🥇
$65,656
Tuition/yr
96%
Grad rate
96.9
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best data science degree programs: Brown, Providence College, Rhode Island College
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $9,481 to $65,656/year
Rhode Island College offers the most affordable option at $9,481/yr
Data Science degree programs available: 2 master's, 2 doctoral in Rhode Island
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
Major employers: Fidelity Investments, CVS Health, Citizens Bank, FM Global
Tech hubs in Providence and Warwick
Hakia Research 2026
Data Science degree programs near 11+ cities across Rhode Island
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Rhode Island Data Science programs
We rank 10 accredited data science programs in Rhode Island 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 methodologyAre Data Science Degree Programs in Rhode Island Worth It?
Answer
$103,450
Yes. The best data science degree programs in Rhode Island deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $103,450 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $34,939/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Data Science Degree Rankings in Rhode Island
Compare the top-ranked Data Science programs in Rhode Island by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Data Science Programs in Rhode Island
6
Programs ranked
$38,410
Avg tuition/yr
66%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Rhode Island ranks among the nation's top destinations for data science education, with 6 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 1 public and 5 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Brown, Providence College, Rhode Island College, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Rhode Island data science programs earn a median salary of $87,933, 10% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Providence, Warwick, Cranston metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Fidelity Investments, CVS Health, Citizens Bank.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $9,481 to $65,656 annually, with an average of $38,410/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 66%, with the highest reaching 96%. 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 Rhode Island's leading technology employers. For students seeking data science degrees in Rhode Island, these top-ranked data science schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
#4
$39,792
Tuition/yr
53.4
Hakia Score
Show all 6 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Johnson & Wales University-Online | Providence, RI | Private | $13,365 | 13% | 36.0 |
Best Master's Data Science Programs in Rhode Island
2
Programs ranked
$39,886
Avg tuition/yr
96%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Rhode Island 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, Brown, U of Rhode Island, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Rhode Island earn a median salary of $103,450, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Providence, Warwick, Cranston creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Fidelity Investments, CVS Health, Citizens Bank 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 $39,886/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 Rhode Island's data science schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
🥇
$65,656
Tuition/yr
96%
Grad rate
96.8
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Data Science Programs in Rhode Island
2
Programs ranked
$39,886
Avg tuition/yr
96%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Rhode Island is home to 2 doctoral programs in data science, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at Brown, U of Rhode Island are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Rhode Island PhD holders earning a median of $129,313, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Providence, Warwick, Cranston region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Fidelity Investments, CVS Health, Citizens Bank.
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 Rhode Island programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing data science degrees in Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $34,939/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $87,348/year |
| Community college tuition | $8,735/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $209,636 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $52,408 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Data Science Students in Rhode Island
State Aid Programs
Rhode Island offers strong financial aid opportunities for data science students pursuing higher education. The state's flagship financial aid program, the Rhode Island Promise, covers full tuition at the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) for qualifying recent high school graduates. This initiative provides an affordable pathway for students beginning their data science education at the associate's level before transferring to a four-year institution. Additionally, the Rhode Island Transfer Agreements help seamless transfers from CCRI to state colleges and URI, allowing students to maximize their financial aid benefits while pursuing advanced degrees.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state-specific programs, data science students in Rhode Island can access federal financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which opens doors to grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. The U.S. Department of Education's Federal Student Aid portal provides comprehensive resources for understanding eligibility requirements and application timelines. Many Rhode Island institutions also offer merit-based scholarships and institutional aid packages. Students are encouraged to contact financial aid offices directly at their chosen institution to explore full-tuition scholarships, graduate assistantships, and employer-sponsored educational programs through major Rhode Island employers like Lifespan, CVS Health, and Care New England.
Institutional Scholarships
For graduate students, assistantship opportunities and research funding are often available through data science departments. Prospective students should review College Scorecard to compare net price and aid packages across Rhode Island institutions. The Rhode Island Office of the Postsecondary Commissioner maintains updated information on all state financial aid programs and requirements, ensuring students have access to current funding opportunities.
Data Science Degree ROI Calculator, Rhode Island
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a data science degree in Rhode Island. 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 Rhode Island metro areas
Providence$114K
Warwick$109K
Cranston$103K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Providence | $114K |
| Warwick | $109K |
| Cranston | $103K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Data Science Graduates in Rhode Island
Find data science jobs in Rhode Island. These major employers across Rhode Island metro areas are actively hiring data science degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Data Science Jobs in Providence
RICVS Health
healthcare
Citizens Financial Group
finance
Fidelity Investments
finance
Infosys
consulting
Data Science Jobs in Warwick
RIGTECH/IGT
gaming-tech
Amica Insurance
insurance
Transfer Pathways for Data Science Degrees in Rhode Island
State Transfer System
Rhode Island's transfer system is designed to help student progression from community colleges to four-year universities, creating flexible pathways into data science careers. The Rhode Island Transfer Agreements enable students to complete coursework at the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI), one of the state's 2 two-year institutions, and transfer credits seamlessly to institutions like University of Rhode Island, Rhode Island College, and other bachelor's degree-granting programs. This pathway is particularly valuable for students seeking affordable entry into data science education, as CCRI tuition is just $4,856, compared to public four-year in-state averages of $11,799. Students can complete general education and foundational mathematics and computer science courses at CCRI before advancing to upper-level data science coursework.
How Transfers Work
The Rhode Island Promise program further enhances access by covering tuition at CCRI for qualifying recent high school graduates, removing financial barriers to starting a data science pathway. Articulation agreements between CCRI and state colleges ensure that approved coursework transfers directly, preventing credit loss and reducing time to degree completion. Students should work closely with academic advisors at both their originating and receiving institutions to ensure proper course alignment with data science program requirements. Transfer students may also explore related programs in data analytics or computer science to customize their educational pathway. The Rhode Island Office of the Postsecondary Commissioner maintains current transfer agreements and can provide guidance on specific course articulations across all state institutions.
Why Pursue a Data Science Degree in Rhode Island?
Industry & Workforce
Rhode Island offers a strong ecosystem for data science education with 11 institutions offering programs across associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree levels (IPEDS). In 2023, the state produced 280 bachelor's degree completions, 132 master's completions, and 16 doctoral completions in data science, reflecting strong demand for skilled professionals in this field. Brown University leads the state with 338 total completions, establishing Rhode Island as a meaningful hub for data science talent development. Students can pursue their education at institutions ranging from community colleges to Ivy League universities, creating diverse pathways into the field.
Salary Outlook
The Providence-Warwick metropolitan area serves as a vibrant employment center, home to major employers including Lifespan, CVS Health, Brown University, and Care New England, all increasingly reliant on data science expertise. For cost-conscious students, Rhode Island College offers tuition at just $9,481, while the Community College of Rhode Island charges $4,856, making data science education accessible. Public in-state tuition across four-year institutions averages $11,799, well below the national average. Prospective students should also explore related programs like data analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence offered throughout the state, as well as benchmark themselves against national best programs and most affordable options nationally.
Data Science Program Availability in Rhode Island
7 Programs
Rhode Island offers 7 accredited data science programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Providence, Warwick, Cranston.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Data Science Job Market & Salary Data in Rhode Island
Employment Outlook
Rhode Island's data science job market is growing steadily, supported by a strong educational pipeline and diverse employer base. The state has 11 institutions offering data science programs across undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels, producing 280 bachelor's completions, 132 master's completions, and 16 doctoral completions annually (IPEDS). The Providence-Warwick metropolitan area serves as the primary hub for data science employment, with major cities including Providence, Warwick, Cranston, Pawtucket, and Newport offering concentrated job opportunities. For current salary data and occupational trends specific to Rhode Island, consult the Bureau of Labor Statistics state profile, which tracks data science and analytics positions across the state.
Salaries by Metro
The state's public universities offer competitive in-state tuition averaging $11,799 for four-year institutions, making Rhode Island an accessible entry point for data science careers (IPEDS). Programs range from affordable community college pathways starting at the Community College of Rhode Island to prestigious research-focused degrees at Brown University. Students interested in exploring adjacent fields may also investigate data analytics programs in Rhode Island or machine learning degrees, which often share employer networks and career pathways with data science positions.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Rhode Island$67,243$150,003
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Data Science Programs in Rhode Island
Online Programs
0 available in Rhode Island
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$31,445/yr$34,939/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 Massachusetts
- Total Programs
- 71
- Median Tuition
- $47,600
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Connecticut
- Total Programs
- 19
- Median Tuition
- $44,100
Best Data Science Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 180
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 43
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 77
- Median Tuition
- $8,700
Best Data Science Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 120
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 33
- Median Tuition
- $11,400
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Colorado
- Total Programs
- 22
- Median Tuition
- $13,900
Data Science Degree Programs in Rhode Island: FAQ
What are the best data science degree programs in Rhode Island?
The best data science degree programs in Rhode Island based on our methodology are: 1) Brown University (96% graduation rate), 2) Providence College, and 3) Rhode Island College. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Rhode Island offers 7 total accredited programs across 2 public and 5 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 6 bachelor's programs.
How much do data science degree programs cost in Rhode Island?
Data Science degree program costs in Rhode Island vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $34,939/year, while private institutions average $76,866/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $8,735/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $139,756 at public schools to $307,463 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 Rhode Island?
Data Science professionals in Rhode Island earn a median salary of $103,450, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $67,243, while senior roles exceed $150,003. Salaries vary by metro area: Providence ($113,795), Warwick ($108,623) 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 Rhode Island?
Yes, Rhode Island offers 0 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 various state universities. 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 Rhode Island?
Major Data Science employers in Rhode Island include Fidelity Investments, CVS Health, Citizens Bank, FM Global, Textron. The Providence and Warwick metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Rhode Island universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Rhode Island's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a data science degree program worth it in Rhode Island?
A data science degree program in Rhode Island offers strong ROI with a $103,450 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $34,939/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($116,898), 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 Rhode Island?
Standard completion times for data science degree programs in Rhode Island 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. Rhode Island community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Rhode Island university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for data science degree students in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island 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. Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island'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
Rhode Island 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.