Old Dominion University

How this program compares

Budget-wise, $18.6K puts this master's program at the 20th percentile on cost — roughly 57% below the $42.9K average across 394 comparable listings. It is one of the 54% of programs in our database offered fully or partly online.

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required. Applicants should demonstrate foundational knowledge in statistics or mathematics and programming; some programs may waive prerequisites or require completion upon admission.[1][2

About This Program

This multi-disciplinary graduate program provides the technical knowledge and skills to develop statistical models for data-driven decision-making. Coursework concentrates on Machine Learning and Data Science & Analytics. Most students complete it in about 1.5 years.

At roughly $18.6K total, Old Dominion University's MS in Data Science & Analytics sits below the $42.9K average among AI master's programs we track — the 20th percentile on price. That makes it one of the more affordable options for students weighing return on investment.

It is one of 14 AI-related programs we track in Virginia, of which about 71% offer an online option. On price, it comes in cheaper than about 71% of the Virginia programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $32.8K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as Data Scientist, with reported salaries around $95,000.

Apply statistical inference, hypothesis testing, and probability models to real-world data analysis problems.

Career Outcomes

The MS in Data Science & Analytics at Old Dominion University (Norfolk, Virginia) is oriented toward Data Scientist hiring, with alumni reporting pay near $95,000. Its focus on Machine Learning 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 36% growth this decade — verify the current figure on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook before you rely on it.

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

What You'll Learn

• Apply statistical inference, hypothesis testing, and probability models to real-world data analysis problems
• Build and evaluate supervised and unsupervised machine learning models including neural networks and deep learning techniques
• Design data pipelines for collecting, cleaning, integrating, and processing large datasets using modern tools and platforms
• Communicate data-driven insights effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders through visualization and storytelling

Curriculum Highlights

The structure features foundational courses in data science, big data processing, and discipline-specific scientific and theoretical concepts.

Top Employers

Top employers in data science and analytics include major technology firms like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft; financial institutions; healthcare organizations; and consulting firms like Deloitte and McKinsey.

Admissions

Admission to Old Dominion University's MS in Data Science & Analytics generally expects a master of science (ms). The GRE is not required 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: 2–3
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Frequently Asked Questions