🥇
$54,760
Tuition/yr
80%
Grad rate
82.0
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best data science degree programs: Washington University in ..., U of Missouri-Kansas City, U of Missouri-St Louis
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $6,442 to $61,750/year
U of Central Missouri offers the most affordable option at $8,325/yr
Data Science degree programs available: 10 master's, 2 doctoral in Missouri
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
4 online data science degree programs in Missouri
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Major employers: Cerner, World Wide Technology, Bayer, Mastercard
Tech hubs in Kansas City and St. Louis
Hakia Research 2026
Data Science degree programs near 62+ cities across Missouri
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 26, 2026
How we ranked Missouri Data Science programs
We rank 33 accredited data science programs in Missouri 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.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodology$104,000
Are Data Science Degree Programs in Missouri Worth It?
Yes. The best data science degree programs in Missouri deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $104,000 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $21,596/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Data Science Degree Rankings in Missouri
Compare the top-ranked Data Science programs in Missouri by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Data Science Programs in Missouri
5
Programs ranked
$32,584
Avg tuition/yr
66%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Missouri ranks among the nation's top destinations for data science education, with 21 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 8 public and 13 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Washington University in ..., U of Missouri-Kansas City, U of Missouri-St Louis, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Missouri data science programs earn a median salary of $88,400, 10% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Kansas City, St. Louis metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Cerner, World Wide Technology, Bayer.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $6,442 to $61,750 annually, with an average of $21,596/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 80%, with the highest reaching 98%. 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 Missouri's leading technology employers. For students seeking data science degrees in Missouri, these top-ranked data science schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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Maryville University of Saint Louis
Saint Louis, MOPrivate nonprofit
$24,766
Tuition/yr
66%
Grad rate
68.0
Hakia Score
#5
University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis
Saint Louis, MOPrivate nonprofit
$31,950
Tuition/yr
62%
Grad rate
61.4
Hakia Score
Best Master's Data Science Programs in Missouri
3
Programs ranked
$15,339
Avg tuition/yr
63%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Missouri offers 10 master's degree programs in data science, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, U of Missouri-Kansas City, Washington University in ..., U of Central Missouri, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Missouri earn a median salary of $104,000, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Kansas City, St. Louis creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Cerner, World Wide Technology, Bayer 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 $20,909/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 Missouri's data science schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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$11,750
Tuition/yr
55%
Grad rate
74.1
Hakia Score
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Maryville University of Saint Louis
Saint Louis, MOPrivate nonprofit
$24,766
Tuition/yr
66%
Grad rate
64.8
Hakia Score
Data Science Degree Costs & Tuition in Missouri
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $21,596/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $53,990/year |
| Community college tuition | $5,399/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $129,576 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $32,394 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Data Science Students in Missouri
State Aid Programs
Missouri students pursuing data science degrees have access to multiple federal and state financial aid programs designed to reduce college costs. The foundation of federal aid begins with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), available through Federal Student Aid, which determines eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Once FAFSA is completed, Missouri residents attending public four-year institutions can apply for the Access Missouri Grant, a need-based program that awards up to $2,850 per year to eligible students (Missouri Department of Higher Education). This state-specific support significantly reduces out-of-pocket expenses and makes quality data science education more accessible across Missouri's diverse student population.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond grants, many of Missouri's top data science programs offer institutional scholarships and assistantships to qualified applicants. Students should contact their institution's financial aid office to inquire about program-specific scholarships, graduate assistantships, and merit-based awards. Public institutions in Missouri report average in-state tuition of $8,649, making state universities an affordable option when combined with Access Missouri Grants (Missouri Department of Higher Education). Additionally, students transferring from Missouri's community colleges can leverage the Missouri Core Transfer Curriculum (CORE 42), which guarantees transfer of 42 credit hours statewide, reducing overall time-to-degree and associated costs (Missouri Department of Higher Education). Comparing financial aid packages across schools like University of Missouri-Columbia and Missouri State University-Springfield can help students identify the most cost-effective pathway to their degree.
Data Science Degree ROI Calculator, Missouri
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a data science degree in Missouri. 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
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+697%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,289,731
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
6 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$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
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,325,139
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$120,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.1%
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 Missouri metro areas
Kansas City$114K
St. Louis$109K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Kansas City | $114K |
| St. Louis | $109K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Data Science Graduates in Missouri
Find data science jobs in Missouri. These major employers across Missouri metro areas are actively hiring data science degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Data Science Jobs in Kansas City
MOCerner/Oracle Health
healthtech
Garmin
tech
H&R Block
fintech
Sprint/T-Mobile
telecom
Data Science Jobs in St. Louis
MOBayer
pharma
Edward Jones
finance
World Wide Technology
tech
Mastercard
fintech
Boeing
aerospace
Transfer Pathways for Data Science Degrees in Missouri
State Transfer System
Missouri's streamlined transfer system makes it seamless for community college students to pursue data science degrees at four-year institutions. The Missouri Core Transfer Curriculum (CORE 42) guarantees that 42 credit hours of general education coursework transfers automatically between all Missouri public institutions and many private colleges. This statewide articulation agreement eliminates credit loss and reduces time-to-degree for transfer students. The state's 21 two-year institutions, including Saint Louis Community College, Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City, and Ozarks Technical Community College, serve as vital entry points for students seeking affordable pathways into data science. Associate's degree programs in data science and related STEM fields build foundational knowledge in mathematics, programming, and introductory data analysis before students transfer to bachelor's programs.
How Transfers Work
Community college students completing CORE requirements and associate's-level prerequisite coursework in mathematics and computer science are well-positioned to transfer directly into junior-year status at bachelor's programs. This pathway reduces overall tuition costs. With average public in-state tuition at $8,649 annually, two-year programs at community colleges offer significant savings compared to four-year programs. Successful transfer students can then complete bachelor's degrees at top-ranked programs such as University of Missouri-Columbia or University of Missouri-Kansas City, leveraging the credit they earned while attending more affordable institutions. The Missouri Department of Higher Education maintains a comprehensive transfer guide and articulation agreements to help this process.
Transfer Planning Tips
Many bachelor's programs also articulate with regional employer partnerships, creating bridge pathways into graduate education and careers. Students completing bachelor's degrees in data science can pursue master's programs at the same or different institutions. Several Missouri universities support part-time and online master's enrollment for working professionals, enabling continued education without interrupting careers. Transfer-friendly institutions credit prior coursework appropriately, and the Access Missouri Grant continues to support eligible transfer students. For detailed transfer agreements and course equivalencies, consult your community college's transfer specialist or explore related fields through computer science and data analytics transfer pathways.
Why Pursue a Data Science Degree in Missouri?
Industry & Workforce
Missouri offers a strong and growing landscape for data science education, with 39 institutions across the state offering data science programs at multiple degree levels (IPEDS). The state's higher education system produced 2,549 master's degree completions and 691 bachelor's degree completions in data science, reflecting strong industry demand and academic investment. From prestigious research universities to affordable community colleges, Missouri provides pathways for students at every educational level to enter this high-demand field.
Salary Outlook
Missouri's major metropolitan areas. St. Louis and Kansas City, serve as thriving tech hubs with significant employer presence. Leading companies including BJC HealthCare, SSM Health, Cerner, Walmart, and Express Scripts actively recruit data science talent, creating abundant career opportunities for graduates. Top-ranked institutions like Washington University in St. Louis, University of Missouri-Columbia, and University of Missouri-Kansas City are anchoring innovation ecosystems that connect students directly to industry. Public in-state tuition averages $8,649 at four-year institutions, making Missouri an economically attractive choice compared to national alternatives (College Scorecard).
Regional Tech Hubs
Students choosing data science in Missouri benefit from the state's commitment to educational access and mobility. The Missouri Core Transfer Curriculum (CORE 42) guarantees transfer of 42 credit hours statewide, enabling community college students to seamlessly transition to four-year programs. Additionally, the Access Missouri Grant provides need-based funding up to $2,850 annually at public institutions. For career advancement, explore related fields through our guides on data analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence programs throughout the state.
21 Programs
Data Science Program Availability in Missouri
Missouri offers 21 accredited data science programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Kansas City, St. Louis.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Data Science Job Market & Salary Data in Missouri
Employment Outlook
Missouri's data science job market is strong and expanding, with opportunities concentrated in major metropolitan areas including St. Louis, Kansas City, and Springfield. The state's diverse economy has created consistent demand for data science professionals across healthcare, technology, retail, and financial services sectors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Missouri continues to see growth in occupations requiring data analysis and computational skills. With 39 institutions offering data science programs across the state, Missouri produces a steady pipeline of qualified professionals to meet employer demand.
Salaries by Metro
The strongest job markets for data science graduates are located in the St. Louis and Kansas City metropolitan regions, where Fortune 500 companies and healthcare systems maintain significant operations. Entry-level positions start for candidates with bachelor's degrees, while advanced roles increasingly require master's-level credentials. Missouri's public four-year institutions charge an average in-state tuition of $8,649, making education more accessible than many neighboring states. Graduate programs are particularly strong, with 11 institutions offering master's degrees and 2,549 total completions recorded, significantly outpacing bachelor's degree production of 691 completions. Students should consult the College Scorecard for detailed employment outcomes by institution.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Missouri$67,600$150,800
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Data Science Programs in Missouri
Online Programs
4 available in Missouri
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$19,436/yr$21,596/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Data Science Programs in Other States
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Iowa
- Total Programs
- 25
- Median Tuition
- $32,800
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Illinois
- Total Programs
- 67
- Median Tuition
- $34,200
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Kentucky
- Total Programs
- 12
- Median Tuition
- $11,600
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Tennessee
- Total Programs
- 40
- Median Tuition
- $16,500
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Arkansas
- Total Programs
- 14
- Median Tuition
- $7,700
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Oklahoma
- Total Programs
- 18
- Median Tuition
- $6,000
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Kansas
- Total Programs
- 10
- Median Tuition
- $10,000
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Nebraska
- Total Programs
- 12
- Median Tuition
- $8,100
Data Science Degree Programs in Missouri: FAQ
What are the best data science degree programs in Missouri?
The best data science degree programs in Missouri based on our methodology are: 1) Washington University in St Louis (97% graduation rate), 2) University of Missouri-Kansas City, and 3) University of Missouri-St Louis. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Missouri offers 21 total accredited programs across 8 public and 13 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 21 bachelor's programs.
How much do data science degree programs cost in Missouri?
Data Science degree program costs in Missouri vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $21,596/year, while private institutions average $47,511/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $5,399/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $86,384 at public schools to $190,045 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can data science degree graduates earn in Missouri?
Data Science professionals in Missouri earn a median salary of $104,000, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $67,600, while senior roles exceed $150,800. Salaries vary by metro area: Kansas City ($114,400), St. Louis ($109,200) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online data science degree programs in Missouri?
Yes, Missouri offers 4 accredited online Data Science programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from Webster University and Southwest Baptist University. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire data science degree graduates in Missouri?
Major Data Science employers in Missouri include Cerner, World Wide Technology, Bayer, Mastercard, Square. The Kansas City and St. Louis metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Missouri universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Missouri's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a data science degree program worth it in Missouri?
A data science degree program in Missouri offers strong ROI with a $104,000 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $21,596/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($117,520), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do data science degree programs take in Missouri?
Standard completion times for data science degree programs in Missouri are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Missouri community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Missouri university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for data science degree students in Missouri?
Missouri data science degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Missouri state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Missouri's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Missouri salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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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.