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Key Takeaways
Best data science degree programs: Louisiana State Universit..., Tulane University of Loui..., U of Louisiana at Lafayette
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $2,618 to $61,306/year
Baton Rouge Community Col... offers the most affordable option at $3,237/yr
Data Science degree programs available: 3 associate's, 6 master's, 3 doctoral in Louisiana
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
2 online data science degree programs in Louisiana
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Louisiana community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
3 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: CenturyLink, Geocent, iSeatz, Lucid
Tech hubs in New Orleans and Baton Rouge
Hakia Research 2026
Data Science degree programs near 32+ cities across Louisiana
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Louisiana Data Science programs
We rank 25 accredited data science programs in Louisiana 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 Louisiana Worth It?
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Data Science Degree Rankings in Louisiana
Compare the top-ranked Data Science programs in Louisiana by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Data Science Programs in Louisiana
Program Landscape
Louisiana offers 3 accredited associate's degree programs in data science, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Baton Rouge Community Col..., Southern University at Sh..., Louisiana Delta Community..., which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Louisiana offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $3,023/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 $48,818 in Louisiana.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Louisiana's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like CenturyLink, Geocent, iSeatz 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 Louisiana, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their data science degrees in Louisiana.
Best Bachelor's Data Science Programs in Louisiana
Program Landscape
Louisiana ranks among the nation's top destinations for data science education, with 13 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 10 public and 3 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Louisiana State Universit..., Tulane University of Loui..., U of Louisiana at Lafayette, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Louisiana data science programs earn a median salary of $75,446, 23% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including CenturyLink, Geocent, iSeatz.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $4,973 to $61,306 annually, with an average of $12,627/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 84%, with the highest reaching 99%. 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 Louisiana's leading technology employers. For students seeking data science degrees in Louisiana, these top-ranked data science schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Show all 13 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | University of New Orleans | New Orleans, LA | Public | $6,090 | — | 57.3 |
| #7 | Southern University and A & M College | Baton Rouge, LA | Public | $4,973 | 75% | 53.2 |
| #8 | McNeese State University | Lake Charles, LA | Public | $5,147 | — | 47.7 |
| #9 | University of Louisiana at Monroe | Monroe, LA | Public | $5,788 | — | 43.2 |
| #10 | Louisiana State University-Shreveport | Shreveport, LA | Public | $5,656 | — | 43.1 |
| #11 | Southeastern Louisiana University | Hammond, LA | Public | $5,777 | — | 42.5 |
| #12 | Xavier University of Louisiana | New Orleans, LA | Private | $24,836 | — | 39.5 |
| #13 | Louisiana Christian University | Pineville, LA | Private | $19,590 | — | 32.0 |
Best Master's Data Science Programs in Louisiana
Program Landscape
Louisiana offers 6 master's degree programs in data science, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Southern University and A..., Louisiana Tech, U of Louisiana at Lafayette, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Louisiana earn a median salary of $88,760, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with CenturyLink, Geocent, iSeatz 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 $15,369/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 Louisiana's data science schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
Southern University and A & M College
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
Show all 6 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Tulane University of Louisiana | New Orleans, LA | Private | $61,306 | — | 49.3 |
Best Doctoral Data Science Programs in Louisiana
Program Landscape
Louisiana is home to 3 doctoral programs in data science, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at U of Louisiana at Lafayette, Louisiana State Universit..., Tulane University of Loui... are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Louisiana PhD holders earning a median of $110,950, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like CenturyLink, Geocent, iSeatz.
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 Louisiana programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing data science degrees in Louisiana, 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.
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
Data Science Degree Costs & Tuition in Louisiana
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $10,826/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $27,065/year |
| Community college tuition | $2,707/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $64,956 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $16,238 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Data Science Students in Louisiana
State Aid Programs
Louisiana students pursuing data science degrees have access to substantial state and federal financial aid programs. The primary state grant program is the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS), which covers tuition at Louisiana public institutions for qualifying students. TOPS is a flagship merit-based program that significantly reduces the financial burden for eligible residents attending 27 institutions offering data science programs across the state, from associate's through doctoral degrees. Beyond TOPS, students can access federal aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which opens access to Pell Grants, federal loans, and work-study opportunities. The average public in-state tuition for four-year institutions in Louisiana is just $5,873 annually, making the state one of the most affordable regions for higher education.
Key Programs & Amounts
Individual institutions also offer competitive scholarships and institutional aid packages. For example, Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College, the state's leading data science program with 173 completions, provides merit scholarships and need-based aid tailored to data science students. Students should complete the FAFSA early and contact their institution's financial aid office to explore institutional scholarships, assistantships, and employer sponsorship programs. The Louisiana Board of Regents coordinates financial aid policy across the state system. For comprehensive information on federal aid eligibility and application procedures, visit Federal Student Aid. Compare total cost of attendance across top-ranked programs and most affordable options to maximize aid opportunities.
Data Science Degree ROI Calculator, Louisiana
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a data science degree in Louisiana. 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 Louisiana metro areas
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| New Orleans | $98K |
| Baton Rouge | $93K |
| Shreveport | $89K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Data Science Graduates in Louisiana
Find data science jobs in Louisiana. These major employers across Louisiana metro areas are actively hiring data science degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Data Science Jobs in New Orleans
LAData Science Jobs in Baton Rouge
LAData Science Jobs in Shreveport
LATransfer Pathways for Data Science Degrees in Louisiana
State Transfer System
Louisiana provides structured transfer pathways for students pursuing data science degrees through the Louisiana Board of Regents Transfer Framework (Louisiana Board of Regents Transfer Framework), which establishes statewide transfer agreements between institutions. This framework ensures that credits earned at Louisiana's 29 two-year institutions, including Baton Rouge Community College, Southern University at Shreveport, and Louisiana Delta Community College, transfer seamlessly to the state's 35 four-year universities. Associate's degree programs in data science at community colleges provide an affordable entry point, with average tuition starting at just $2,618 at Southern University at Shreveport, making the pathway accessible for cost-conscious students who can then transfer to bachelor's programs at major universities like Louisiana State University or University of Louisiana at Lafayette.
How Transfers Work
Articulation agreements between two-year and four-year institutions guarantee that students completing associate's degrees in data science or related fields receive credit for core coursework when transferring. Students earning an associate's degree at Baton Rouge Community College (ranked #1 for affordability at $3,237 tuition) can transfer guaranteed credits toward bachelor's programs at Louisiana Tech University or University of New Orleans, eliminating redundant coursework and reducing total degree costs. The transfer framework simplifies the process for students who begin at community colleges and progress to master's programs, creating a clear pathway from entry-level to advanced credentials. For additional guidance on transfer processes and state financial aid, consult Federal Student Aid. Explore data analytics and computer science pathways for complementary transfer options within Louisiana's interconnected higher education system.
Why Pursue a Data Science Degree in Louisiana?
Industry & Workforce
Louisiana offers a strong and growing data science education landscape with 27 institutions offering programs across all degree levels (IPEDS). In 2023, the state awarded 486 bachelor's degrees, 158 master's degrees, 18 doctoral degrees, and 17 associate's degrees in data science, demonstrating strong institutional commitment to the field. Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College leads the state with 173 completions, followed by Southern University and A & M College with 100 completions, making these institutions regional powerhouses for data science education.
Salary Outlook
The state's affordability stands out significantly compared to national averages. Average public in-state tuition at four-year institutions is just $5,873, while out-of-state tuition averages $11,605, making Louisiana an accessible option for domestic and international students. Major employers including Ochsner Health System, Walmart, and Entergy provide strong career pathways in cities like New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Lafayette. Additionally, Louisiana's financial aid landscape is enhanced through the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS), which covers tuition at qualifying public institutions (TOPS Program). Explore related fields like data analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to expand your career opportunities in Louisiana's growing tech sector.
Data Science Program Availability in Louisiana
Source: IPEDS 2024
Data Science Job Market & Salary Data in Louisiana
Employment Outlook
Louisiana's data science job market is experiencing steady growth, with opportunities concentrated across the state's major metropolitan areas. The most active hiring centers are New Orleans-Metairie, Baton Rouge, and Shreveport-Bossier City, where healthcare, energy, and retail sectors drive demand for data professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Louisiana's employment landscape continues to expand in data-related roles, particularly in cities like New Orleans and Lafayette where major employers maintain significant operations. The state's position as a healthcare and energy hub creates unique opportunities for data scientists to work on critical industry challenges.
Salaries by Metro
Educational institutions are producing a substantial pipeline of data science talent to meet this demand. Louisiana's colleges and universities awarded 679 completions in data science across all degree levels in 2023, including 486 bachelor's degrees, 158 master's degrees, 18 doctoral degrees, and 17 associate's degrees (IPEDS). This strong output reflects strong institutional investment in data science programs across the state's 27 institutions offering data science credentials. Students graduating from Louisiana's programs benefit from the state's relatively affordable public tuition, averaging $5,873 for in-state four-year institutions, making the path to a data science career accessible to diverse student populations. Career advancement opportunities are particularly strong for graduates from Louisiana Tech University, Louisiana State University, and University of Louisiana at Lafayette, which collectively produce a significant share of the state's data science talent.
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 Louisiana
Online Programs
2 available in Louisiana
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Compare Data Science Programs in Other States
- Total Programs
- 77
- Median Tuition
- $8,700
- Total Programs
- 14
- Median Tuition
- $7,700
- Total Programs
- 13
- Median Tuition
- $9,700
- Total Programs
- 180
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
- Total Programs
- 43
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
- Total Programs
- 120
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
- Total Programs
- 71
- Median Tuition
- $47,600
- Total Programs
- 33
- Median Tuition
- $11,400
Data Science Degree Programs in Louisiana: FAQ
What are the best data science degree programs in Louisiana?
How much do data science degree programs cost in Louisiana?
What salary can data science degree graduates earn in Louisiana?
Are there online data science degree programs in Louisiana?
What companies hire data science degree graduates in Louisiana?
Is a data science degree program worth it in Louisiana?
How long do data science degree programs take in Louisiana?
What financial aid is available for data science degree students in Louisiana?
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Louisiana 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.