15 Best Master’s in Data Science Programs with No GRE in 2025

Getting a master’s in data science without GRE has become easier as the job market just needs more data scientists. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects data science jobs will grow by 36% from 2023 to 2033. Are you worried about studying for another standardized test while managing work and other commitments?

Good news – you have many options to choose from. Recent data shows that 1,400 schools out of 2,100 accredited US universities with graduate programs don’t ask for GRE or GMAT scores anymore. Harvard University, Yale University, and University of Washington have dropped this requirement. Students can now choose part-time or online programs without worrying about GRE scores. UC Berkeley, University of San Francisco, and Northeastern University have also removed this requirement for admission.

This detailed guide explains the 15 best data science master’s programs that don’t need GRE scores for admission. We picked these programs based on their reputation, curriculum quality, and career outcomes to help you choose the right path in this faster-growing field.

1. Yale University

GRE Required: No

Yale University leads data science education with its prestigious Master’s in Statistics and Data Science program. This popular program in New Haven, Connecticut, gives professionals advanced data science training without GRE requirements.

Program overview

Yale’s Statistics and Data Science program covers fundamental areas like statistical theory, probability theory, information theory, and machine learning. Students study a variety of disciplines including bioinformatics, classification, data mining, network science, and optimization. The program blends theoretical foundations with practical applications to prepare graduates for research and industry positions.

The department changed its name from Statistics to Statistics and Data Science (DS2). Yale became one of the first schools in the country to include “data science” in a department title. This change shows Yale’s dedication to growing fields in data analytics.

Admission requirements

Yale made the application process easier by making the GRE test optional for Statistics and Data Science applicants. The GRE Mathematics Subject Test is also optional. International students need TOEFL iBT or IELTS Academic scores if English isn’t their native language.

Students don’t need English test scores if they earned (or will earn) an undergraduate degree from a school where English is the main language of instruction, with at least three years of study. The program accepts only a few students each year – about 40 offers from nearly 1,000 applications.

Key admission requirements include:

• Strong mathematical background (advanced calculus, linear algebra, probability theory)
• At least one course providing an introduction to mathematical statistics
• Undergraduate major in statistics, mathematics, computer science, or related field

Tuition and duration

Full-time tuition for 2024-2025 at Yale Graduate School of Arts and Sciences costs $49,500. Master’s students must pay tuition or get funding through their program or external sources. Yale stands out by not charging common extra fees for technology, library use, or gym access.

A single master’s student needs about $30,875 for nine months of living expenses. This brings the total education cost to $80,375 per academic year.

Unique features

Yale’s program shines through its integrated approach. The curriculum builds both mathematical and practical foundations through courses in computational skills, data science methods, and mathematical theory. Yale shows its commitment by expanding faculty with up to eight new professors.

Students can take courses across different areas including core probability and statistics, computational skills, data science methods, and mathematical foundations. This flexibility helps graduates develop skills they can use in many different fields.

The program got substantial student interest, with many applied math majors excited about the data science curriculum. This enthusiasm shows how valuable data science skills are becoming in organizations that collect or use data.

2. Northwestern University

GRE Required: No

Northwestern University provides two distinct pathways toward a master’s in data science without GRE requirements. The university has established itself as a leader in data science education by offering programs that align with different learning priorities.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Machine Learning and Data Science (MLDS) program at Northwestern follows a cohort model and accepts about 55 students each fall. Students complete this full-time, on-campus program through a detailed curriculum spanning five quarters (15 months).

Northwestern’s Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS) program caters to students who need more flexibility with part-time online and accelerated options. Both programs teach three programming languages: Python, R, and Go, which students can focus on based on their chosen specialization. Students learn to employ relational, document, and graph database systems built on open-source platforms.

Admission requirements

The MLDS and MSDS programs don’t require GRE or GMAT scores. All the same, Northwestern maintains selective admissions standards that include:

• Minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Three letters of recommendation
• Personal statement
• Resume or CV

International students must achieve a minimum TOEFL score of 95 or IELTS score of 7.5 unless they have earned a degree from an institution where English serves as the primary language of instruction.

Tuition and duration

The MLDS program’s tuition for 2025-2026 runs $22,973 per quarter plus fees over five quarters. The part-time online MSDS costs $5,098 per course ($62,736 total). Students in the accelerated MSDS program pay $15,900 per quarter ($63,600 total) for four quarters.

Students need to budget an additional $5,571 for health insurance coverage from September 2024 through August 2025.

Unique features

Northwestern’s programs stand out through their specialized focus areas. Students select from five specializations: Analytics and Modeling, Analytics Management, Artificial Intelligence, Data Engineering, or Technology Entrepreneurship.

MLDS students start with a two-week bootcamp that builds solid foundations in core concepts. The program’s STEM designation allows international students to qualify for OPT visa extensions after graduation.

The program’s success speaks through its results – every MLDS graduate has secured job offers within three months of completing the program, which demonstrates its effectiveness in preparing students for professional success.

3. Vanderbilt University

GRE Required: No

Vanderbilt University offers a remarkable Master’s in Data Science program in Nashville, Tennessee. The program stands out with its hands-on approach to data science education and deep industry connections.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Data Science at Vanderbilt spans 4 semesters with 16 courses (48 credits) and ends with a capstone project. Students learn through three core sequences: computational skills, statistical principles, and domain-specific knowledge. This integrated approach helps students adapt to the ever-changing data science field and builds their critical thinking and communication skills. Nashville, the program’s home, ranks as the second hottest job market in 2024 according to The Washington Post and stands third among the best cities for young professionals.

Admission requirements

Students can now apply without GRE scores as Vanderbilt has made it optional. The university accepts free applications through five rounds:

• Round 1 (January 15) – Priority deadline for scholarships
• Round 2 (February 15)
• Round 3 (March 15)
• Round 4 (April 15)
• Round 5 (May 15) – Final deadline

Applicants need a minimum 3.0 GPA and must show programming expertise. The application package should include three recommendation letters, a statement of purpose (maximum 3 pages), and a resume showcasing technical experience. International students must prove English proficiency with TOEFL (minimum 100), IELTS (minimum 7.0), or Duolingo (minimum 130) scores.

Tuition and duration

The 2025-2026 academic year costs $2,419 per credit hour. Students also pay for health insurance ($3,975 for 2023-2024), a one-time transcript fee ($100), student services ($305 per semester), and health services ($387 per semester). The university supports students through scholarships that cover 25-100% of tuition. Additional funding comes from Women in Technology of Tennessee (WiTT) and Army ROTC.

Unique features

The program excels with its cross-disciplinary approach that advances AI and data science through innovative education and community projects. Students without quantitative backgrounds can join preparatory bootcamps. The curriculum balances computational rigor with flexibility for students from different educational paths. Nashville’s data science job market grows faster than the qualified workforce in Middle Tennessee. Students gain valuable experience through projects with businesses, universities, and non-profits.

4. Columbia University

GRE Required: No

Columbia University stands out as a top choice for students who want to pursue a master’s in data science without GRE requirements. The program has earned recognition for its technical excellence and strong industry connections.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Data Science at Columbia runs for 18 months and builds the foundations of computer science and statistics skills. Students can specialize in areas like cybersecurity, business analytics, or smart cities through advanced courses and research. The first semester includes core courses in probability and statistics, machine learning, algorithms, and deep learning. Students can skip certain core requirements to take more advanced electives. The program helps students apply theoretical knowledge to ground problems, which prepares them for success after graduation.

Admission requirements

Columbia has made GRE scores completely optional for data science applicants starting with the 2025 admission cycle. The requirements include:

• Undergraduate degree from an accredited institution
• Prior quantitative coursework (calculus, linear algebra)
• Introductory computer programming background
• Three recommendation letters
• Personal statement
• Resume/CV

Students from other countries must show English proficiency through TOEFL iBT, IELTS, PTE Academic, or Duolingo English Test. This requirement doesn’t apply to those with undergraduate degrees from institutions where English is the main language.

Tuition and duration

The first year costs $51,680 in tuition. Students should plan for about $18,274 in living expenses that cover accommodation, food, books, and utilities. The 18-month program structure lets students finish their studies and gain expertise in their chosen specialization.

Unique attributes

The program’s capstone course stands out as students team up to tackle complex ground challenges sponsored by faculty or industry partners. Recent projects have tackled interesting problems like analyzing informal speech, predicting insurance payments, speeding up drug discovery, and finding the best spots for electric vehicle charging stations. The program boasts excellent job placement rates with graduates landing roles at leading companies. Students can join many events, clubs, interest groups, and professional development sessions with speakers from the industry.

5. University of Southern California (USC)

GRE Required: No

The University of Southern California has an outstanding master’s in data science program without GRE requirements. Students learn to tackle data challenges across industries.

Overview

USC’s Master of Science in Applied Data Science wants to transform students from different backgrounds into skilled data scientists. The program gives you the essential data science techniques, Python programming skills, database knowledge, big data infrastructure experience, and machine learning capabilities. Students master data management, visualization, mining, and artificial intelligence to solve real-life problems. The curriculum begins with simple concepts and advances to sophisticated analytics tools through projects. This approach helps students who don’t have much computer science experience.

Admission requirements

USC has dropped the GRE requirement for its 2026 applications. The efficient application process needs:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in engineering, statistics, mathematics, computer science, economics, information technology, physics, or related fields
• Transcripts
• Resume/CV
• Personal statement
• Two letters of recommendation (highly recommended)

International students must prove their English skills unless they graduated from a university where English was the main teaching language.

Tuition costs

Students usually finish the program in 18-24 months. Tuition for the 2025 academic year costs $45,774 for international students. Students should budget for health insurance ($2,606) and housing and meals ($13,109). The total yearly cost comes to about $61,489.

Unique features

USC’s program stands out with its hands-on approach to data analytics that prepares students for real-life challenges. Students can choose from many elective tracks and participate in a professional practicum to specialize in their preferred analytics areas. USC ranks second among private universities in placing graduates at top tech companies. Program graduates work at Fortune 100 companies like Apple, McKinsey, Google, Meta, and Amazon, as well as companies in Los Angeles’s thriving “Silicon Beach” tech ecosystem.

6. University of Virginia

GRE Required: No

The University of Virginia, home to the nation’s first standalone School of Data Science, offers an exceptional master’s in data science program without GRE requirements. This program combines rigorous technical education with hands-on learning experiences.

Overview

UVA’s online M.S. in Data Science (MSDS) takes 20 months to complete in five semesters. Working professionals can benefit from this well-structured program. Students work with experts in a variety of domains to become skilled at analytics and machine learning while building end-to-end pipelines. The curriculum covers Bayesian Machine Learning, Exploratory Text Analytics, Linear Models, Programming for Data Science, and Statistical Learning. Students learn theory in the classroom and apply their knowledge through team-based projects.

Admission requirements

UVA has simplified its admission process by removing standardized testing requirements. Students don’t need to submit GRE or GMAT scores. The application requirements include:

• Undergraduate degree from an accredited institution
• Four prerequisites: single variable calculus, linear algebra, introductory statistics, and programming
• Unofficial transcripts of all post-secondary academic records
• Resume showing activities beyond academic coursework
• $85 application fee

International students must prove English proficiency with TOEFL (minimum 100) or IELTS (minimum 7.0) scores.

Tuition

Online MSDS students pay $48,807 total for tuition and fees. Residential students have different costs. Virginia residents pay about $77,201 total ($39,159 tuition, $4,333 fees, $33,709 living expenses). Non-Virginia residents pay approximately $92,538 total ($53,754 tuition, $5,075 fees, $33,709 living expenses). Students must pay a $500 non-refundable tuition deposit after acceptance.

Unique features

The program’s cohort-based model helps students build strong peer relationships during their five semesters. Students apply their classroom knowledge to ground challenges through capstone research projects sponsored by companies of all sizes. The program’s success shows in its graduates’ average post-graduation salary of $109,000. Qualified students can receive need-based fellowship scholarships up to $10,000. This online master’s in data science program offers prestige and potential affordability without requiring GRE scores.

7. Tufts University

GRE Required: No

Tufts University’s Master’s in Data Science program with no GRE requirement combines hands-on skills with theory through shared expertise between departments at its Medford, Massachusetts campus.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS) at Tufts emerges from collaboration between Computer Science and Electrical and Computer Engineering departments. Students learn core statistics and machine learning principles that help them become skilled at various data analysis techniques. The program builds expertise in data infrastructure systems, analysis interfaces, computational aspects, and real-life applications. Students take core courses in probabilistic systems analysis, machine learning, big data, and statistics. This preparation allows graduates to work on projects that cross multiple disciplines with data analytics components.

Admission requirements

Students who have earned or will earn degrees from U.S. or Canadian institutions don’t need GRE scores. The program needs a Bachelor of Science degree in a STEM field. Students with non-STEM bachelor’s degrees can start with a Certificate in Data Science that builds program foundations in one extra term. The application package should have a resume/CV, personal statement, transcripts, and three recommendation letters.

Tuition and length

Students must complete 32 credits at $1,697 per credit hour, bringing total tuition to $54,304. The program works for both full-time and part-time students. Students can finish the online MSDS in under two years. Additional costs include health insurance ($3,755) and a health fee ($958).

Unique features

The program stands out with its cross-disciplinary approach and a two-course Capstone Project where students apply data science principles. Students solve ground problems through courses in machine learning, optimization, statistical decision-making, information theory, and data visualization. Graduates earn an average salary of $108,000+ with job growth projected at 35% between 2022-2032. Faculty research in advanced topics like computer vision and machine learning keeps students at the vanguard of data science.

8. University of California San Diego

GRE Required: No

UC San Diego lets you earn a master’s in data science without GRE through its prestigious Halıcıoğlu Data Science Institute (HDSI) and partner departments.

Program

UCSD gives you multiple data science program options with both on-campus and online formats. The on-campus Master of Science in Data Science program provides detailed training with foundational courses, core curriculum, and electives. Working professionals can choose the 100% online Master of Data Science (MDS) program to advance their careers. Students can finish this program in just 18 months (5 quarters). Both programs teach you essential data science techniques. Tenure-track faculty from Computer Science & Engineering and the Halıcıoğlu Data Science Institute lead all courses.

Admission requirements

UCSD has waived the GRE requirement for all data science graduate programs starting Fall 2025. You’ll need these items to apply:

• Statement of purpose showing your preparation and potential
• CV/resume with your academic history and relevant experience
• Three recommendation letters
• Unofficial transcripts uploaded to the application portal

International students must prove English language skills through TOEFL or IELTS. This requirement doesn’t apply if you have a degree from an English-speaking institution. You must apply by December 4, 2024, for Fall 2025 admission.

Tuition

The online MDS program costs about $35,000 in total. Students typically pay $7,000 per quarter over five quarters. The 2025-2026 tuition rate is $780 per unit for the 40-unit program. The cost stays the same whether you’re from California, another state, or another country. Merit-based scholarships can cover up to 20% of your tuition after acceptance.

Unique features

The program includes a 10-week capstone research project where you solve real-life challenges. Online students can join live faculty review sessions or watch recordings that fit their schedule and time zone. The curriculum builds expertise in three areas: foundational courses, core data science principles, and specialized electives. After graduating, you’ll join an outstanding network of alumni working at tech giants and startups in California’s thriving “Silicon Beach” ecosystem.

9. University of Wisconsin-Madison

GRE Required: No

University of Wisconsin-Madison offers a master’s in data science program without GRE requirements. Students can choose from multiple delivery formats that suit their needs.

Program details

Two distinctive data science master’s pathways await students at the University of Wisconsin. Students can access a 100% online master’s program through a learning management system that lets them study at their convenience. The curriculum builds on computer science, mathematics, statistics, management, and communication. Students seeking an on-campus experience can opt for the residential MS in Data Science, which combines the expertise of Statistics and Computer Sciences departments. Both paths need 10 courses to graduate, and students finish with a capstone project in their final semester.

Admissions

Wisconsin has removed the GRE requirement from all data science graduate programs. Students must meet these key admission criteria:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university with at least a 3.0 GPA
• Coursework in elementary statistics and introductory computer programming
• Resume showing relevant experience
• Personal statement up to 1,000 words explaining your motivation

Students with less than a 3.0 GPA might qualify for provisional admission based on an all-encompassing review.

Tuition and time to completion

The online Master of Data Science total cost runs about $35,000, with each unit costing $780 in the 40-unit program. Students typically graduate in 1.5 to 2 years (3-4 semesters). UW-Madison graduates can choose an accelerated one-year path if they qualify. Working professionals benefit from part-time options.

Unique features

The program’s capstone experience stands out as students learn ground skills through fieldwork projects. Many complete these projects at their workplace or with external organizations. The program has grown remarkably, adding 914 undergraduate data science students between 2019 and 2022—more than any other major at the university. UW-Madison’s statistics faculty members are leaders in their field who make data science engaging and available to students. Their graduates continue to achieve great success in academia and industry.

10. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

GRE Required: No

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign launched its Master’s in Data Science program without GRE requirements back in 2016, making it one of the pioneers in this approach. UIUC has established itself as a leader by making data science education more available through this progressive decision.

Program overview

The Master of Computer Science in Data Science (MCS-DS) program needs students to complete 32 credit hours of graduate coursework through eight comprehensive courses. Students learn crucial subjects like machine learning, data mining, data visualization, and cloud computing. The Coursera platform delivers lectures while Illinois faculty and teaching assistants provide individual support to help students succeed in their assignments, projects, and exams. The Siebel School of Computing and Data Science collaborates with other campus departments to offer this program.

Admission

The MCS-DS program at UIUC has never asked for GRE scores. Students need to meet these requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
• Background in object-oriented programming, data structures, algorithms, linear algebra, and statistics/probability
• GPA of 3.2/4.0 or higher (recommended)
• Application with optional letters of recommendation

Students who complete an Illinois degree in CS, CS+X, Mathematics & CS, Statistics & CS, Computer Engineering or a CS minor get guaranteed admission if they meet specific GPA requirements.

Tuition

Out-of-state residents pay about $24,128 for the complete program. The university classifies tuition under “Grad Engineering & Engineering Related rate”. Cloud computing courses need extra fees for using the Amazon Web Services platform.

Unique attributes

UIUC’s data science programs focus on bringing different fields together. The X + Data Science (X+DS) degrees let students mix data science with other subjects. These programs need fewer technical prerequisites than standard computer science or statistics degrees, which opens doors for students from various backgrounds. Students can finish their core data science courses in the first 3-5 semesters, then move on to advanced specialization.

11. University of Rochester

GRE Required: No

The University of Rochester offers a strong interdisciplinary master’s in data science program without GRE requirements through its Goergen Institute for Data Science. The program balances theoretical foundations with real-life applications in multiple fields.

Program overview

Rochester’s Master of Science in Data Science needs 30 credits. Students with backgrounds in science, engineering, mathematics, or business can apply. You can complete the curriculum in two to three semesters of full-time study. Graduates work in technology, healthcare, academia, research, finance, and manufacturing. The core requirements take 16 credits and cover computational statistics, statistical machine learning, data mining, and database systems. Students work in teams on a practicum that solves real-life business problems. They also learn about ethical issues in data science.

Admission requirements

Good news for prospective students – the University of Rochester doesn’t require GRE scores for data science applicants. About half the applicants submit GRE scores, with a small advantage in admission rates. The application needs:

• Bachelor’s degree (STEM field preferred but not required)
• Three letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose (1-3 pages)
• Resume/CV highlighting relevant experience
• Academic transcripts
• $30 application fee

International applicants need to prove English proficiency through TOEFL (minimum 100), IELTS (minimum 7), or Duolingo (minimum 120) scores.

Tuition and duration

The complete Master of Science in Data Science program costs $65,600 for 32 credit hours based on 2024-25 rates. SAS/Hajim courses cost $205 per credit hour, while Simon School courses cost $231. Students must pay a non-refundable $150 deposit after admission. Most students finish the program in 12-18 months. Full-time students often get partial merit-based scholarships that cover about 33% of tuition costs.

Standout features

The program’s standout feature is its team-based practicum. Students tackle real-life problems for sponsoring organizations. This final presentation serves as the exit exam. Students can get paid summer internships through New York State’s Center of Excellence in Data Science. Research opportunities include NIH-funded genomics fellowships and assistantships at the university’s medical center. Recent graduates earn an average salary of $103,000 within six months after finishing the program.

12. Harvard University

GRE Required: No

Harvard University’s master’s in data science program combines academic excellence with hands-on experience through its School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS). Students can pursue this program without GRE requirements. The program’s innovative approach equips future data scientists with thorough training.

Program details

Computer Science and Statistics faculties jointly lead the Data Science master’s program at Harvard. They emphasize the field’s interdisciplinary nature as it grows faster. Students learn statistical modeling, machine learning, optimization, and large data set analysis. The curriculum focuses on data analysis that others can replicate, team-based problem-solving, and data science ethics. Students need to finish 12 courses, which takes at least three semesters (1.5 academic years) on campus.

Admission requirements

Harvard’s Data Science master’s program doesn’t accept GRE scores. Though no formal prerequisites exist, successful candidates should know calculus, linear algebra, differential equations, probability, statistical inference, and programming (Python or R). Harvard welcomes students from various academic fields due to data science’s broad scope. Students can apply through Harvard’s Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences by choosing “Engineering and Applied Sciences” and “SM Data Science”.

Tuition and duration

Students pay $65,536 for their first year and $32,768 for their second year’s single term. Part-time students have course-based payment options: $8,192 for one course, $16,384 for two courses, $24,576 for three courses, and $32,768 for four courses. Students often use loans, savings, family support, grants, fellowships, and scholarships to fund their education.

Special features

Harvard stands out with its emphasis on practical research projects. Most courses test students through final projects instead of traditional exams. Students work on real-life projects with industry partners like Spotify and the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority during their capstone experience. The Mignone Center for Career Success helps students secure internships and build professional networks.

13. University of Washington

GRE Required: No

The University of Washington’s Master’s in Data Science program sits in the heart of Seattle’s bustling tech scene. Students can connect directly with industry giants like Microsoft, Amazon, and Google.

Program overview

UW’s Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS) gives you the technical skills to turn large, complex data sets into applicable information. The program brings together six top-ranked departments: Applied Mathematics, Biostatistics, Computer Science & Engineering, Human Centered Design & Engineering, Information School, and Statistics. Students need 45 credits to graduate—eight core courses (40 credits) and a two-quarter capstone project (5 credits). The curriculum covers statistical modeling, data management, machine learning, visualization, software engineering, research design, and data ethics. Python and R serve as the main programming languages.

Admission requirements

UW dropped the GRE requirement in 2018. This change led to better diversity—women enrollment jumped from 28% to 58%, and underrepresented minorities increased from 4% to 6%. Fall 2025 applications are due January 7 for international students and January 14 for domestic students. The core team looks for:

• A four-year bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA minimum in the final two years
• Strong computer science and mathematics background
• Two short essays and a 90-second video statement
• Unofficial transcripts and a one-page resume
• Two recommendation letters
• International students must prove English proficiency (TOEFL 106+, DuoLingo 125+, or IELTS 7.5+)

Tuition rates and program length

The program costs $1,185 per credit for 2025-26, bringing the total to $53,325. Students pay extra quarterly fees: $338 for part-time and $423 for full-time. You can choose between full-time (1.5 years) or part-time (2.5 years) study. Full-time students take two courses each quarter (about 40 hours weekly). Part-time students take one course (about 20 hours weekly). The tuition stays the same for all students, whatever their residency status.

Special features

Evening courses near campus make the program available to working professionals. Students move through their courses as a cohort and build strong professional networks across industries. Teams work on real-life challenges for external organizations during their capstone project. UW ranks #7 in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Global Universities rankings, which helps graduates stand out in the job market.

14. Kansas State University

GRE Required: No

Kansas State University offers a practical master’s in data science program without GRE requirements. The central campus location connects students with opportunities in international industries and agricultural sectors.

Program overview

The M.S. in Data Analytics combines data science and analysis skills with business management principles. Students learn to interpret data and communicate its meaning effectively. The program offers two concentrations: Data Science or Applied Analytics. Students become skilled at using various tools and languages including:

• Python, R, SQL, Stata, Tableau, and PowerBI
• Cloud computing environments such as AWS and Azure

Students need 30 credit hours with a minimum 3.0 GPA to graduate.

Admission requirements

K-State doesn’t require GMAT/GRE scores for data analytics programs. Students with GPAs below 3.0 can receive probationary admission but must maintain a 3.0 GPA in their first 9 credit hours (3 classes). The program welcomes students with strong quantitative skills. Domestic students can apply by July 15 for fall, December 15 for spring, and May 1 for summer terms.

Tuition and length

The program follows the university’s “Grad Engineering & Engineering Related rate” structure. Online data analytics master’s costs range from $578.04 to $840.84 per credit hour. Students need all 30 credit hours to complete their degree. The program accepts up to 9 transfer credit hours from accredited universities.

Unique features

K-State’s strategic location creates valuable career connections. Graduates work at major companies like John Deere, COMCAST, Altamira Tech Corporation, USAA, and Blue Cross Blue Shield. Recent graduates report starting salaries between $60,000 and $150,000. The Department of Computer Science conducts active research in big data, focusing on health, agriculture, and ecology. The university supports student entrepreneurs through its Institute for Commercialization, Olathe Innovation Accelerator, and Technology Development Institute.

15. George Washington University

GRE Required: No

George Washington University’s master’s in data science program without GRE requirements is a 10-year-old collaboration between multiple departments. Students get a well-rounded education in Washington, D.C.’s dynamic professional environment.

Program overview

GW’s Data Science Program prepares students to work with data in physical and social sciences. Students learn to handle big data effectively. The program combines techniques from statistics, computer science, and mathematics. Students learn to extract useful insights from large data sets and develop their problem-solving and communication abilities. The MS in Data Science needs 30 credits. Core courses include Introduction to Data Science, Data Warehousing, Introduction to Data Mining, Machine Learning I, Visualization of Complex Data, and a capstone project.

Admission requirements

GW doesn’t need GRE scores from data science applicants. The application package must include:

• Two academic letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose (250-500 words) that explains academic goals and research interests
• Transcripts from every college and university attended
• International students need TOEFL (minimum 80), IELTS (minimum 6.0), or PTE Academic (minimum 53) scores

Tuition and duration

The 2025-2026 academic year costs $2,195 per credit hour. Students pay one-time fees: an $80 application fee and $495 matriculation fee. Full-time students who take 9 credit hours each semester pay about $19,755 per semester.

Unique features

GW’s strong alliances with startups, companies, and agencies in Washington D.C. make it special. These connections help students find internships and jobs at Amazon, Booz Allen Hamilton, Capitol One, and federal agencies. The program ends with a data science capstone where students use their knowledge to solve real-life problems. Each student works with a dedicated Data Science Career Coach who offers individual-specific guidance sessions.

Start Your Data Science Degree Without a GRE Today

Data science education keeps evolving and is available to more people as prestigious universities remove standardized testing barriers. This piece highlights 15 outstanding Masters in Data Science programs that don’t require GRE scores for 2025 admission. These programs include Ivy League institutions like Harvard and Yale and public research powerhouses such as University of Washington and UC San Diego.

The programs share some notable patterns. Most institutions have found that GRE scores don’t predict student success in data science fields. Many programs give you options to learn online, hybrid, or in-person based on your priorities. Almost all programs focus on hands-on, project-based learning through capstone experiences with real-life applications.

Program costs vary by a lot, from about $24,000 at UIUC to over $80,000 at Yale. Many schools provide merit-based scholarships to help with these expenses. Students typically complete these programs in 18-24 months, with faster and part-time options based on their work commitments.

Data science graduates enjoy excellent job prospects. Northwestern’s program boasts 100% job placement within three months of graduation. Other programs report average starting salaries above $100,000. This strong market just needs to match the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ projection of 35% growth in data science positions through 2032.

Your ideal program choice depends on location, specialization options, format, and budget. Each program brings unique benefits – Yale’s integrated approach, Harvard’s industry collaborations, and USC’s Silicon Beach connections stand out.

These programs need transcripts, recommendation letters, personal statements, and proven quantitative skills. While GRE scores are optional or not required, strong performance in mathematics, statistics, and programming courses will boost your application chances.

Now is the perfect time to start your data science education. You can focus on building relevant skills instead of preparing for standardized tests. Look through these options to find a program that matches your career goals and learning style. Check application deadlines and start preparing your materials. Your future in this faster-growing field is waiting.