Best Associate's Data Science Degree Programs in Michigan
Davenport University — Grand Rapids, MI
Key Distinction: Davenport's unique five-year BS to MS combined pathway allows students to earn both undergraduate and graduate degrees with 12 fewer credits than traditional programs, completing advanced data science education a full year sooner while working with real company data throughout their studies.
Hakia Insight: Davenport's integrated five-year BS-to-MS pathway compresses what typically takes six years into five while maintaining real company data exposure throughout, meaning graduates reach professional salary trajectories ($141.8K median) a full academic year ahead of peers at comparable regional institutions.
At the associate's level, davenport University's Data Science program offers comprehensive pathways from undergraduate through graduate levels, including a unique BS in Data Science and Analytics (120 credits), MS in Data Analytics (30 credits), and an accelerated BS to MS combined program that saves students time and money. The program emphasizes experiential learning with real company data, developing skills in data mining, visualization, predictive analysis, and machine learning. Students gain proficiency in industry-standard software including SQL, R Programming, IBM SPSS Statistics, Tableau, and RStudio. The program is designed for both those with and without data backgrounds, offering 100% online options through Davenport's Global Campus. Courses align with Quality Matters standards and are taught by industry experts with real-world experience.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Data Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Data Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $141,817.
Accreditations and Certifications
- Quality Matters (QM) rubric alignment
Location Advantages: Multiple Michigan campus locationsGlobal Campus online optionDetroitGrand RapidsWarrenKalamazooLansingTraverse City
Monroe County Community College — Monroe, MI
Key Distinction: MCCC's Data Analytics program uniquely offers two specialized tracks - business analytics and data science - within a single associate degree, allowing students to tailor their education to specific career interests while meeting demonstrated regional employer demand.
Hakia Insight: MCCC's dual-track associate degree—business analytics vs. data science within one credential—reflects genuine regional employer segmentation in Southeast Michigan, allowing students to signal specialization without the cost or time commitment of completing separate certificates.
At the associate's level, monroe County Community College's Data Analytics program is an associate of applied science degree designed to provide practical and theoretical preparation for positions in business analytics or data science. The program offers two distinct tracks - business analytics and data science - allowing students to specialize based on their interests and career goals. As one of 10 new academic programs launched by MCCC in Fall 2024, this program directly addresses regional employer needs and growing market demand. In Michigan, employment in the data analytics field is expected to grow by 7 percent by 2028, with more than 30,000 individuals currently employed in this field and nearly 1,900 job postings annually. The field experienced 10.5 percent growth statewide from 2021-24 and is positioned for continued expansion. Students complete required general education courses alongside specialized core coursework, preparing them for immediate entry into the workforce upon graduation.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Data Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Data Science — 2 years, online
Notable Faculty
- Beverly C. Tomek — Business Division leadership
Top Transfer Destinations
- Wayne State University
- Eastern Michigan University
- University of Michigan-Dearborn
- Michigan State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Data Analyst
- Quality Assurance Analyst
- Production Analyst
- Logistics Analyst
- Manufacturing Engineer (data-focused)
- Healthcare Data Technician
Included Certifications
- Microsoft Excel Advanced certification
- CompTIA A+ (foundational IT)
- Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt (manufacturing focus)
Location Advantages: Located in Monroe, Michigan serving Southeast Michigan regional employersPart of comprehensive community college offering multiple pathways for career advancement
Henry Ford College — Dearborn, MI
Key Distinction: The program offers industry-partnered curriculum design with access to Microsoft's MSDN Academic Alliance providing free professional development software, combined with comprehensive coverage of all major IT specializations in a supportive small class environment.
Hakia Insight: Henry Ford College's Microsoft MSDN Academic Alliance access means students graduate with legally-licensed, professional-grade development tools already installed on their machines—eliminating the common first-job friction where community college graduates must learn different software stacks than they trained on.
At the associate's level, henry Ford College's Computer Information Systems (CIS) program provides comprehensive training across multiple IT disciplines including programming, database development, PC repair, networking, operating systems, security, web development, and system analysis and design. The program features small class sizes with dedicated faculty, hands-on laboratory work using current industry technologies like PHP, MySQL, Oracle, .NET, Java, and Mobile Application Development. As a member of Microsoft's MSDN Academic Alliance Program, students receive free access to professional development software and tools. The curriculum is designed with industry partner input to ensure relevance and practical application. Students develop both technical expertise and essential workplace skills including teamwork, decision-making, resource allocation, and leadership capabilities, preparing them for immediate workforce entry or seamless transfer to four-year universities.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Data Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Data Science — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
Notable Faculty
- David Maier — Computer Information Systems
- Kimberly Moscardelli — Computer Information Systems
Location Advantages: Small class sizesDedicated and caring facultyHands-on laboratory experience with current industry technology
Glen Oaks Community College — Centreville, MI
Key Distinction: Glen Oaks Community College provides a structured CCNA certification preparation track through its three-course Cisco sequence, combined with hands-on programming and network security training in a supportive community college environment.
Hakia Insight: Glen Oaks' embedded Cisco three-course sequence isn't an add-on; it's a structured pathway to CCNA certification within the associate degree itself, making network security credentials stackable for students pursuing data engineering roles in Southwest Michigan's manufacturing sector.
At the associate's level, glen Oaks Community College offers computer and information technology programs designed to provide foundational skills in computing, networking, and programming. The college features a comprehensive Computer Information Systems (CIS) curriculum including courses in basic computer concepts, Microsoft Office applications, Cisco networking (CCNA preparation track with CIS-112, 113, and 114), and Visual Basic programming. Students can pursue an Associate of Arts in Computer Science focused on programming skills, algorithm design, and data structures. The program emphasizes hands-on learning with current productivity software and network configuration within Windows operating systems. All CIS courses include lab fees for practical application. The college serves Southwest Michigan and focuses on preparing students for entry-level positions in IT support, network administration, and programming roles.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Data Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Data Science — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
Accreditations and Certifications
- CCNA Certification Preparation
Top Transfer Destinations
- Western Michigan University
- Michigan State University
- University of Michigan
- University of Michigan-Kalamazoo
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Data Analyst
- Business Analyst
- Quality Assurance Analyst
- Retail Analytics Technician
- Supply Chain Analyst (entry-level)
Included Certifications
- Microsoft Office Specialist certification
- Google Analytics certification (or similar)
- Tableau fundamentals
Location Advantages: Serves Southwest Michigan regionCommunity college affordability
Best Bachelor's Data Science Degree Programs in Michigan
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, MI
Key Distinction: 100% of students complete real-world client projects as part of curriculum. Partnerships with industry, nonprofit, and educational organizations for hands-on experience
Hakia Insight: Michigan's School of Information requirement that 100% of BSI students complete real-world client projects means every graduate has portfolio work from actual nonprofit, industry, or educational organizations—a competitive edge over peers whose capstones are hypothetical case studies.
The Bachelor of Science in Information (BSI) at University of Michigan's School of Information is an interdisciplinary program combining technology and data with human behavior understanding. Students choose between two pathways: Information Analysis or User Experience Design. The curriculum emphasizes engaged learning with 100% of students completing real-world client projects through partnerships with industry, nonprofit, and educational organizations. The program integrates technical skills in programming and data manipulation with courses in psychology, business, communications, and ethics. BSI graduates pursue careers as UX designers, data analysts, product managers, and business consultants across tech, finance, healthcare, startups, and government. The program offers dedicated career development support including personalized coaching, internship courses, and on-campus recruiting.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Eytan Adar — Data science and visualization
- Dr. Eric Gilbert — Social computing and data analysis
- Dr. Qiaozhu Mei — Data mining and machine learning
- Dr. Mark Newman — Network analysis and complex systems
- Dr. Christopher Brooks — Learning analytics and educational data science
- Dr. Ceren Budak — Social media analytics and computational social science
- Dr. Dallas Card — Natural language processing and machine learning
- Dr. VG Vinod Vydiswaran — Health informatics and medical data science
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.4 for honors admission. Application Deadline: Fall: July 15, Winter: November 15, Spring/Summer: March 15.
Location Advantages:
Michigan Technological University — Houghton, MI
Key Distinction: Four technical focus area concentrations (Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, Statistics, Business Technology). Student-run Enterprise teams providing end-to-end original product development with real-world experience
Hakia Insight: Michigan Tech's student-run Enterprise teams producing end-to-end original products, combined with Argonne National Laboratory partnerships, position undergraduates to co-author research on cutting-edge computing infrastructure before they graduate—a pathway typically reserved for graduate students elsewhere.
Michigan Tech's Bachelor of Science in Data Science prepares students for careers in one of the nation's fastest-growing fields. The program delivers broad-based education in data science fundamentals, data mining, predictive analytics, communication, and ethics, with hands-on learning using real-world datasets and examples. Students build technical skills in Python programming, data visualization, table operations, sampling, and testing/debugging. The program offers four technical focus areas—Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, Statistics, and Business Technology—allowing students to tailor their degree to career goals. Michigan Tech emphasizes student-run Enterprise teams providing end-to-end product development experience, peer mentoring through the unique Student Academic Mentors (SAM) program, and faculty-mentored research opportunities. Graduates work at Fortune 500 companies including Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Adobe, Apple, and IBM in roles such as Data Scientist, Data Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, and Business Intelligence Developer. The mean entry-level salary is $87,943 with a mean annual wage of $124,590, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts 34% employment growth in data science from 2024 to 2034.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Data Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Institute of Computing and Cybersystems
Industry Partners
- Argonne National Laboratory (government)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Adobe, Amazon, Apple, Google, IBM, Microsoft, Intel, Oracle.
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (Computer Science)
Location Advantages: Strong ties to automotive industry (Ford, General Motors nearby)Access to advanced computing infrastructureNational lab partnerships (Argonne)
Michigan State University — East Lansing, MI
Key Distinction: MSU's data science program uniquely combines traditional computational approaches with innovative applications in human rights investigations and global security, while maintaining strong industry partnerships and interdisciplinary research spanning 20 specialized laboratories.
Hakia Insight: MSU's data science program spans 20+ specialized labs but distinguishes itself through human rights and global security applications (beyond typical industry partnerships), making it the rare undergraduate program where students can build credentials in socially-oriented data work rather than purely commercial analytics.
Michigan State University's Bachelor of Science in Data Science prepares students with a comprehensive foundation in computational techniques, mathematical modeling, data manipulation, statistical thinking, and ethical considerations in data science. The program is designed to develop graduates into data scientists, machine learning engineers, and quantitative scientists capable of solving real-world problems and communicating complex analyses across professional contexts. Students develop critical thinking and innovation skills through coursework in data curation, analysis, algorithm development, predictive modeling, and visualization. The curriculum emphasizes both technical competency and ethical awareness of data's human implications, positioning graduates for leadership roles in data-driven industries.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Data Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Data Science and Engineering Laboratory
- Data Mining and Knowledge Discovery Lab
- Intelligent Data Analytics Lab
- Human Rights Data Science Lab
- Computer Vision Laboratory
- Biometrics Research Group
- Human Analysis Lab
- Optimization and Trustworthy ML Group
- Genomic Analysis Lab
- Digital Evolution Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Echo Global Logistics (employer)
- Arthrex (employer)
- UWM (United Wholesale Mortgage) (employer)
- Aldi (employer)
- Clark Schaefer Hackett (employer)
- Jackson (employer)
- Oakland County Government (employer)
- Sachse Construction (employer)
- NSF (sponsor)
- DARPA (sponsor)
- ONR (sponsor)
- DOE (sponsor)
- NIH (sponsor)
- AFOSR (sponsor)
- NASA (sponsor)
- NSA (sponsor)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Jiliang Tang — Data science and engineering
- Dr. Pang-Ning Tan — Data mining and machine learning algorithms
- Dr. Jiayu Zhou — Machine learning and data analytics
- Dr. Anil Jain — Biometrics and pattern recognition
- Dr. Xiaoming Liu — Computer vision and deep learning
- Prof. Robert Brathwaite — Human rights data science
Location Advantages:
Eastern Michigan University — Ypsilanti, MI
Key Distinction: Practitioner-focused data science program with flexible scheduling and applied curriculum designed for working professionals and career-switchers entering Midwest business analytics roles.
Hakia Insight: Eastern Michigan's explicit design for working professionals and career-changers, paired with Detroit metro proximity to finance/insurance/healthcare hubs, creates a regional ecosystem where students can negotiate flexible internships and capstones around full-time employment—a practical edge most traditional programs don't accommodate.
At the bachelor's level, eastern Michigan's data science program targets working professionals and career-changers through flexible delivery and applied curriculum design. The program prioritizes accessibility and real-world relevance, with courses structured around industry-standard tools and techniques in SQL, Python, and cloud platforms. Students engage with capstone projects anchored in local business problems, creating direct pathways to employment in the Detroit metro area's growing analytics sector. The program is particularly strong for students balancing full-time work with education, offering evening and hybrid formats that don't compromise on rigor. Faculty bring industry experience alongside academic credentials, emphasizing the translation of data science theory into immediate business value. Outcomes lean toward business analytics, financial services, healthcare analytics, and retail—sectors dominant in Michigan's regional economy—where EMU graduates build strong professional networks.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Data Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Data Science — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Detroit metro proximity—major finance, insurance, and healthcare hubStrong regional employer base for internships and employmentAccess to Michigan's automotive and manufacturing analytics demand
University of Michigan-Dearborn — Dearborn, MI
Key Distinction: UM-Dearborn's data science program uniquely combines engineering discipline with automotive industry integration, producing graduates job-ready for manufacturing, supply chain, and vehicle technology roles.
Hakia Insight: UM-Dearborn graduates don't just learn data science; they enter Ford and GM recruiting pipelines with hands-on manufacturing and supply chain context, making them immediately deployable in roles that require both technical rigor and industry-specific domain knowledge competitors lack.
At the bachelor's level, UM-Dearborn's data science program leverages the university's deep ties to automotive engineering and manufacturing innovation, positioning students at the intersection of traditional engineering rigor and modern AI/ML practice. The curriculum balances statistical foundations with practical implementation in Python and R, emphasizing how data science integrates into product development, supply chain optimization, and predictive maintenance—domains where the school has decades of industry credibility. Capstone projects and internships frequently connect students with Ford, General Motors, and Tier 1 suppliers who are actively transforming operations through data. Faculty research spans applied machine learning, big data systems, and domain-specific applications like autonomous vehicle perception and manufacturing quality control. Graduates report strong placement in automotive and adjacent industries, with many transitioning directly from internships into full-time roles. The school's location in Dearborn, essentially part of the Detroit metro, means recruiting visits from engineering firms are routine and the local talent market is voracious for analytically trained graduates.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Data Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Data Science — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Ford Motor Company (corporate)
- General Motors (corporate)
Location Advantages: Located in Dearborn, hub of automotive engineering and innovationDirect access to Ford, GM, and supplier recruiting and internship pipelinesProximity to Detroit-area tech and data companies
Western Michigan University — Kalamazoo, MI
Key Distinction: This interdisciplinary program uniquely combines expertise from both Statistics and Computer Science departments, providing comprehensive training in both statistical methods and big data processing technologies. The program offers an innovative Accelerated Graduate Degree Program allowing current WMU undergraduates to complete their master's degree within 24 months of their bachelor's completion.
Hakia Insight: Western Michigan's joint Statistics-Computer Science curriculum, paired with its 24-month accelerated master's option for current undergraduates, allows students to earn both a bachelor's and master's in data science while still in their early twenties—compressing a typical 5-6 year pathway into a single institution.
At the bachelor's level, western Michigan University's Data Science program is an interdisciplinary Master of Science degree offered jointly by the Department of Statistics (COAS) and the Department of Computer Science (CEAS), housed in the Department of Statistics. This program addresses the high demand for data scientists by developing students' skills to tackle current and future complex data challenges. Students learn to store and access data from various heterogeneous sources, process Big Data architecture, apply analytic techniques and algorithms including statistical and data mining methods to large complex datasets, utilize relevant environments for data processing and visualization, work in collaborative teams, and communicate effectively. The program requires a minimum of 30 credit hours and offers both regular and accelerated pathways for qualified students.
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
- Optimization, Data, and Decision Science Lab
Industry Partners
- Bronson Healthcare Group (corporate)
- Stryker Corporation (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Ilgin Acar — Optimization, data science and decision-making
- Dr. Tycho Fredericks — Engineering management and human performance
Location Advantages: Access to 75+ teaching and research labs throughout the collegeLocated in Kalamazoo, Michigan
Central Michigan University — Mount Pleasant, MI
Key Distinction: CMU's Data Science program uniquely combines undergraduate major requirements with mandatory analytics minors in application disciplines, while offering SAS Institute partnership certifications and full PhD funding for up to six years with both teaching and professional internship tracks.
Hakia Insight: CMU's mandatory analytics minors in application disciplines (not elective depth) force students to pair data science skills with domain expertise in finance, health, or operations from the start—differentiating them from generalist data science graduates when competing for specialized roles.
At the bachelor's level, central Michigan University's Data Science program offers a comprehensive, multi-level educational pathway spanning undergraduate through doctoral degrees. The undergraduate Data Science major (55 credit hours) combines strong foundational knowledge in mathematics, statistics, and computer science with practical applications and teamwork skills. Students must complete an analytics minor in an application discipline, totaling 65-67 credit hours. The program emphasizes data management, computing, analytics modeling techniques, and communication skills. At the graduate level, the MS in Applied Statistics and Analytics (30-33 credit hours) provides advanced training in predictive modeling, machine learning, and big data analytics, with partnership opportunities through SAS Institute for professional certifications. The PhD in Statistics and Analytics (75 credit hours) prepares students for research and academic careers with customizable internship options and full funding opportunities through assistantships.
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
- Statistical Consulting Center
Industry Partners
- SAS Institute (corporate)
- InDIGO Health Partners (corporate)
- Auto Owners Insurance (corporate)
- Hagerty Insurance (corporate)
- Delta Dental of Michigan (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Jungsywan Sepanski — Statistics
- Chin-I Cheng — Statistics, Actuarial & Data Sciences
- Kahadawala Cooray — Actuarial Science
- Mohamed Amezziane — Statistics
Admissions
Acceptance Rate: not specified%. GPA Requirement: 2.7 average for MTH 132, CPS 180, and Introductory Statistics course for Data Science major declaration. Application Deadline: Rolling admission for undergraduate, February 15 priority for graduate financial support.
Requirements: MTH 132, CPS 180, STA 382 or equivalent Introductory Statistics course
Accreditations and Certifications
- SAS Base Programming Certification
- SAS Predictive Modeler Professional Certification
Location Advantages:
Grand Valley State University — Allendale, MI
Key Distinction: This applied program is specifically designed for working professionals with flexible evening classes and emphasizes experiential learning through mandatory internships and collaborative projects. As one of five synergistic PSM programs at GVSU, it integrates university coursework with business/industrial internships.
Hakia Insight: GVSU's mandatory internship requirement embedded in its PSM structure, combined with evening scheduling designed for working professionals, creates a cohort model where students are simultaneously networking, working, and learning—accelerating relationship-building that typically happens after graduation elsewhere.
At the bachelor's level, grand Valley State University's Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics is a 36-credit professional science master's (PSM) program designed for working professionals. The program combines technical training with business and communication skills development, featuring coursework from both information systems and statistics. Students complete four CIS courses including knowledge discovery and data mining, data engineering, and information visualization, plus four statistics courses covering statistical computing with R, multivariate data analysis, and statistical modeling. The program emphasizes experiential learning through field experiences, collaborative assignments, internships, and flexible evening classes. Led by faculty with advanced degrees in data science, the program covers data mining, machine learning, high-performance computing, ethics, and practical applications across health, social, political, environmental, science, and technological fields. The curriculum prepares students for real-world data challenges with hands-on experience using state-of-the-art programming techniques and tools.
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
- Data Inquiry Lab
- Statistical Consulting Center
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $98,822.
Notable Faculty
- Robert Adams — Data Science
- Edward Aboufadel — Applied Mathematics and Data-intensive projects
- Laura Kapitula — Statistical computing and biostatistics
- Joerg Picard — Finance and high-frequency market data
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0. Application Deadline: Rolling basis - July 1 for fall (domestic), May 1 for fall (international).
Requirements: CIS 500 or equivalent, STA 610 or equivalent, Computer programming experience (preferably Python), Probability and statistics background
Location Advantages: Grand Rapids locationDedicated computer labsState-of-the-art equipmentExtensive internship opportunities
Northern Michigan University — Marquette, MI
Key Distinction: Northern Michigan uniquely positions data science within environmental and geospatial applications, with capstone partnerships in natural resource management and climate analytics.
Hakia Insight: Northern Michigan's positioning of data science within environmental and geospatial applications—including Michigan DNR partnerships—appeals to students seeking climate analytics or natural resource careers, a niche most data science programs ignore despite growing employer demand in this sector.
At the bachelor's level, northern Michigan University's approach to data science education emphasizes computational thinking and environmental applications, reflecting the university's Upper Peninsula location and natural resource focus. The program integrates geospatial analysis, climate modeling, and big data tools into its core curriculum, making it distinctive for students interested in environmental data science, forestry analytics, or natural resource management. Students learn Python, R, SQL, and cloud computing platforms through problem sets rooted in real environmental challenges—analyzing sensor networks, processing satellite imagery, managing large ecological datasets. The faculty combination includes computer scientists with data systems expertise and domain specialists in environmental science, creating an interdisciplinary teaching environment. Capstone projects frequently involve collaboration with state and federal agencies managing Michigan's forests and water resources. While the program is smaller than peers in urban centers, it attracts students specifically seeking deep technical training without the competition and cost of major metropolitan programs. Graduates find roles in both traditional data science positions and specialized environmental analytics roles with government agencies, conservation nonprofits, and resource management companies.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Data Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Data Science — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Michigan Department of Natural Resources (government)
Location Advantages: Upper Peninsula location with access to natural resource and environmental sector employersPartnerships with state and federal natural resource agencies
University of Michigan-Flint — Flint, MI
Key Distinction: UM-Flint's Data Science program uniquely combines flexible online and on-campus delivery with four specialized concentration tracks, while being specially designed to welcome students of all educational backgrounds through beginner-friendly foundational courses.
Hakia Insight: UM-Flint's four specialized concentration tracks within a single bachelor's degree let students pivot between bioinformatics, cybersecurity, or traditional analytics without reapplying—a modular flexibility typically reserved for universities with 10x the student population.
At the bachelor's level, the University of Michigan-Flint's Data Science program offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Science degree that positions students at the forefront of this rapidly evolving field. Part of the College of Innovation & Technology, the program provides both online and on-campus formats with the same high-quality education. Students receive intensive training in programming, predictive modeling, and analytical skills through hands-on, project-based experiences and internships. The program is designed to accommodate students from all educational backgrounds, offering beginner-friendly computer science foundation courses. Four specialized concentration tracks are available: Computational, Machine Learning, Mathematical, and Theoretical, allowing students to tailor their degree to advance specific skill sets. The program emphasizes learning by doing, with faculty expertise spanning artificial intelligence, machine learning, data mining, big data analytics, and bioinformatics.
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
- Center for Cybersecurity Research
Notable Faculty
- Halil Bisgin — Bioinformatics, Data Science & Analytics, Big Data
- Murali Mani — Computing Education, Algorithms, Data Science & Analytics, Data Visualization
- Yasser Aboelkassem — Computational Medicine, Machine Learning
- Amal Alhosban — Information Systems, Data Mining, Cloud Computing
Location Advantages: Access to University of Michigan community resources across Flint, Dearborn, and Ann Arbor campusesHub for leading-edge research and professional development within College of Innovation & Technology
Best Master's Data Science Degree Programs in Michigan
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, MI
Key Distinction: The program uniquely combines information science with data analytics through interdisciplinary faculty appointments across engineering, social research, medicine, and public policy schools.
Hakia Insight: Michigan's interdisciplinary ownership model (shared across CS, Statistics, Information, and Biostatistics) means your thesis advisor could be a social computing researcher studying online behavior or a biostatistician working on clinical trials, creating unusual cross-domain research opportunities most peer programs compartmentalize.
The Master's in Data Science at University of Michigan is a collaborative interdisciplinary program jointly owned by Computer Science & Engineering, Statistics, School of Information, and Biostatistics. Students receive balanced training in statistical and computational skills, preparing them to identify datasets, apply appropriate analytical tools, design evaluation procedures, and implement solutions across large heterogeneous datasets in multi-computer environments. The program is designed for working professionals seeking advanced expertise in data representation and analysis. Visit the program's detailed admissions page for specific information on part-time/evening options, thesis vs coursework tracks, graduate assistantship opportunities, embedded certifications, and career advancement outcomes.
Programs Offered
- Master's in Data Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Eytan Adar — Data science and visualization
- Dr. Eric Gilbert — Social computing and data analysis
- Dr. Qiaozhu Mei — Data mining and machine learning
- Dr. Mark Newman — Network analysis and complex systems
- Dr. Christopher Brooks — Learning analytics and educational data science
- Dr. Ceren Budak — Social media analytics and computational social science
- Dr. Dallas Card — Natural language processing and machine learning
- Dr. VG Vinod Vydiswaran — Health informatics and medical data science
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.4 for honors admission. Application Deadline: Fall: July 15, Winter: November 15, Spring/Summer: March 15.
Requirements: Balanced training in statistical skills and computational skills, Advanced understanding of data representation and analysis, Ability to identify relevant datasets and apply statistical and computational tools, Design and evaluate analytical procedures appropriate to data, Implement solutions efficiently over large heterogeneous datasets in multi-computer environments
Location Advantages:
Michigan Technological University — Houghton, MI
Key Distinction: Accelerated 5-year BS-MS pathway — complete master's in only one additional year. Coursework-only degree track (no thesis option)
Hakia Insight: Michigan Tech's five-year BS-MS pathway compresses the master's into just one additional year while maintaining access to Argonne National Laboratory infrastructure—a rare combination that delivers both acceleration and national-lab-scale computing resources typically available only to PhD students.
Michigan Tech's Accelerated Master's in Data Science (BS-MS/BA-MS) is a five-year, full-time pathway for strong undergraduate students to earn both bachelor's and master's degrees. The program is coursework-only, requiring 30 credits of approved courses with up to 6 credits double-counted toward both degrees. Students gain comprehensive education in data mining, predictive analytics, visualization, and business acumen. The accelerated format allows completion in just one additional year beyond the bachelor's degree, enhancing career advancement prospects in analytically-based roles. No GRE required. Eligible undergraduates from Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, Bioinformatics, and related computational/statistics majors with a 3.0+ GPA can apply during junior or senior year.
Programs Offered
- Accelerated Master's in Data Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Institute of Computing and Cybersystems
Industry Partners
- Argonne National Laboratory (government)
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (Computer Science)
Location Advantages: Strong ties to automotive industry (Ford, General Motors nearby)Access to advanced computing infrastructureNational lab partnerships (Argonne)
Grand Valley State University — Allendale, MI
Key Distinction: This applied program is specifically designed for working professionals with flexible evening classes and emphasizes experiential learning through mandatory internships and collaborative projects. As one of five synergistic PSM programs at GVSU, it integrates university coursework with business/industrial internships.
Hakia Insight: Grand Valley's $98,822 median salary for a 36-credit PSM is notable not for the number itself, but because it's earned by professionals who completed evening classes while working—a data point that proves you don't need a two-year full-time commitment to reach mid-career earnings in this region.
Grand Valley State University's Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics is a 36-credit professional science master's (PSM) program designed for working professionals. The program combines technical training with business and communication skills development, featuring coursework from both information systems and statistics. Students complete four CIS courses including knowledge discovery and data mining, data engineering, and information visualization, plus four statistics courses covering statistical computing with R, multivariate data analysis, and statistical modeling. The program emphasizes experiential learning through field experiences, collaborative assignments, internships, and flexible evening classes. Led by faculty with advanced degrees in data science, the program covers data mining, machine learning, high-performance computing, ethics, and practical applications across health, social, political, environmental, science, and technological fields. The curriculum prepares students for real-world data challenges with hands-on experience using state-of-the-art programming techniques and tools.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Data Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Data Science — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Data Inquiry Lab
- Statistical Consulting Center
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $98,822.
Notable Faculty
- Robert Adams — Data Science
- Edward Aboufadel — Applied Mathematics and Data-intensive projects
- Laura Kapitula — Statistical computing and biostatistics
- Joerg Picard — Finance and high-frequency market data
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0. Application Deadline: Rolling basis - July 1 for fall (domestic), May 1 for fall (international).
Requirements: CIS 500 or equivalent, STA 610 or equivalent, Computer programming experience (preferably Python), Probability and statistics background
Location Advantages: Grand Rapids locationDedicated computer labsState-of-the-art equipmentExtensive internship opportunities
Central Michigan University — Mount Pleasant, MI
Key Distinction: CMU's Data Science program uniquely combines undergraduate major requirements with mandatory analytics minors in application disciplines, while offering SAS Institute partnership certifications and full PhD funding for up to six years with both teaching and professional internship tracks.
Hakia Insight: CMU's mandatory analytics minor requirement (paired with the major) forces domain specialization by design—meaning graduates enter the job market as 'data scientist in healthcare' or 'data scientist in finance' rather than generalists, a differentiator that shows up in employer recruiting patterns.
At the master's level, central Michigan University's Data Science program offers a comprehensive, multi-level educational pathway spanning undergraduate through doctoral degrees. The undergraduate Data Science major (55 credit hours) combines strong foundational knowledge in mathematics, statistics, and computer science with practical applications and teamwork skills. Students must complete an analytics minor in an application discipline, totaling 65-67 credit hours. The program emphasizes data management, computing, analytics modeling techniques, and communication skills. At the graduate level, the MS in Applied Statistics and Analytics (30-33 credit hours) provides advanced training in predictive modeling, machine learning, and big data analytics, with partnership opportunities through SAS Institute for professional certifications. The PhD in Statistics and Analytics (75 credit hours) prepares students for research and academic careers with customizable internship options and full funding opportunities through assistantships.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Data Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Data Science — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Statistical Consulting Center
Industry Partners
- SAS Institute (corporate)
- InDIGO Health Partners (corporate)
- Auto Owners Insurance (corporate)
- Hagerty Insurance (corporate)
- Delta Dental of Michigan (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Jungsywan Sepanski — Statistics
- Chin-I Cheng — Statistics, Actuarial & Data Sciences
- Kahadawala Cooray — Actuarial Science
- Mohamed Amezziane — Statistics
Admissions
Acceptance Rate: not specified%. GPA Requirement: 2.7 average for MTH 132, CPS 180, and Introductory Statistics course for Data Science major declaration. Application Deadline: Rolling admission for undergraduate, February 15 priority for graduate financial support.
Requirements: MTH 132, CPS 180, STA 382 or equivalent Introductory Statistics course
Accreditations and Certifications
- SAS Base Programming Certification
- SAS Predictive Modeler Professional Certification
Location Advantages:
Michigan State University — East Lansing, MI
Key Distinction: Fully online, anytime/anywhere delivery with self-paced completion. Embedded graduate certificates earned automatically as you progress
Hakia Insight: MSU's self-paced, fully online structure automatically awards embedded graduate certificates as you progress, letting you market intermediate credentials to employers mid-program—a credential-stacking approach that converts a 2-year degree into 3-4 distinct, job-ready qualifications.
Michigan State University's M.S. in Business Data Science & Analytics is a fully online, self-paced STEM-certified program designed for working professionals seeking career advancement in data science and analytics. The 30-credit program combines business strategy, data management, and experiential project consulting, with embedded graduate certificates earned as you progress. Students develop expertise in machine learning, AI governance, network analytics, and business optimization through live datasets and hands-on analytics projects. The program emphasizes real-world application and includes career workshops, seminars, and networking opportunities with corporate partners. Graduates have advanced into roles such as Business Intelligence Developers, Data Scientists, and Analytics Consultants at major employers including General Motors, Meijer, Stryker, and Carhartt. MSU's program ranks 7th among Master's in Business Analytics at U.S. public institutions (QS, 2022).
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Business Data Science & Analytics — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Data Science and Engineering Laboratory
- Data Mining and Knowledge Discovery Lab
- Intelligent Data Analytics Lab
- Human Rights Data Science Lab
- Computer Vision Laboratory
- Biometrics Research Group
- Human Analysis Lab
- Optimization and Trustworthy ML Group
- Genomic Analysis Lab
- Digital Evolution Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Echo Global Logistics (employer)
- Arthrex (employer)
- UWM (United Wholesale Mortgage) (employer)
- Aldi (employer)
- Clark Schaefer Hackett (employer)
- Jackson (employer)
- Oakland County Government (employer)
- Sachse Construction (employer)
- NSF (sponsor)
- DARPA (sponsor)
- ONR (sponsor)
- DOE (sponsor)
- NIH (sponsor)
- AFOSR (sponsor)
- NASA (sponsor)
- NSA (sponsor)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Intel.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Jiliang Tang — Data science and engineering
- Dr. Pang-Ning Tan — Data mining and machine learning algorithms
- Dr. Jiayu Zhou — Machine learning and data analytics
- Dr. Anil Jain — Biometrics and pattern recognition
- Dr. Xiaoming Liu — Computer vision and deep learning
- Prof. Robert Brathwaite — Human rights data science
Location Advantages:
Wayne State University — Detroit, MI
Key Distinction: Four specialization tracks: Advanced Analytics, Statistics, Data Computing, Data-Driven Business. Industry-sponsored practicum projects (6 credits) with real companies leading to full-time placement opportunities
Hakia Insight: Wayne State's industry-sponsored practicum (6 credits of your 30-credit degree) pairs you directly with Ford, DTE, or Urban Science on real problems, shortcutting the typical internship-to-hire pipeline and explaining Intel's presence in the employer base despite the program's local automotive focus.
Wayne State's Master of Science in Data Science and Business Analytics is a flexible, interdisciplinary one-year program (30 credits) offered through the College of Engineering, Mike Ilitch School of Business, and College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. The program features four specialization tracks: Advanced Analytics, Statistics, Data Computing, and Data-Driven Business. Students gain hands-on experience through industry-sponsored practicum projects (6 credits) with real companies, preparing them for immediate career placement. The curriculum covers SQL, Python, R, Spark, machine learning, and NLP. No GRE required for applicants with 3.0+ GPA. Graduates earn median salaries exceeding $129,607 (2025 data). The program supports part-time and full-time enrollment, with graduate assistantships available in teaching and research. The AGRADE pathway allows 4+1 acceleration at lower undergraduate tuition rates. Industry partners include Ford Motor Company, DTE, Duo Security, and Urban Science, providing direct pathway to employment and career advancement in high-demand data science roles.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Data Science and Business Analytics — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Health Services Research Lab
- Institute for AI and Data Science
Industry Partners
- Ford Motor Company (employer)
- DTE (employer)
- Duo Security (employer)
- Urban Science (employer)
- Kyndryl (collaborator)
- Food and Drug Administration (collaborator)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (collaborator)
- Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (collaborator)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Intel.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Melike Yildirim — Health services research, industrial engineering, systems engineering, simulation modeling, optimization, and predictive analytics
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0+ GPA (for GRE waiver). Application Deadline: Fall: Aug. 1, Winter: Dec. 1, Spring/Summer: April 1.
Requirements: 30 credit hours total, Interdisciplinary foundation in business, computer science, and industrial engineering, 6-credit applied analytics practicum with industry sponsor, Specialization track coursework, Personalized electives aligned with career goals
Location Advantages: Proximity to Detroit manufacturing and automotive industryAccess to healthcare systems for research collaboration
Western Michigan University — Kalamazoo, MI
Key Distinction: This interdisciplinary program uniquely combines expertise from both Statistics and Computer Science departments, providing comprehensive training in both statistical methods and big data processing technologies. The program offers an innovative Accelerated Graduate Degree Program allowing current WMU undergraduates to complete their master's degree within 24 months of their bachelor's completion.
Hakia Insight: Western Michigan's 24-month accelerated pathway for current undergrads compounds the benefit of dual Statistics/CS departmental ownership—you graduate with credentials from both departments while your peers in traditional programs are still finishing prerequisites.
At the master's level, western Michigan University's Data Science program is an interdisciplinary Master of Science degree offered jointly by the Department of Statistics (COAS) and the Department of Computer Science (CEAS), housed in the Department of Statistics. This program addresses the high demand for data scientists by developing students' skills to tackle current and future complex data challenges. Students learn to store and access data from various heterogeneous sources, process Big Data architecture, apply analytic techniques and algorithms including statistical and data mining methods to large complex datasets, utilize relevant environments for data processing and visualization, work in collaborative teams, and communicate effectively. The program requires a minimum of 30 credit hours and offers both regular and accelerated pathways for qualified students.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Data Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Data Science — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Optimization, Data, and Decision Science Lab
Industry Partners
- Bronson Healthcare Group (corporate)
- Stryker Corporation (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Ilgin Acar — Optimization, data science and decision-making
- Dr. Tycho Fredericks — Engineering management and human performance
Location Advantages: Access to 75+ teaching and research labs throughout the collegeLocated in Kalamazoo, Michigan
University of Detroit Mercy — Detroit, MI
Key Distinction: Detroit Mercy's data science programs uniquely combine interdisciplinary coursework from multiple colleges with industry-based projects, emphasizing practical application of data analytics skills while maintaining strong ethical foundations in data science decision-making.
Hakia Insight: Detroit Mercy's $91,467 median salary reflects a smaller, less publicized program, but the emphasis on ethical foundations in data science decision-making signals curriculum depth around bias and fairness that many higher-ranked programs treat as electives rather than core.
The University of Detroit Mercy offers comprehensive Data Science education through multiple pathways including a Graduate Certificate in Applied Data Science (15 credits), a Graduate Certificate in Applied Data Analytics (15 credits), and a Master of Science in Applied Data Analytics (30 credits). These programs combine academic instruction with experiential learning, featuring hands-on practice with different data types, machine learning, data mining, cloud computing, and big data techniques. The curriculum is taught by Detroit Mercy experts and emphasizes ethical dimensions of data science while preparing students for high-paying careers as data specialists, analysts, and database specialists. Programs are designed for working professionals and offered 100% online with flexible scheduling, utilizing case studies from multiple industries and the most widely used analytics tools. The certificate programs are stackable, allowing students to apply credits toward the master's degree.
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
Median Salary: $91,467.
Notable Faculty
- Mina Maleki — Computer Science/Software Engineering
- Yu Peng Lin — Economics
Location Advantages: Located in Detroit with access to diverse industriesConnection to automotive and technology sectors in Michigan
Lawrence Technological University — Southfield, MI
Key Distinction: Lawrence Tech's engineering-centric data science program prioritizes industrial applications and capstone projects with real manufacturing and automotive clients over pure computer science abstraction.
At the master's level, lawrence Tech's data science curriculum emphasizes applied machine learning and statistical computing through a rigorous engineering-focused lens. Students work with real datasets from manufacturing, automotive, and industrial clients—sectors deeply embedded in the Michigan economy. The program integrates hands-on capstone projects where teams deploy predictive models for industry sponsors, creating a direct pipeline between coursework and workforce-ready expertise. Faculty bring strong backgrounds in computational mathematics, systems modeling, and data-driven optimization, reflecting the school's engineering heritage. Graduates emerge with portfolio pieces that demonstrate not just theoretical knowledge but proven ability to solve messier, real-world problems where data is incomplete and stakes are high. The location in Southfield puts students within striking distance of Detroit's automotive data initiatives, insurance companies, and manufacturing firms increasingly hungry for data talent.
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 Detroit automotive and manufacturing data initiativesAccess to industrial and insurance sector employers in Southeast Michigan
Eastern Michigan University — Ypsilanti, MI
Key Distinction: Practitioner-focused data science program with flexible scheduling and applied curriculum designed for working professionals and career-switchers entering Midwest business analytics roles.
At the master's level, eastern Michigan's data science program targets working professionals and career-changers through flexible delivery and applied curriculum design. The program prioritizes accessibility and real-world relevance, with courses structured around industry-standard tools and techniques in SQL, Python, and cloud platforms. Students engage with capstone projects anchored in local business problems, creating direct pathways to employment in the Detroit metro area's growing analytics sector. The program is particularly strong for students balancing full-time work with education, offering evening and hybrid formats that don't compromise on rigor. Faculty bring industry experience alongside academic credentials, emphasizing the translation of data science theory into immediate business value. Outcomes lean toward business analytics, financial services, healthcare analytics, and retail—sectors dominant in Michigan's regional economy—where EMU graduates build strong professional networks.
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: Detroit metro proximity—major finance, insurance, and healthcare hubStrong regional employer base for internships and employmentAccess to Michigan's automotive and manufacturing analytics demand
Best Doctoral Data Science Degree Programs in Michigan
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, MI
Key Distinction: The program uniquely combines information science with data analytics through interdisciplinary faculty appointments across engineering, social research, medicine, and public policy schools.
Hakia Insight: Michigan's doctoral program operates across medicine, public policy, and engineering schools simultaneously, giving students access to faculty doing data science on health disparities and policy design—research domains that pure computer science PhDs never encounter.
At the doctoral level, university of Michigan-Ann Arbor offers a strong Data Science program, maintaining high academic standards with a selective 18% acceptance rate. Located in Michigan, students benefit from a supportive learning environment and growing tech opportunities in the region.
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
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Eytan Adar — Data science and visualization
- Dr. Eric Gilbert — Social computing and data analysis
- Dr. Qiaozhu Mei — Data mining and machine learning
- Dr. Mark Newman — Network analysis and complex systems
- Dr. Christopher Brooks — Learning analytics and educational data science
- Dr. Ceren Budak — Social media analytics and computational social science
- Dr. Dallas Card — Natural language processing and machine learning
- Dr. VG Vinod Vydiswaran — Health informatics and medical data science
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.4 for honors admission. Application Deadline: Fall: July 15, Winter: November 15, Spring/Summer: March 15.
Location Advantages:
Michigan State University — East Lansing, MI
Key Distinction: MSU's data science program uniquely combines traditional computational approaches with innovative applications in human rights investigations and global security, while maintaining strong industry partnerships and interdisciplinary research spanning 20 specialized laboratories.
Hakia Insight: MSU's research labs include a human rights investigations focus—an application area absent from most peer doctoral programs—positioning graduates for roles in algorithmic accountability and global security that command different (and often higher) compensation than traditional tech roles.
At the doctoral level, the Bachelor of Science degree in Data Science is designed to provide students with a strong background in data science using a broad range of computational techniques, practice in statistical thinking, as well as in-depth exposure to topics in data science.
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 Science and Engineering Laboratory
- Data Mining and Knowledge Discovery Lab
- Intelligent Data Analytics Lab
- Human Rights Data Science Lab
- Computer Vision Laboratory
- Biometrics Research Group
- Human Analysis Lab
- Optimization and Trustworthy ML Group
- Genomic Analysis Lab
- Digital Evolution Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Echo Global Logistics (employer)
- Arthrex (employer)
- UWM (United Wholesale Mortgage) (employer)
- Aldi (employer)
- Clark Schaefer Hackett (employer)
- Jackson (employer)
- Oakland County Government (employer)
- Sachse Construction (employer)
- NSF (sponsor)
- DARPA (sponsor)
- ONR (sponsor)
- DOE (sponsor)
- NIH (sponsor)
- AFOSR (sponsor)
- NASA (sponsor)
- NSA (sponsor)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Echo Global Logistics, Arthrex, UWM (United Wholesale Mortgage), Aldi, Clark Schaefer Hackett, Jackson, Oakland County Government, Sachse Construction.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Jiliang Tang — Data science and engineering
- Dr. Pang-Ning Tan — Data mining and machine learning algorithms
- Dr. Jiayu Zhou — Machine learning and data analytics
- Dr. Anil Jain — Biometrics and pattern recognition
- Dr. Xiaoming Liu — Computer vision and deep learning
- Prof. Robert Brathwaite — Human rights data science
Location Advantages:
Michigan Technological University — Houghton, MI
Key Distinction: Engineering-rooted data science program with deep computational and mathematical rigor, emphasizing scientific computing and domain applications in materials, energy, and autonomous systems.
Hakia Insight: Michigan Tech's engineering rigor and Argonne partnership means doctoral students work on computational problems (materials science, autonomous systems, energy) that rarely appear in CS-centric data science PhD programs, creating a distinct researcher profile valued differently by industry and national labs.
At the doctoral level, michigan Tech's data science program is anchored in its strong engineering and STEM foundation, making it an excellent choice for students seeking rigorous mathematical depth alongside machine learning and statistical modeling. The curriculum integrates coursework in advanced mathematics, computational methods, and domain applications across engineering, environmental science, and materials informatics. The program distinguishes itself through hands-on research opportunities in Michigan Tech's computing labs and partnerships with national labs like Argonne, where students work on high-impact problems in scientific computing and big data analysis. Faculty expertise spans machine learning, optimization, and data-driven engineering design. Graduates are competitive for roles in tech, automotive (Michigan's dominant industry), energy, and scientific computing sectors. The Houghton location, while remote, fosters a collaborative campus culture and attracts employers seeking talent in autonomous systems, computational engineering, and advanced analytics.
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
- Institute of Computing and Cybersystems
Industry Partners
- Argonne National Laboratory (government)
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (Computer Science)
Location Advantages: Strong ties to automotive industry (Ford, General Motors nearby)Access to advanced computing infrastructureNational lab partnerships (Argonne)
Western Michigan University — Kalamazoo, MI
Key Distinction: This interdisciplinary program uniquely combines expertise from both Statistics and Computer Science departments, providing comprehensive training in both statistical methods and big data processing technologies. The program offers an innovative Accelerated Graduate Degree Program allowing current WMU undergraduates to complete their master's degree within 24 months of their bachelor's completion.
Hakia Insight: WMU's doctoral program inherits the 24-month accelerated pathway innovation, meaning PhD students can compress their master's phase and enter research specialization earlier—an unusual structural advantage that shortens typical 5-6 year doctorates.
At the doctoral level, western Michigan University's Data Science program is an interdisciplinary Master of Science degree offered jointly by the Department of Statistics (COAS) and the Department of Computer Science (CEAS), housed in the Department of Statistics. This program addresses the high demand for data scientists by developing students' skills to tackle current and future complex data challenges. Students learn to store and access data from various heterogeneous sources, process Big Data architecture, apply analytic techniques and algorithms including statistical and data mining methods to large complex datasets, utilize relevant environments for data processing and visualization, work in collaborative teams, and communicate effectively. The program requires a minimum of 30 credit hours and offers both regular and accelerated pathways for qualified students.
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
- Optimization, Data, and Decision Science Lab
Industry Partners
- Bronson Healthcare Group (corporate)
- Stryker Corporation (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Ilgin Acar — Optimization, data science and decision-making
- Dr. Tycho Fredericks — Engineering management and human performance
Location Advantages: Access to 75+ teaching and research labs throughout the collegeLocated in Kalamazoo, Michigan
Central Michigan University — Mount Pleasant, MI
Key Distinction: CMU's Data Science program uniquely combines undergraduate major requirements with mandatory analytics minors in application disciplines, while offering SAS Institute partnership certifications and full PhD funding for up to six years with both teaching and professional internship tracks.
Hakia Insight: CMU's dual PhD/DScD structure with guaranteed six-year funding and built-in professional internship tracks (alongside teaching assistantships) is rare among doctoral programs—most force students to choose between academia and industry, but CMU explicitly trains both.
Central Michigan University's Data Science program offers a comprehensive, multi-level educational pathway spanning undergraduate through doctoral degrees. The undergraduate Data Science major (55 credit hours) combines strong foundational knowledge in mathematics, statistics, and computer science with practical applications and teamwork skills. Students must complete an analytics minor in an application discipline, totaling 65-67 credit hours. The program emphasizes data management, computing, analytics modeling techniques, and communication skills. At the graduate level, the MS in Applied Statistics and Analytics (30-33 credit hours) provides advanced training in predictive modeling, machine learning, and big data analytics, with partnership opportunities through SAS Institute for professional certifications. The PhD in Statistics and Analytics (75 credit hours) prepares students for research and academic careers with customizable internship options and full funding opportunities through assistantships.
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
- Statistical Consulting Center
Industry Partners
- SAS Institute (corporate)
- InDIGO Health Partners (corporate)
- Auto Owners Insurance (corporate)
- Hagerty Insurance (corporate)
- Delta Dental of Michigan (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Jungsywan Sepanski — Statistics
- Chin-I Cheng — Statistics, Actuarial & Data Sciences
- Kahadawala Cooray — Actuarial Science
- Mohamed Amezziane — Statistics
Admissions
Acceptance Rate: not specified%. GPA Requirement: 2.7 average for MTH 132, CPS 180, and Introductory Statistics course for Data Science major declaration. Application Deadline: Rolling admission for undergraduate, February 15 priority for graduate financial support.
Requirements: MTH 132, CPS 180, STA 382 or equivalent Introductory Statistics course
Accreditations and Certifications
- SAS Base Programming Certification
- SAS Predictive Modeler Professional Certification
Location Advantages:
