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Key Takeaways
Best data science degree programs: Mississippi College, Belhaven, Rust College
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $3,100 to $28,800/year
Itawamba Community College offers the most affordable option at $3,100/yr
Data Science degree programs available: 6 associate's, 2 master's, 1 doctoral in Mississippi
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
Mississippi community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
6 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: C Spire, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman
Tech hubs in Jackson and Gulfport
Hakia Research 2026
Data Science degree programs near 43+ cities across Mississippi
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Mississippi Data Science programs
We rank 13 accredited data science programs in Mississippi using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Are Data Science Degree Programs in Mississippi Worth It?
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Data Science Degree Rankings in Mississippi
Compare the top-ranked Data Science programs in Mississippi by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Data Science Programs in Mississippi
Program Landscape
Mississippi offers 6 accredited associate's degree programs in data science, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Itawamba Community College, Northwest Mississippi Com..., Copiah-Lincoln Community ..., which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Mississippi offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $4,535/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $45,348 in Mississippi.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Mississippi's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like C Spire, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among data science schools in Mississippi, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their data science degrees in Mississippi.
Show all 6 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Tougaloo College | Tougaloo, MS | Private | $10,258 | — | 53.4 |
Best Bachelor's Data Science Programs in Mississippi
Program Landscape
Mississippi ranks among the nation's top destinations for data science education, with 4 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 0 public and 4 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Mississippi College, Belhaven, Rust College, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Mississippi data science programs earn a median salary of $70,083, 29% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including C Spire, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $10,258 to $28,800 annually, with an average of $17,672/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 90%, with the highest reaching 95%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Mississippi's leading technology employers. For students seeking data science degrees in Mississippi, these top-ranked data science schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Best Master's Data Science Programs in Mississippi
Program Landscape
Mississippi offers 2 master's degree programs in data science, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Mississippi State, Mississippi College, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Mississippi earn a median salary of $82,450, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with C Spire, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $14,956/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Mississippi's data science schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
Mississippi State University
Best Doctoral Data Science Programs in Mississippi
Program Landscape
Mississippi is home to 1 doctoral programs in data science, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at Jackson State are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Mississippi PhD holders earning a median of $103,063, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like C Spire, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across Mississippi programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing data science degrees in Mississippi, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
Data Science Degree Costs & Tuition in Mississippi
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $9,620/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $24,050/year |
| Community college tuition | $2,405/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $57,720 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $14,430 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Data Science Students in Mississippi
State Aid Programs
Mississippi residents pursuing data science degrees have access to multiple financial aid pathways designed to reduce the cost of higher education. The Mississippi Eminent Scholars Grant is a merit-based award specifically for high-achieving Mississippi residents, providing direct support to students demonstrating academic excellence (Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning). In addition to state-specific programs, all students can access federal financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study opportunities (Federal Student Aid). These federal resources remain the largest source of education funding for undergraduate and graduate students nationwide.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond grants and federal aid, Mississippi's public universities and community colleges offer institutional scholarships tailored to data science and STEM students. Many institutions provide need-based and merit-based awards that can significantly offset tuition costs. Students should consult the financial aid offices at their chosen institution, whether at a research university like Mississippi State University or a community college like Itawamba Community College, to explore full funding packages. The College Scorecard provides transparent data on aid disbursement and net price by institution, enabling informed comparison of total cost of attendance across Mississippi's 15 institutions offering data science programs (IPEDS).
Data Science Degree ROI Calculator, Mississippi
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a data science degree in Mississippi. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Data Science Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a data science degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
+697%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
$1,289,731
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
6 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
$114,286
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Direct cost of the degree program
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Data Science Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Mississippi metro areas
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Jackson | $91K |
| Gulfport | $87K |
| Hattiesburg | $82K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Data Science Graduates in Mississippi
Find data science jobs in Mississippi. These major employers across Mississippi metro areas are actively hiring data science degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Data Science Jobs in Jackson
MSData Science Jobs in Gulfport
MSTransfer Pathways for Data Science Degrees in Mississippi
State Transfer System
Mississippi's 17 two-year institutions serve as essential entry points for students pursuing data science degrees, supported by the state's structured transfer system. The Mississippi Articulation and Transfer Tool facilitates seamless transitions from community colleges to four-year universities, ensuring that credits earned through associate degree programs directly apply toward bachelor's degrees. Community colleges like Itawamba Community College (12 completions, the state's top producer), Northwest Mississippi Community College (10 completions), and Copiah-Lincoln Community College (8 completions) offer strong data science and related coursework, allowing students to complete foundational prerequisites at lower tuition costs before transferring. Average community college tuition ranges from $2,700 to $3,500, compared to $8,642 average public university tuition (IPEDS).
How Transfers Work
Transfer-friendly pathways enable students to earn an associate degree in data science or a related field, then transition to bachelor's programs at Mississippi State University, Jackson State University, or University of Mississippi without losing credits. Many four-year institutions have dedicated transfer advisors and articulation agreements with community college partners, streamlining the application process. Students can pursue Data Analytics in Mississippi or Computer Science in Mississippi pathways as complementary specializations during their transfer journey. The Mississippi Articulation and Transfer Tool provides transparent course equivalency information, allowing students to plan transitions confidently. Federal student aid through Federal Student Aid supports both community college and university enrollment, making the multi-institution pathway financially accessible.
Why Pursue a Data Science Degree in Mississippi?
Industry & Workforce
Mississippi offers a growing landscape for data science education with 15 institutions currently offering programs across multiple degree levels (IPEDS). From associate degrees to doctoral programs, students can pursue data science credentials suited to their academic goals and timeline. The state's 19 four-year institutions and 17 two-year institutions provide flexible pathways to earning a degree, with average public in-state tuition at four-year universities standing at just $8,642, significantly below the national average (IPEDS). This affordability makes Mississippi an attractive option for students seeking quality education without excessive debt.
Salary Outlook
Top-ranked programs like Mississippi State University and Jackson State University lead the state's data science offerings, with graduation rates exceeding 91% at Mississippi State (College Scorecard). Mississippi's major employment hubs, including Jackson, Gulfport-Biloxi, and Hattiesburg, host significant employers like the University of Mississippi Medical Center and Walmart, creating real-world opportunities for data science graduates. Students exploring related fields can also investigate Data Analytics in Mississippi, Machine Learning in Mississippi, and Computer Science in Mississippi to build a comprehensive technical skill set. The state's commitment to supporting higher education through initiatives like the Mississippi Eminent Scholars Grant further enhances affordability for high-achieving residents.
Data Science Program Availability in Mississippi
Source: IPEDS 2024
Data Science Job Market & Salary Data in Mississippi
Employment Outlook
Mississippi's data science job market is experiencing steady growth, with opportunities expanding across multiple sectors and geographic regions. The state's major employment hubs are concentrated in key metropolitan areas including Jackson, Gulfport-Biloxi, and Hattiesburg, which serve as primary centers for data science talent demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, occupations related to data analysis and computational roles are increasingly prevalent in Mississippi's workforce. The Capital District region, centered on Jackson, represents the largest market for data professionals, driven by healthcare, government, and corporate headquarters. The Gulf Coast region around Gulfport-Biloxi offers emerging opportunities in tourism, gaming, and logistics sectors seeking data-driven decision-making capabilities.
Salaries by Metro
Entry and mid-level data science positions are becoming more accessible to Mississippi graduates, particularly those from the state's 15 institutions offering data science programs (IPEDS). The state's average public in-state tuition of $8,642 at four-year institutions makes data science education affordable compared to national alternatives. Mississippi's lower cost of living compared to coastal tech hubs means that entry-level salaries stretch further, making early-career positions competitive from a compensation perspective. Professionals seeking advanced roles should explore national best programs and online options to maximize career prospects. For comparative market insights, explore data science opportunities in California, Texas, and New York to benchmark Mississippi's market positioning.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Online vs On-Campus Data Science Programs in Mississippi
Online Programs
0 available in Mississippi
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Compare Data Science Programs in Other States
- Total Programs
- 25
- Median Tuition
- $5,800
- Total Programs
- 14
- Median Tuition
- $7,700
- Total Programs
- 40
- Median Tuition
- $16,500
- Total Programs
- 9
- Median Tuition
- $10,700
- Total Programs
- 180
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
- Total Programs
- 43
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
- Total Programs
- 77
- Median Tuition
- $8,700
- Total Programs
- 120
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
Data Science Degree Programs in Mississippi: FAQ
What are the best data science degree programs in Mississippi?
How much do data science degree programs cost in Mississippi?
What salary can data science degree graduates earn in Mississippi?
Are there online data science degree programs in Mississippi?
What companies hire data science degree graduates in Mississippi?
Is a data science degree program worth it in Mississippi?
How long do data science degree programs take in Mississippi?
What financial aid is available for data science degree students in Mississippi?
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Mississippi salary and employment data
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.