriculture, and engineering domains, leveraging NSF Science & Technology Centers and multidisciplinary faculty expertise.
Hakia Insight: Purdue's dual affiliation with the Center for Science of Information and partnerships with Merck means doctoral students don't just study data science theory; they contribute to NSF-funded research that shapes how information itself is measured and optimized across industries.
At the doctoral level, 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.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Data Science — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Data Science — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Science of Information
- Center for Computational and Applied Mathematics
- Merck-Purdue Center for Measurement Science
- Cryo-EM Facility
- CARE Lab
- Digital Innovation in Agri-Food Systems Laboratory
- Laboratory for Applications of Remote Sensing
- Center for Global Soundscapes
Industry Partners
- Merck & Co (partner)
- Indiana CTSI (collaborator)
- Imagination Station at Lafayette (partner)
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (collaborator)
- Kansas State University (collaborator)
- Indiana University Bloomington (collaborator)
- Towson University (collaborator)
- University of Cambridge (collaborator)
- National Centers for Environmental Information (partner)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. William S. Cleveland — Data science and statistics
- Dr. Chris Clifton — Data science and computer science
- Dr. Jennifer Neville — Data science and machine learning
- Dr. Hua Hua Chang — Adaptive testing and individualized instruction
- Dr. Wayne E. Wright — AI in education research
- Dr. Patrick Wolfe — Statistical methods and data science
- Dr. Sanjay Rebello — AI in physics education
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Location Advantages: Access to NSF Science & Technology CentersProximity to agricultural and manufacturing industriesIntegration with Purdue's engineering and agricultural expertise
Indiana University-Bloomington — Bloomington, IN
Key Distinction: The program uniquely combines theoretical foundations with practical applications across interdisciplinary research areas, preparing holistically trained experts with the vision and skills to use data to solve problems and transform industries.
Hakia Insight: IU Bloomington's placement of top doctoral graduates at Amazon, Microsoft, and TikTok reflects something deeper: the Data to Insight Center operates as a talent pipeline, not a research silo, where students solve real company problems before they graduate.
At the doctoral level, 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.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Data Science — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Data Science — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Data to Insight Center
- Digital Science Center
- Center for Bioinformatics Research
- Center for Complex Networks and Systems Research
- Center for Machine Learning
- Cyberinfrastructure for Network Science Center
- Network Science Institute
- Audio Speech and Information REtreival (ASPIRE) Research Group
- Crisis Technologies Innovation Lab
- Observatory on Social Media
- Societal Computing Lab
Industry Partners
- Amazon (employer)
- GoPro (employer)
- Microsoft (employer)
- TikTok (employer)
- Wayfair (employer)
- IBM Research (employer)
- GM (employer)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Amazon, GoPro, Microsoft, TikTok, Wayfair, IBM Research.
Notable Faculty
- Haixu Tang — Data science program direction and graduate program leadership
Location Advantages:
Indiana University-Indianapolis — Indianapolis, IN
Key Distinction: Healthcare analytics and civic data science integration in a research-active urban setting, uniquely positioned within Indiana University's medical and health systems ecosystem.
Hakia Insight: Within shouting distance of Eli Lilly headquarters and IU Health's sprawling medical systems, IU Indianapolis doctoral candidates have access to healthcare datasets and industry collaborators that most programs only read about in case studies.
At the doctoral level, IU Indianapolis's data science program is embedded within a research-active urban campus serving one of the Midwest's largest metropolitan economies, positioning students at the intersection of healthcare informatics, business analytics, and civic data science. The program differentiates itself through deep partnerships with Indiana University School of Medicine, IU Health Systems, and Indianapolis-based financial services and technology firms—creating direct pipelines into healthcare analytics and business intelligence roles. Faculty conduct applied research on electronic health records analysis, patient outcomes prediction, and healthcare operational efficiency, with graduate students and advanced undergraduates integrated into funded projects. The urban location means students engage with real community challenges, from public health data initiatives to municipal performance metrics, adding a civic dimension absent from purely corporate-focused programs. Internship and job placement rates benefit from the institution's established relationships with major local employers across healthcare, insurance, and technology sectors.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Data Science — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Data Science — 4-6 years, online
Industry Partners
- IU Health Systems (nonprofit)
- Indiana University School of Medicine (nonprofit)
Location Advantages: Proximity to IU Health and major medical research institutionsCentral Indiana biopharmaceutical sector (Eli Lilly headquarters)Indianapolis financial services and insurance hubAccess to municipal and civic data initiatives
