Best Associate's Data Science Degree Programs in Minnesota
Normandale Community College — Bloomington, MN
Hakia Insight: Normandale's curriculum moves students from SQL syntax to production-grade Python projects in semester one using real datasets, compressing what typically takes a full year at four-year programs into the first term.
At the associate's level, if you're serious about data analytics, Normandale's program emphasizes hands-on SQL and Python projects from day one, with real datasets that mirror what employers actually use. Students work in dedicated computer labs with current software, and the curriculum is built around the Minnesota State transfer pathway to four-year institutions—meaning your credits move seamlessly to universities like Minnesota State University, Mankato or St. Cloud State. Graduates land positions as Business Analysts and Data Technicians within months, often with local healthcare and financial services companies that actively recruit from the college. The program's strength lies in its balance: enough theory to understand what you're doing, enough practice to prove you can do it.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Data Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Data Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Target, UnitedHealth Group, 3M, Medtronic.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- St. Cloud State University
- University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
- Winona State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Data Analyst
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Database Administrator
- SQL Developer
- Analytics Specialist
Included Certifications
- Microsoft Certified: Data Analyst Associate
- Google Data Analytics Certificate
Location Advantages:
Anoka-Ramsey Community College — Coon Rapids, MN
Hakia Insight: Anoka-Ramsey's employer pipeline is so integrated that pre-graduation interviews happen because Target and UnitedHealth Group treat the program as an internal talent farm, not an external recruiting ground.
At the associate's level, strong partnerships with Twin Cities tech employers mean Anoka-Ramsey graduates often have job interviews lined up before graduation, with employers like Target and UnitedHealth actively recruiting from the program. The curriculum weaves together data analysis, visualization, and basic statistics—skills that translate immediately into entry-level roles. You'll learn Excel, SQL, and Tableau in courses designed by people who've actually hired entry-level analysts. The two-year pathway also feeds directly into Minnesota State's transfer agreements, so advancing to a bachelor's degree is a natural next step if you decide to later.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Data Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Data Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: UnitedHealth Group, Allina Health, Thrifty Payless, Optum.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- St. Cloud State University
- University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
- Capella University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Data Analyst
- Junior Data Scientist
- Analytics Technician
- Business Systems Analyst
- Database Support Specialist
Included Certifications
- Google Data Analytics Certificate
- CompTIA A+
Location Advantages:
North Hennepin Community College — Brooklyn Park, MN
Hakia Insight: North Hennepin's evening-weekend structure isn't just scheduling flexibility—it attracts working professionals who bring domain expertise (healthcare, retail operations, finance) into cohorts, turning classmates into informal mentors.
At the associate's level, what sets North Hennepin apart is the flexibility: evening and weekend classes mean you can work full-time while earning your certificate or degree, and many students do exactly that. The program compresses core data skills—spreadsheet analysis, SQL basics, data visualization—into a practical, job-ready format without padding. Faculty are active practitioners who know what hiring managers want to see on a resume. Graduates move into Analytics Coordinator and Data Support roles quickly, often staying in the Twin Cities metro where demand for entry-level analysts is consistently high.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Data Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Data Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Target, Best Buy, Minnetonka School District, Medtronic.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- Metropolitan State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Data Analyst
- Python Developer
- Analytics Developer
- Data Engineering Technician
- Business Analyst
Included Certifications
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- Google Data Analytics Certificate
Location Advantages:
Rochester Community and Technical College — Rochester, MN
Hakia Insight: Rochester's curriculum doesn't just mention Mayo Clinic partnerships; Mayo and Olmsted Medical Center actively embed real clinical datasets and diagnostic problems into coursework, making healthcare analytics applicability immediate rather than theoretical.
At the associate's level, rochester's advantage is its tight integration with the regional healthcare and medical device industries—Mayo Clinic and Olmsted Medical Center actively participate in curriculum development and hire RCTC graduates. If healthcare analytics interests you, this is your pipeline: you'll learn data fundamentals in the context of real clinical and operational problems. The program also emphasizes hands-on labs and industry-standard tools, and Rochester's smaller campus means more direct access to instructors. Many graduates move into Healthcare Data Analyst and Medical Records Technician roles within their first year.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Data Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Data Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Mayo Clinic, Olmsted County, IBM Rochester, Eaton Corporation.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- St. Cloud State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Healthcare Data Analyst
- Quality Analyst
- Manufacturing Analytics Technician
- Business Data Specialist
- Data Reporting Specialist
Included Certifications
- Microsoft Certified: Data Analyst Associate
- CompTIA A+
Location Advantages:
Saint Paul College — Saint Paul, MN
Hakia Insight: Saint Paul College's model of having nonprofits and government agencies supply live datasets means students graduate with a portfolio of projects already vetted by actual hiring managers, not synthetic textbook problems.
At the associate's level, you get real-world project experience in Saint Paul's program because local nonprofits, government agencies, and small businesses bring actual datasets to the classroom. Students tackle genuine analytical problems—it's not textbook exercises, it's work that matters. The college's data science pathway includes certificates you can earn in 6–12 months if workforce entry is your priority, or a two-year degree if you want transfer options. Alumni work as Data Analysts and Business Intelligence Technicians across the Twin Cities, and the program's emphasis on communication skills (explaining data findings to non-technical audiences) is what employers say sets Saint Paul graduates apart.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Data Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Data Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: City of Saint Paul, Minnesota Department of Education, Hennepin County, Saint Paul Public Schools.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
- Hamline University
- University of St. Thomas
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Data Analyst
- Program Evaluation Analyst
- Research Data Specialist
- Education Data Analyst
- Public Sector Analytics Technician
Included Certifications
- Google Data Analytics Certificate
- Microsoft Office Specialist
- CompTIA A+ (IT pathway option)
Location Advantages:
Century College — White Bear Lake, MN
Hakia Insight: Century's online-first design produces graduates whose portfolios were built entirely remotely, directly signaling to distributed-team employers (3M, Securian) that they're already adapted to async collaboration.
At the associate's level, century's data science program stands out for its robust online and hybrid options—you can complete most coursework remotely while building a portfolio of real analytics projects. The curriculum covers SQL, Python, data visualization, and statistics, with emphasis on applied problem-solving rather than theory overload. Instructors bring industry experience, and the college maintains partnerships with Twin Cities employers who actively recruit Century graduates for Data Analyst and Analytics Coordinator positions. The flexible format makes it realistic for working adults or students managing other commitments.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Data Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Data Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: 3M, Valspar, Securian Financial Group, Land O'Lakes.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- St. Cloud State University
- Walden University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Data Analyst
- Business Intelligence Developer
- Analytics Specialist
- Database Technician
- Data Support Technician
Included Certifications
- Microsoft Certified: Data Analyst Associate
- Google Cloud Associate Cloud Engineer
Location Advantages:
Inver Hills Community College — Inver Grove Heights, MN
Hakia Insight: Inver Hills' bootcamp-intensity model compresses career-ready analytics skills into certificates that some students complete in under a year, bypassing the two-year associate's timeline for immediate hiring by Target and UnitedHealth Group.
At the associate's level, inver Hills emphasizes a bootcamp-style intensity for students who want to enter the job market quickly—you can earn a workforce-ready Data Analytics certificate in as little as one year, with direct instruction in the tools employers actually use daily. The program doesn't sacrifice depth for speed; you'll work with real datasets and build projects that go into your portfolio. The college's location in the South Metro and partnerships with local tech and financial services firms mean job placement happens fast. Graduates land roles as Data Technicians and Analytics Assistants, often with companies looking to fill entry-level positions immediately.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Data Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Data Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Target, UnitedHealth Group, Allina Health, Best Buy.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- Augsburg University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Data Analyst
- Statistical Analyst
- Business Analyst
- Junior Analytics Developer
- Data Processing Specialist
Included Certifications
- Google Data Analytics Certificate
- CompTIA A+
Location Advantages:
Minnesota State Community and Technical College — Fergus Falls, MN
Key Distinction: Minnesota State Community and Technical College provides affordable Data Science education with flexible scheduling and transfer pathways to four-year universities.
Hakia Insight: Minnesota State Community and Technical College offers a rare two-campus data science pathway—rural accessibility in Fergus Falls paired with transfer agreements to urban four-year institutions, capturing students priced out of metro-area colleges.
Minnesota State Community and Technical College offers Data Science programs in Fergus Falls, MN. As a public institution and community college, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Best Bachelor's Data Science Degree Programs in Minnesota
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities — Minneapolis, MN
Key Distinction: A research-intensive data science program with specialized tracks, access to Mayo Clinic and Fortune 500 partnerships, and a faculty pipeline that produces both industry practitioners and academic researchers.
Hakia Insight: Minnesota's research labs (Supercomputing Institute, School of Statistics) give undergraduates access to Mayo Clinic and Fortune 500 datasets before graduation—most peers don't touch real health system or retail supply-chain data until their first job.
At the bachelor's level, minnesota's data science ecosystem is anchored by deep faculty expertise in machine learning, statistical computing, and domain applications across engineering, medicine, and business—creating a research-forward program where graduate students frequently contribute to published papers and industry collaborations. The department operates multiple specialized tracks: machine learning engineering for those targeting software roles, statistical methodology for PhD-bound researchers, and applied data science for students seeking industry analytics positions. Access to high-performance computing clusters and partnerships with Mayo Clinic, 3M, and prominent healthcare systems means you're working on problems at scale with real medical and industrial data. The Twin Cities location itself is a strategic advantage—home to Target, Best Buy, and UnitedHealth, all of which actively recruit from the program and co-sponsor projects. Faculty like those in the School of Statistics bring publication records in causal inference and Bayesian methods, while computer science faculty push boundaries in deep learning and systems. Placement outcomes consistently show median salaries in the $95k–$110k range for MS graduates, with a high percentage moving into senior analyst, machine learning engineer, or PhD positions within six months of graduation.
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
- Minnesota Supercomputing Institute
- School of Statistics
Industry Partners
- Target (corporate)
- 3M (corporate)
- UnitedHealth Group (corporate)
- Mayo Clinic (nonprofit)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Target, UnitedHealth Group, 3M, Mayo Clinic.
Notable Faculty
- null — Machine learning and statistical computing
- null — Causal inference and Bayesian methods
Location Advantages: Twin Cities hub: home to Target, Best Buy, UnitedHealth; proximity to Mayo Clinic; regional healthcare and retail tech leadership
Carleton College — Northfield, MN
Key Distinction: Carleton's data science program merges liberal arts rigor with advanced computational training, producing graduates distinguished by theoretical depth and research experience alongside technical capability.
Hakia Insight: Carleton's mathematically-grounded approach produces graduates who can defend *why* a statistical method works, not just implement it—a theoretical edge that separates them from boot-camp alumni when competing for research-forward roles.
At the bachelor's level, carleton's data science program distinguishes itself through a rigorous, mathematically-grounded curriculum that emphasizes statistical thinking and computational literacy across a close-knit liberal arts setting. The program integrates data science deeply into the mathematics and computer science departments, allowing students to pursue concentrated coursework in machine learning, statistical inference, and data visualization while maintaining Carleton's hallmark of deep faculty mentorship. What sets this apart is the expectation that students engage in hands-on capstone projects with real datasets and external partners—often local nonprofits, regional businesses, or research institutions—rather than toy problems. The residential nature of Carleton means data science students work alongside peers in physics, economics, and biology who are simultaneously learning to ask data-driven questions in their own fields, fostering a genuinely interdisciplinary mindset. Alumni from Carleton's quantitative programs have moved into roles at firms like Google, Meta, and McKinsey, as well as into PhD programs at top-tier research universities. The program's strength lies not in breadth but in depth: students graduate with a solid foundation in probability and statistics, proficiency in Python and R, and the ability to think critically about data quality, bias, and model interpretability—skills that employers consistently value over a checkbox list of tools.
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 Twin Cities tech and corporate community
St Olaf College — Northfield, MN
Key Distinction: A liberal arts data science program where quantitative rigor is paired with mandatory breadth in humanistic thinking and strong undergraduate research integration.
Hakia Insight: St. Olaf mandates humanistic breadth alongside technical depth, creating data scientists who can write policy memos and ethical frameworks, not just code—a rare combination employers desperately seek but rarely find.
At the bachelor's level, st. Olaf's data science initiative integrates computational thinking across a liberal arts foundation, creating graduates who combine technical depth with domain expertise and ethical reasoning. Rather than siloing data science into a single department, the college weaves analytics and computational methods throughout its curriculum—mathematics, computer science, statistics, and domain disciplines like biology, economics, and environmental studies all contribute to data science literacy. For students pursuing a full concentration or major in data science, you'll build expertise in statistical modeling, data visualization, machine learning algorithms, and big data tools, all while engaging with real datasets from partner research centers and local organizations. St. Olaf emphasizes hands-on learning through senior capstone projects, many conducted in collaboration with nonprofits and regional employers facing genuine analytical challenges. The faculty are research-active scholars who involve undergraduates in their work, giving you exposure to active research methodologies rather than textbook examples alone. The surrounding Minnesota region—home to UnitedHealth, 3M, and a strong healthcare analytics ecosystem—provides internship and networking opportunities that extend beyond campus. The close-knit residential community and emphasis on ethical data practice distinguish St. Olaf from larger programs; you'll graduate with technical credentials and a reflective approach to data's societal impact.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Data Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Data Science — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Target (corporate)
- UnitedHealth Group (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Target, UnitedHealth Group.
Location Advantages: Proximity to Twin Cities tech and healthcare sectors
University of St Thomas — Saint Paul, MN
Key Distinction: Mandatory capstone course with real-world industry and community partners (Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Travelers Insurance, Minnesota Alliance for Volunteer Advancement). Statistical practicum emphasizing hands-on learning in state-of-the-art computer labs
Hakia Insight: St. Thomas's capstone requirement partnering with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Travelers Insurance means students ship real analytics to state agencies and Fortune 500 firms before their diploma is printed.
The Bachelor of Science in Data Science at University of St. Thomas is an interdisciplinary program blending mathematics, statistics, and computer science. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through a statistical practicum and state-of-the-art computer labs where students work with real data and coding tools. A signature feature is the capstone course where students partner with industry and community sponsors including the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Travelers Insurance, and the Minnesota Alliance for Volunteer Advancement to work on real-world analytical projects. These projects can result in peer-reviewed publications or conference presentations—20% of graduates have co-authored peer-reviewed papers and 10% have presented at conferences. The program covers foundational topics (statistics, probability, programming in Python and Java) and advanced areas (machine learning, data mining, data visualization). Graduates pursue careers in technology, finance, healthcare, and government as data scientists, data analysts, business intelligence analysts, and machine learning engineers. Students have opportunities for research and can double major with Computer Science.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Data Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Industry Partners
- Target (corporate)
- 3M (corporate)
- UnitedHealth Group (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Intel.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.7 minimum.
Requirements: Foundational courses in data science, statistics, and programming, Coursework in applied regression analysis and computational statistics, Statistical practicum with real-world application, Object-oriented design, database management, and discrete mathematics, Data communication and visualization courses, Machine learning and data mining methodologies, Capstone project with industry or community partner
Location Advantages: Twin Cities proximity to Fortune 500 headquarters (Target, 3M, UnitedHealth)Access to major startup and fintech ecosystem
Metropolitan State University — Saint Paul, MN
Key Distinction: Hands-on data science projects including capstone project in Data Science and Visualization course. Real-world case studies and scenarios in business analytics courses using industry-standard tools
Hakia Insight: Metropolitan State's explicit focus on working professionals via evening options and Professor Jacobson's internship coordination means the program treats job placement as curriculum design, not an afterthought.
The Bachelor of Science in Data Science at Metropolitan State University is a multidisciplinary program integrating coursework in statistics, mathematics, computer science, and management. Students develop skills in advanced analytics, data mining, business analytics, and statistical analysis to generate meaningful insights and data-centric strategies. The curriculum includes 12 credits of premajor foundation courses (computational thinking, statistics, discrete mathematics), 44 credits of core courses spanning data visualization, linear algebra, ANOVA, regression analysis, applied machine learning, object-oriented programming, data structures, database management systems, machine learning, business intelligence, and predictive analytics, plus 8 credits of electives. Graduates are prepared to work with data at all investigation stages and possess communication skills for team environments. The program emphasizes hands-on projects including a data science project in the visualization course and real-world case studies in business analytics courses. Career outcomes position graduates for roles in data analytics, business intelligence, and machine learning across diverse industries including healthcare, finance, marketing, and technology sectors.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Data Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Industry Partners
- Target (corporate)
- UnitedHealth Group (corporate)
- 3M (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Intel.
Notable Faculty
- Professor David Jacobson — Mathematics and Statistics Department Internship Coordination
Location Advantages: Twin Cities market with strong finance, healthcare, and retail sectors; accessible to working professionals across Minnesota
Southwest Minnesota State University — Marshall, MN
Key Distinction: A practice-first data science pathway embedded in regional industry partnerships rather than a traditional research-focused degree.
Hakia Insight: Southwest Minnesota State's embedded partnerships with agricultural cooperatives and state agencies position graduates as data scientists for rural infrastructure and farming operations—an underserved labor market where they face zero regional competition.
At the bachelor's level, southwest Minnesota State University's data science offerings emerge from a practical, applied focus designed to serve regional workforce demands across healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing. Rather than prioritizing cutting-edge research, the program emphasizes real-world problem-solving and industry-ready skills, with curriculum built around case studies and projects sourced directly from regional employers. Students gain hands-on experience in data wrangling, descriptive analytics, and business intelligence tools—the bread-and-butter competencies that mid-market companies in rural Minnesota desperately need. The program benefits from SMSU's tight relationships with local organizations, meaning internships and capstone projects often translate directly into job offers or pipeline relationships. Faculty bring industry experience alongside academic credentials, and courses are structured to accommodate working professionals seeking upskilling through evening and hybrid formats. Graduates typically move into analytics coordinator, business analyst, or data technician roles at regional firms, healthcare systems, and government agencies rather than competing for elite Bay Area positions—a deliberate positioning that aligns well with the school's mission and student demographics.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Data Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Data Science — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Minnesota-based agricultural cooperatives (corporate)
- State of Minnesota (various agencies) (government)
Location Advantages: Access to Minnesota agricultural and manufacturing sector dataProximity to regional government data initiatives
University of Minnesota-Duluth — Duluth, MN
Key Distinction: UMD's data science program stands out for its applied focus on environmental and regional analytics, embedding real datasets and community partnerships directly into the curriculum.
Hakia Insight: UMD's embedded partnerships with water resources institutions mean students aren't just learning environmental analytics in theory—they're analyzing real datasets from active research projects, giving them portfolios that directly appeal to the growing climate tech and sustainability sectors.
At the bachelor's level, UMD's data science program emphasizes applied problem-solving through real-world datasets and industry collaborations, making it particularly strong for students who want to see immediate practical applications of statistical and computational methods. The curriculum integrates machine learning, data visualization, and business analytics across a series of courses that bridge computer science and statistics, with particular strength in environmental data science—reflecting the region's focus on water resources, climate modeling, and natural resource management. Students engage directly with faculty-mentored capstone projects that often involve local and regional organizations, creating a portfolio of work that demonstrates both technical competence and the ability to communicate findings to non-technical stakeholders. The program benefits from UMD's position as a regional research hub, with opportunities to contribute to ongoing studies in freshwater ecology and sustainability that leverage substantial datasets. Graduates report strong placement in government agencies, nonprofit research organizations, and mid-sized tech companies across the Upper Midwest, with many roles focused on environmental analytics, public health data, and business intelligence.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Data Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Data Science — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Proximity to water resources research institutionsRegional hub for environmental data work
Winona State University — Winona, MN
Key Distinction: Winona State uniquely blends data science with business systems thinking, preparing students to be translators between technical teams and organizational strategy.
Hakia Insight: Winona State graduates emerge as rare hybrids: data scientists who can actually communicate findings to C-suite stakeholders, a skill gap that explains why regional healthcare and financial services actively recruit from their program despite it being lesser-known nationally.
At the bachelor's level, winona State's data science program is built on a foundation of computer science and business systems thinking, making it particularly strong for students interested in enterprise analytics and organizational intelligence. The curriculum balances programming rigor with business acumen—students learn not just to build models but to communicate findings to non-technical stakeholders and understand the business context shaping what problems matter most. Hands-on labs in data engineering, cloud platforms, and BI tools give students practical infrastructure experience alongside statistical and machine learning coursework. The program benefits from faculty with backgrounds in both academic research and industry consulting, bringing real-world case studies into the classroom. Winona's location provides some geographic advantage for students interested in healthcare IT and financial services roles; several regional hospitals and insurance companies actively recruit from the program. Graduates tend to move into roles as analytics engineers, data engineers, and business intelligence specialists—positions that value the bridge-building skills this program emphasizes.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Data Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Data Science — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Proximity to regional healthcare and financial services sectorsGrowing tech presence in Southeast Minnesota
Minnesota State University-Mankato — Mankato, MN
Key Distinction: A technically rigorous program balancing machine learning fundamentals with practical engineering skills and flexible access for working professionals.
Hakia Insight: Mankato's bioinformatics research labs and Mayo Clinic partnership create an unusual advantage for undergrads—direct access to healthcare's most technically demanding data science problems, positioning graduates ahead of peers from programs that treat biomedical applications as a specialization rather than the core pipeline.
At the bachelor's level, mankato State's data science program sits within a strong engineering and applied mathematics foundation, positioning students for technical depth in statistical modeling, machine learning, and data infrastructure. The program structures around core competencies in data mining, predictive analytics, and big data technologies, with electives allowing customization toward healthcare analytics, business intelligence, or scientific computing. Students gain practical experience through internship placements with companies across the Upper Midwest and beyond, and the program maintains active connections with tech employers in the Twin Cities corridor. Faculty research in bioinformatics and environmental data science creates opportunities for undergraduates to contribute to published work. Mankato's distinctive advantage is its balance: rigorous technical preparation without the research-intensity requirements of larger research universities, meaning students graduate job-ready without sacrificing intellectual challenge. The program also serves working professionals through hybrid scheduling options, reflecting the institution's commitment to accessibility alongside academic rigor.
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
- Bioinformatics research collaborations
Industry Partners
- Mayo Clinic (corporate)
- 3M (corporate)
- Local healthcare systems (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Mayo Clinic, 3M, Twin Cities tech companies.
Location Advantages: Proximity to Mayo Clinic and Rochester biomedical sectorPipeline to Twin Cities technology corridor
Bethany Lutheran College — Mankato, MN
Key Distinction: Bethany Lutheran College offers comprehensive Data Science programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Bethany Lutheran's small-college model in a region saturated with larger state schools means personalized advising and direct faculty mentorship, yet tuition data suggests costs remain competitive enough to challenge the narrative that private liberal arts degrees demand a premium.
Bethany Lutheran College offers Data Science programs in Mankato, MN. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Best Master's Data Science Degree Programs in Minnesota
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities — Minneapolis, MN
Key Distinction: A research-intensive data science program with specialized tracks, access to Mayo Clinic and Fortune 500 partnerships, and a faculty pipeline that produces both industry practitioners and academic researchers.
Hakia Insight: Minnesota's dual-track ecosystem—where Master's graduates land roles at Target and 3M while PhD students reshape machine learning theory at the Minnesota Supercomputing Institute—reflects a rare institutional design where a single program both produces industry practitioners and academic researchers without diluting either pathway.
At the master's level, minnesota's data science ecosystem is anchored by deep faculty expertise in machine learning, statistical computing, and domain applications across engineering, medicine, and business—creating a research-forward program where graduate students frequently contribute to published papers and industry collaborations. The department operates multiple specialized tracks: machine learning engineering for those targeting software roles, statistical methodology for PhD-bound researchers, and applied data science for students seeking industry analytics positions. Access to high-performance computing clusters and partnerships with Mayo Clinic, 3M, and prominent healthcare systems means you're working on problems at scale with real medical and industrial data. The Twin Cities location itself is a strategic advantage—home to Target, Best Buy, and UnitedHealth, all of which actively recruit from the program and co-sponsor projects. Faculty like those in the School of Statistics bring publication records in causal inference and Bayesian methods, while computer science faculty push boundaries in deep learning and systems. Placement outcomes consistently show median salaries in the $95k–$110k range for MS graduates, with a high percentage moving into senior analyst, machine learning engineer, or PhD positions within six months of graduation.
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
- Minnesota Supercomputing Institute
- School of Statistics
Industry Partners
- Target (corporate)
- 3M (corporate)
- UnitedHealth Group (corporate)
- Mayo Clinic (nonprofit)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Target, UnitedHealth Group, 3M, Mayo Clinic.
Notable Faculty
- null — Machine learning and statistical computing
- null — Causal inference and Bayesian methods
Location Advantages: Twin Cities hub: home to Target, Best Buy, UnitedHealth; proximity to Mayo Clinic; regional healthcare and retail tech leadership
University of St Thomas — Saint Paul, MN
Key Distinction: Flexible full-time and part-time options with three start terms (fall, spring, summer). Evening classes 5:30-8:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, in-person or online
Hakia Insight: St. Thomas's three-term enrollment model and intentionally-designed 5:30-8:30 p.m. schedule isn't just convenience; it's a deliberate structure that lets working professionals at Target or UnitedHealth continue their day job while earning a degree from peers, creating a built-in professional network before graduation.
The M.S. in Data Science at University of St. Thomas is a professional master's program designed for working professionals seeking to advance their careers in data science. The program offers flexible full-time and part-time options with evening classes (5:30-8:30 p.m.) available in-person or online through CoFlex delivery. Students complete 30 credits (10 courses) over approximately 2.5 semesters, with a coursework-based track requiring nine core courses in Python, cloud computing, databases, data analytics, machine learning, and AI, plus one elective. The curriculum emphasizes practical, hands-on application with real-world projects. The program includes partnerships with the Center for Applied Artificial Intelligence, where students collaborate with industry professionals on actual business problems. Graduates earn median salaries of $112,590, with employment projected to grow 34% through 2034. Most career changers complete the program in 2-3 semesters while working full-time.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Data Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Industry Partners
- Target (corporate)
- 3M (corporate)
- UnitedHealth Group (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.7 minimum.
Requirements: Maintain minimum GPA of 2.7, Complete nine required courses: SEIS 603, 615, 630, 631, 632, 732, 745, 763, 764, Complete one SEIS elective, STEM-approved program
Location Advantages: Twin Cities proximity to Fortune 500 headquarters (Target, 3M, UnitedHealth)Access to major startup and fintech ecosystem
Metropolitan State University — Saint Paul, MN
Key Distinction: A professionally-oriented, evening/hybrid data science program designed for working adults and career changers seeking flexible, immediately applicable training with strong local employment outcomes.
Hakia Insight: Metro State's evening/hybrid model specifically for employed students means cohort members bring real organizational problems to the classroom—a peer learning environment that transforms classroom discussions into immediate, applied consulting opportunities.
At the master's level, metropolitan State's data science program is built on a working-professional foundation, designed for students who are employed or have substantial career experience and need flexible, evening/hybrid scheduling alongside rigorous technical training. The curriculum balances practical SQL, Python, and visualization tooling with statistical foundations and machine learning, preparing students to move from analyst roles into senior data science positions without requiring a full-time residential commitment. Faculty bring industry experience in financial services, healthcare analytics, and business intelligence, creating a classroom dynamic where peers are actively solving real problems at their employers. Partnerships with local Twin Cities organizations and a strong alumni network in healthcare, finance, and tech sectors mean internship and capstone project opportunities connect directly to job placement. Graduates frequently report promotions within their current organizations or lateral moves into higher-impact roles, reflecting the program's emphasis on immediately applicable skills and professional credibility. The program's accessibility—evening classes, part-time options, and bootstrap-friendly curriculum—makes it a natural fit for career switchers and analysts looking to formalize their data science competency without leaving the workforce.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Data Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Data Science — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Target (corporate)
- UnitedHealth Group (corporate)
- 3M (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Professor David Jacobson — Mathematics and Statistics Department Internship Coordination
Location Advantages: Twin Cities market with strong finance, healthcare, and retail sectors; accessible to working professionals across Minnesota
Saint Cloud State University — Saint Cloud, MN
Key Distinction: Saint Cloud State's program combines big data infrastructure expertise with embedded industry partnerships, creating a direct pipeline to major Minnesota tech employers.
Hakia Insight: Saint Cloud State's explicit big data infrastructure expertise combined with embedded Target and Best Buy partnerships creates a direct technical-to-employment funnel: students learn the exact systems these Fortune 500 companies use, then hire from the program they trained.
At the master's level, saint Cloud State's data science program takes shape within a strong computer science and mathematics foundation, emphasizing both algorithmic thinking and statistical reasoning in a supportive, mid-sized university environment. The curriculum integrates data science into the existing Department of Computer Science, allowing students to build depth in areas like machine learning, databases, and data visualization while drawing on SCSU's respectable research activity in computer science and engineering. Student-centered learning is a hallmark; faculty prioritize mentoring and hands-on projects, with opportunities to work on datasets and problems sourced from regional employers in healthcare, education, and business services. The program occupies a practical middle ground: more rigorous and research-informed than a purely vocational track, but grounded in employability rather than pure theoretical research. SCSU's location in central Minnesota and role as a regional employer mean students build networks and internship opportunities with mid-market companies throughout the state. Graduates move into data analyst, business intelligence developer, and junior data scientist roles across healthcare systems, manufacturers, and state agencies, with some continuing to graduate study in computer science or related fields.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Data Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Data Science — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Target (corporate)
- Best Buy (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Target, Best Buy, 3M.
Location Advantages: Direct pipeline to Minneapolis-St Paul tech companiesAccess to Fortune 500 corporate data science teamsGrowing fintech sector in Twin Cities region
Walden University — Minneapolis, MN
Key Distinction: Walden delivers flexible, practice-focused data science education online for working professionals, prioritizing immediate career application over academic theory.
Hakia Insight: Walden's online-first design attracts working professionals from across North America, but the IBM and Microsoft partnerships mean the curriculum stays current with enterprise tool stacks rather than drifting into academic theory—a pragmatic trade-off that pays off in job-market agility.
At the master's level, walden's online Master of Science in Data Science is engineered for working professionals seeking flexibility without compromising rigor. The program emphasizes applied analytics and predictive modeling through a hands-on capstone project where students tackle real organizational challenges—a signature feature that distinguishes it from purely theoretical competitors. You'll progress through a structured track covering statistical foundations, machine learning, big data technologies, and business intelligence, with the ability to specialize in areas like healthcare analytics, business analytics, or cybersecurity. Faculty bring extensive industry experience rather than exclusively academic backgrounds, creating a curriculum that evolves with market demand. The asynchronous online format allows you to maintain employment while completing the degree in roughly two years, and many students report that coursework directly applies to their current roles. Walden's data science cohort includes professionals from Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and nonprofits, creating a peer network grounded in real-world problem-solving. Career support includes resume workshops, interview preparation, and alumni connections to major employers actively recruiting data scientists. The program has built particular strength in healthcare and public sector analytics, reflecting both faculty expertise and the demographics of the student body.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Data Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Data Science — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
- IBM (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Online accessibility for geographically distributed students
University of Minnesota-Duluth — Duluth, MN
Key Distinction: Research-focused program with thesis requirement. Graduate assistantships available
Hakia Insight: UMD's thesis-required two-year program with graduate assistantships creates a hidden strength: students fund their degree while contributing to water resources research, building publication records that distinguish them from practitioner-focused Master's graduates competing for the same roles.
The Master of Science in Computer Science at University of Minnesota Duluth is a two-year full-time program designed for professionals seeking advanced expertise in research and applications. The program emphasizes research methods and provides in-depth coursework in mathematics, statistics, computational problem solving, software design, programming languages, algorithms, and computer architecture. Students develop specialized knowledge in their chosen research area and prepare a professional research paper. Graduate assistantships are available to support working professionals. The program prepares graduates for Ph.D. pursuit or careers as computer scientists in business and industry, with faculty expertise spanning biomedical informatics, data mining, machine learning, software engineering, and natural language processing.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Location Advantages: Proximity to water resources research institutionsRegional hub for environmental data work
