Columbia University in the City of New York

How this program compares

Columbia University in the City of New York's MS in Computer Science – Data Science Track lists about $81K total tuition — about 89% above the $42.9K AI master's average (89th percentile in our data). It runs on a flexible schedule (on-campus).

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: A bachelor's degree in computer science, mathematics, statistics, or a related field is required, along with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and prerequisite coursework in programming, linear algebra, calculus, and probability. Relevant work experience or research background strengthens applications.

About This Program

This track integrates computer science with statistical modeling to prepare students for leadership roles in extracting valuable insights from complex datasets. Coursework concentrates on Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Data Science & Analytics. Most students complete it in about 1.5 years.

Budget planners should note $81K estimated total tuition (89th percentile among AI master's programs, above the $42.9K average). Applicants should weigh that premium against the program's outcomes and brand.

It is one of 56 AI-related programs we track in New York, of which about 43% offer an online option. On price, it comes in higher than about 75% of the New York programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $59.9K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as Data Scientist, with reported salaries around $120,000.

Build and deploy machine learning models for predictive analytics.

Career Outcomes

The MS in Computer Science – Data Science Track at Columbia University in the City of New York (New York, New York) is oriented toward Data Scientist hiring, with alumni reporting pay near $120,000. Its focus on Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Data Science & Analytics maps directly to how employers screen for specialized skills rather than generic degrees. Federal projections for this occupational area point to roughly 35% growth this decade — verify the current figure on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook before you rely on it.

• 1. Data Scientist
• 2. Machine Learning Engineer
• 3. Data Analyst
• 4. Big Data Engineer

What You'll Learn

• Build and deploy machine learning models for predictive analytics.
• Process and manage large-scale datasets using big data tools.
• Apply statistical methods to extract insights from complex data.
• Create effective data visualizations for technical and business audiences.

Curriculum Highlights

The structure includes core coursework in algorithms and machine learning, a capstone project, and interdisciplinary electives across various university departments.

Top Employers

Top employers include Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, and financial firms like JPMorgan Chase.

Admissions

Admission to Columbia University in the City of New York's MS in Computer Science – Data Science Track generally expects a bachelor's degree. The GRE is optional here — a growing norm among AI programs — so applicants can often lead with coursework, projects and recommendations instead. Deadlines, testing policies and funding change year to year, so confirm the current requirements on the official program page before applying.

Application Materials

• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Letters of Recommendation: 3
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Frequently Asked Questions